Jumping up
My dog jumps up at people, especially when saying hello.
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First, quickly: does any of these apply?
If so, we’ll show you where to find the right help.
Does he growl or snap when he jumps up at people?
Has he ever knocked someone over or injured them while jumping up, for example a child or an older person?
Please answer all the questions.
What helps today:
How to help: turn away, then say hello
The dog jumps up at the person to say hello. The person calmly turns away and folds their arms. As soon as all four paws are on the floor, the person greets the dog calmly at its level with a treat. If the dog jumps up again, the person stands up and turns away again.
- When visitors come: lead on or a baby gate before the door opens.
- If he jumps up: calmly turn away and fold your arms. No look, no word.
- When all four paws are on the floor: now there’s attention, calmly and at his level.
- Ask your visitors to greet him only once he is calm, or to put a treat on the floor instead of bending down.
- Children visiting: better a baby gate or a lead until he has calmed down.
- Pushing or telling off is attention too, and tends to make him even more excited.
Why this happens
Dogs like to greet each other close to the face, and we are a long way up. Jumping up pays off when it gets attention, and that includes telling off, pushing away and touching.
Practise for the long term
- Greeting with four paws on the floorSaying hello without jumping up
- Waiting at the doorThe door opens when your dog waits calmly
- Relaxing on the blanketA blanket that means “Here you can switch off”
When to see a professional?
If it doesn’t get better, starts suddenly or worries you: a professional can look at your dog. An app can’t do that.
Where to find helpAs of: October 2026