Placing the front paws or body onto a person, object, door, or surface, often during greetings or excitement.
Common Signs
- Front Paws on People
- Leaping
- Repeated Greeting Jumps
- Jumping at Doors
Important Distinction
Turning away or saying “off” is not enough if the dog still receives attention some of the time. Inconsistent reinforcement can make jumping especially persistent.
What Can Help
Create a repeatable greeting routine, manage the dog before guests enter, reinforce four paws on the floor, and practice with people who can follow the same plan.
When To Get Professional Help
Get help when jumping knocks people down, involves mouthing, escalates around guests, or makes it difficult to safely enter and exit the home.
Related Dog Psychology
FrustrationFrustration occurs when a dog wants access to something, expects an outcome, or attempts a behavior but is prevented from reaching the…ReinforcementReinforcement is any consequence that increases the likelihood a behavior will happen again. The consequence may be food, attention, movement, play, access,…ArousalArousal is a dog's level of mental and physical activation. It ranges from deep rest to intense excitement or stress and affects…ConsistencyConsistency means that cues, boundaries, and consequences remain understandable across repetitions and people. It does not require rigid perfection, but the same…
Related Dog Training
ManagementManagement changes the environment to prevent unwanted behavior from being rehearsed while training is underway. It includes barriers, leashes, distance, schedules, storage,…Alternative Behavior TrainingAlternative behavior training teaches the dog a specific, realistic response that can replace an unwanted behavior. The replacement must meet the situation,…Impulse ControlImpulse control is the dog's ability to pause, wait, or choose an alternative instead of immediately acting on excitement or desire. It…Greeting MannersGreeting manners teach the dog how to approach and interact with people without jumping, mouthing, barking, or overwhelming the person. The training…SettleSettle teaches the dog to relax in a location without maintaining a rigid position. The goal is a softer emotional and physical…
Related Training Option
Behavioral Consultation
Every dog brings a different history, environment, and reason for the behavior. This service can help identify the right next step and build a plan around the dog in front of you.
This library provides general education, not an assessment of an individual dog. Sudden behavior changes, pain-related behavior, or an immediate safety concern should be discussed with an appropriate veterinary or behavior professional.




