Key Takeaways
- Jumping is a natural canine behaviour often rooted in excitement, instinct, or learned responses rather than defiance.
- Uncontrolled jumping can be problematic, leading to scratches, injuries, and fear in visitors, especially children or elderly individuals.
- Understanding why dogs jump—from attention-seeking to pack greeting instincts—provides the foundation for effective training.
- Training for polite greetings requires consistency, patience, and reinforcement of calm behaviour across all household members.
- Practical strategies like teaching “sit for greetings,” place training, and leash management are highly effective.
- Supportive products, such as front-clip harnesses, mats for training, and high-value treats, make the process easier and more reliable.
- Australian resources—including professional trainers, behaviourists, and community obedience classes—are valuable for persistent cases.
Introduction
Picture this: You arrive home after a long day at work, and the moment you step through the door, your dog launches at you with uncontainable excitement. For many Australian pet owners, this scenario is all too familiar. While the enthusiasm is heartwarming, the behaviour—scratched legs, muddy paw prints, or worse, a toppled visitor—can quickly become problematic.
Jumping is one of the most common behavioural issues reported by dog owners worldwide, and Australia is no exception. According to data from the RSPCA Australia, behavioural complaints, including excessive jumping, are among the leading reasons why some dogs are surrendered to shelters. What may begin as a harmless puppy habit can grow into a dangerous or frustrating problem if left unchecked.
This article explores the behavioural reasons behind dog jumping and provides practical, training-based solutions for encouraging polite greetings. Whether you’re managing a boisterous puppy, retraining an older dog, or living with a rescue pup who has never learned boundaries, you’ll discover actionable strategies grounded in expert advice, modern training science, and the realities of everyday Australian life.
As with many aspects of canine behaviour, the key lies in understanding why your dog is jumping before choosing the right training method. With consistency, patience, and the right tools—from harnesses to training treats—you can transform chaotic greetings into calm, respectful interactions that make life easier for both you and your four-legged companion.
Why Do Dogs Jump? The Behavioural Reasons
To correct jumping, we first need to understand its roots. Contrary to what some may think, dogs don’t leap onto people out of stubbornness or to be “naughty.” Instead, jumping is usually a natural behaviour tied to instinct, emotion, and learning. By recognising these motivations, Australian pet owners can address the cause rather than just the symptom.
1. Natural Canine Instincts
In the wild and within domestic dog packs, face-to-face interaction is a vital part of social bonding. Puppies greet their mothers and littermates by licking their faces. When a dog jumps on you, it is often trying to mimic this instinctive greeting ritual—getting closer to your face is their way of saying “Hello, I’ve missed you!”
2. Excitement and Overstimulation
Dogs are emotional creatures. Many can barely contain their joy when you return home, when guests arrive, or during play. Jumping up becomes an overflow of excitement, a physical release of pent-up energy. High-energy breeds such as Border Collies, Kelpies, and working-line Labradors are especially prone to this behaviour.
3. Attention-Seeking Behaviour
For dogs, attention is a reward. Even if you scold, push, or laugh when they jump, they interpret it as engagement. In this way, jumping becomes a reinforced behaviour: the dog learns that paws on your chest equals guaranteed attention. Over time, this pattern becomes difficult to break.
4. Learned Habits from Puppyhood
Jumping often starts when dogs are small and cute. As puppies, their little leaps are seen as adorable, and they’re often rewarded with pats or cuddles. But as they grow, the same behaviour—now stronger and more forceful—can cause harm. Unfortunately, by this stage, the dog has learned that jumping = affection.
5. Lack of Clear Boundaries
Inconsistent training sends mixed signals. If one family member encourages jumping (“Oh, I don’t mind!”) while another scolds it, the dog is left confused. Without consistent boundaries, dogs default to the behaviour that works best for them—jumping.
6. Social Greetings and Mimicking Pack Behaviour
Dogs are keen observers of human behaviour. If guests reward them with eye contact or pats, they may quickly learn that jumping is the quickest route to social success. This is why visitors often experience the brunt of jumping, even when owners try to enforce better manners.
Expert Insight:
“Jumping up is rarely a dominance issue—it’s an enthusiasm issue. By understanding what motivates the jump, we can redirect it into a more acceptable greeting.” – Dr. Kate Mornement, Australian Animal Behaviourist
The Risks of Jumping Dogs
While a leaping, tail-wagging dog may seem harmless at first, the consequences can range from mildly inconvenient to seriously dangerous. What many pet owners see as “just excitement” can actually pose risks not only to humans but also to the dog itself. Understanding these risks highlights why training polite greetings is more than just a matter of good manners—it’s a matter of safety and responsibility.
1. Physical Harm to Humans
- Scratches and bruises: Dogs often jump with their claws extended, leaving marks on arms, legs, or even faces.
- Falls and injuries: Children, elderly individuals, or people with balance issues are particularly vulnerable. A medium-to-large dog can easily knock someone over.
- Unintentional bites: When dogs get overexcited, mouthing or nipping can occur during a jump, leading to accidental injury.
In fact, data from Dog Bite Prevention Week Australia has shown that many bite incidents reported in homes occur during greetings or playtime, when dogs are overstimulated.
2. Emotional Stress for Visitors
Not all people are comfortable around dogs. For visitors with allergies, phobias, or past traumatic experiences, being greeted by a jumping dog can be intimidating or distressing. This can create unnecessary tension and make guests reluctant to visit again.
3. Reinforcing Undesirable Behaviour
Every time a dog receives attention for jumping—whether it’s a pat, laugh, or push away—it reinforces the habit. Over time, the dog learns that jumping is the fastest way to earn interaction, making the behaviour even harder to eliminate.
4. Legal and Liability Concerns in Australia
Dog owners in Australia are legally responsible for their pets’ behaviour. If a jumping dog injures someone, even unintentionally, the owner may face liability. Councils and insurers often note that dogs considered “out of control” can lead to fines, restrictions, or claims.
For instance, under state-based legislation such as the Domestic Animals Act in Victoria, owners may be held accountable if their dog’s behaviour poses a risk to public safety. A “friendly jump” can quickly become a legal complication if it results in injury.
5. Risk to the Dog Itself
Jumping doesn’t only endanger humans. Dogs can also:
- Slip on tiled or hardwood floors, leading to sprains or fractures.
- Injure themselves by colliding with furniture or doors during excitable leaps.
- Develop joint issues if repeated high-impact jumping becomes habitual, particularly in larger breeds like German Shepherds or Rottweilers.
Quote:
“Uncontrolled jumping is one of the most overlooked causes of preventable accidents with dogs. Polite greetings are as much for the dog’s safety as they are for ours.” – Australian Veterinary Association (AVA)
Training Principles for Polite Greetings
Correcting a dog’s jumping habit doesn’t happen overnight—it requires structure, patience, and consistency. Training polite greetings means teaching your dog an alternative behaviour that earns them the same reward (your attention) without the chaos of jumping. Here are the fundamental principles that form the foundation of any effective training plan.
1. Consistency Is Key
Dogs thrive on routine and predictability. If one family member allows jumping while another discourages it, the dog will become confused and revert to what works best for them. Every member of the household—and ideally visitors too—must respond to jumping in the same way.
Tip for Australian households: Prepare guests before they enter. Ask them not to encourage the jumping and to follow your established rules (e.g., ignore until calm).
2. Ignore and Redirect
Dogs often jump for one reason: attention. The most effective way to extinguish this behaviour is to withhold that reward. Turn away, fold your arms, and avoid eye contact when your dog jumps. The moment all four paws are on the ground, offer attention and praise.
This creates a simple association:
- Jumping = No attention
- Calm behaviour = Affection, praise, or treats
3. Reward Calm Behaviour
Training is about replacement, not suppression. Instead of merely telling your dog “no,” you must teach them what to do instead. Sitting, standing calmly, or lying down should all be rewarded immediately. Over time, your dog learns that calm greetings bring better results than leaping.
Example:
When you walk in the door, wait for your dog to sit before giving pats or saying hello. Reinforce this until “sit for greetings” becomes second nature.
4. Controlled Greetings
Managing the environment can help prevent unwanted behaviour. Keep a leash or harness on your dog during greeting situations, especially when guests arrive. This provides you with more control and helps the dog learn proper boundaries without repeated rehearsal of bad habits.
For excitable dogs, guiding them to a designated “place” (such as a mat or bed) during arrivals can provide structure and prevent chaos at the doorway.
5. Patience and Persistence
Jumping is often deeply ingrained—especially if it’s been unintentionally reinforced for months or years. Behavioural change requires time, repetition, and persistence. Owners must resist the urge to give in during moments of frustration.
Expert Insight:
“Training a dog not to jump is less about punishment and more about creating clarity. Dogs will always choose the behaviour that gets them what they want. Our job is to show them that calm greetings get them everything jumping never will.” – Steve Austin, Australian Dog Trainer (Dog Training Australia)
Step-by-Step Training Strategies
Now that we’ve explored the principles behind polite greetings, it’s time to put them into action. Training a dog not to jump requires structured exercises that redirect their enthusiasm into acceptable behaviours. Below are proven step-by-step strategies you can implement at home.
1. Teach “Sit for Greetings”
This is one of the most effective and widely recommended replacements for jumping.
How to train it:
- Ask your dog to sit when you enter the room or when visitors arrive.
- Ignore any attempts to jump and only acknowledge the dog once they are sitting.
- Reward immediately with praise, a treat, or gentle affection.
- Repeat consistently until “sit” becomes the automatic response to greetings.
Pro tip: Practice this exercise in different contexts—indoors, outdoors, and when visitors arrive—to build reliability.
2. Leash Management
For dogs that struggle with self-control, using a leash (even indoors) during greetings can provide much-needed structure.
- Attach a front-clip harness or standard leash before guests arrive.
- Step on the leash gently to prevent the dog from launching upward.
- Reward the dog for keeping all four paws on the ground.
This approach not only stops the jumping but also helps the dog rehearse calmer behaviour under your guidance.
3. Place Training
Teaching your dog to go to a specific spot (a mat, bed, or crate) can be invaluable during high-excitement moments.
Steps:
- Introduce the “place” command by luring your dog onto a mat or bed with treats.
- Reward the dog when they remain there calmly.
- Practice short durations at first, then gradually extend the time.
- Use this command during door greetings to create a calm, structured environment.
This method is particularly useful in Australian homes where open-plan layouts can make entryways chaotic.
4. Positive Reinforcement Timing
Timing is everything in dog training. The reward must come the instant the dog offers the desired behaviour.
- Reward as soon as your dog’s paws stay on the ground.
- Use a training clicker to mark the exact behaviour, followed by a treat.
- Consistency will build a strong association between calmness and reward.
5. Withholding Attention
If your dog does jump, resist the urge to push them away or shout. Physical contact—positive or negative—still counts as attention.
Instead:
- Turn your back.
- Cross your arms.
- Wait patiently until the dog calms.
- Then reward the calm behaviour.
Over time, this clear and consistent feedback teaches the dog that jumping is ineffective.
Quote:
“Dogs are opportunists. They will repeat whatever behaviour gets them results. By making jumping ineffective and calm greetings rewarding, you set your dog up for success.” – Delta Institute of Australia, Professional Dog Training Association
Tools & Products That Can Help
Training polite greetings becomes far easier when the right tools are used to manage energy, redirect behaviour, and reinforce calmness. While no product alone will stop a dog from jumping, the right equipment can support training efforts and keep both dogs and humans safe.
Harnesses and Leashes
Using a front-clip harness gives owners better control over excitable dogs during greetings. Unlike collars, which can put pressure on the neck, harnesses distribute force evenly and make redirection gentler. Leashes, even when used indoors, allow you to prevent jumping before it happens.
Training Clickers and Treats
Clickers provide a clear, consistent marker for the exact moment your dog offers the correct behaviour. Pairing the click with high-value treats—such as chicken or liver pieces—helps reinforce calm greetings more effectively than verbal praise alone.
Dog Beds and Mats
A mat or bed is essential for place training. By creating a specific “calm zone,” you give your dog a clear signal of where they should be when guests arrive. Over time, this becomes a reliable alternative to jumping.
Interactive Toys
When excitement levels are high, redirecting energy into a toy can help manage the urge to jump. Chew toys, puzzle feeders, or rope toys provide mental and physical engagement, reducing the chance of overstimulation.
Product Integration Example
At PetCareShed, owners can find practical solutions to support training, including:
- Tactical harnesses for controlled greetings
- Training clickers for precise reinforcement
- Durable mats and beds for place training
- Interactive toys to redirect excitement
These tools, when paired with consistent training, give Australian dog owners the confidence and structure they need to manage excitable greeters.
Special Considerations
Not all dogs learn or behave in the same way. Age, breed, background, and household dynamics all influence how jumping develops and how easily it can be corrected. By considering these factors, Australian pet owners can tailor their training approach for more effective results.
Puppies vs. Adult Dogs
- Puppies: Jumping often begins here, as their natural instinct is to greet face-to-face. Because they’re small, it’s often unintentionally encouraged. Early intervention is crucial—teaching “sit for greetings” from the start prevents bad habits from forming.
- Adult dogs: If jumping has been reinforced for years, breaking the habit requires more patience. With consistent training, even older dogs can learn polite greetings, though it may take longer.
Rescue Dogs
Many rescue dogs arrive in their new homes without any structured training. Some may have been rewarded for jumping in previous environments, while others may have lacked positive human interactions altogether. Patience and gentle, consistent reinforcement are essential for helping rescue dogs transition into polite behaviour.
Breed Tendencies
Different breeds have varying levels of energy and social drive.
- High-energy breeds like Border Collies, Kelpies, and working-line Labradors are more likely to jump due to heightened excitement.
- Guarding or independent breeds (such as Akitas or Basenjis) may jump less often but could still display the behaviour when overstimulated.
- Toy breeds often receive mixed responses—owners may allow jumping because the dog is small, which reinforces the behaviour.
Multi-Dog Households
When more than one dog is present, jumping behaviour can quickly escalate. One dog’s excitement can trigger another’s, creating chaos during greetings. Training each dog individually, then reinforcing calm group greetings, helps maintain order.
Human Factors
It’s not just about the dogs—humans play a big role too. Guests who encourage jumping, children who squeal and run, or family members who allow exceptions all contribute to mixed signals. Preparing visitors and maintaining consistency across the household is just as important as training the dog itself.
Expert Insight:
“Dogs don’t generalise well. If they learn not to jump on you but are allowed to jump on guests, the training will unravel. Consistency across all interactions is critical.” – Dr. Joanne Righetti, Animal Behaviourist (Australia)
The Role of Professional Training in Australia
While many owners can successfully manage jumping through at-home training, some situations call for professional support. Dogs that are particularly large, energetic, or have a long history of reinforcement may require expert guidance to overcome ingrained habits. Fortunately, Australia offers a wide range of professional training options tailored to household needs.
When to Seek Professional Help
You may benefit from enlisting a qualified trainer or behaviourist if:
- Your dog is large and capable of injuring people by jumping.
- You’ve tried consistent training with little success.
- The behaviour escalates into nipping, barking, or other forms of overstimulation.
- You live in a multi-dog household where excitement spreads quickly.
- You want structured support for rescue or rehomed dogs with little prior training.
Types of Professionals Available
- Certified Dog Trainers (CDT): Specialise in teaching obedience and correcting common behaviours like jumping.
- Animal Behaviourists: Provide in-depth insight into the psychological drivers of behaviour, often useful for complex cases.
- Veterinary Behaviourists: Licensed vets with specialist qualifications who can address behavioural issues that may be linked to medical conditions.
Training Organisations in Australia
Several reputable organisations provide training resources and accredited trainers:
- Delta Institute of Australia – Offers nationally recognised dog training certification and positive reinforcement methods. Delta Institute
- APDT Australia (Association of Pet Dog Trainers) – A professional body promoting science-based, humane training methods. APDT Australia
- RSPCA Australia – Provides group obedience classes and puppy preschools across the country. RSPCA Training
Benefits of Group Classes
Obedience classes not only teach dogs to greet politely but also provide controlled socialisation opportunities. Practicing calm greetings in a structured environment helps dogs generalise the behaviour to real-world situations, including visits from friends or neighbours.
Trainer Selection Tips
When choosing a trainer in Australia, ensure they:
- Use positive reinforcement rather than punishment.
- Are accredited or recognised by professional bodies (Delta, APDT, etc.).
- Offer practical, hands-on exercises you can replicate at home.
- Provide personalised advice tailored to your dog’s breed, age, and environment.
Expert Quote:
“The key to overcoming persistent behaviours like jumping is not force but consistency, structure, and reward-based learning. Professional trainers can bridge the gap between owner frustration and long-term success.” – APDT Australia
Case Studies and Real-Life Examples
Theory is helpful, but real-world experiences bring training principles to life. Many Australian dog owners have successfully reshaped their dogs’ greeting habits, proving that with consistency, patience, and the right tools, even persistent jumpers can learn polite manners.
Case Study 1: The Boisterous Labrador
Background: A family in Sydney struggled with their two-year-old Labrador, Max, who greeted every visitor with a full-body leap. Despite their best efforts, his size and energy made greetings chaotic and occasionally dangerous for children.
Solution: The family implemented the “Sit for Greetings” rule. Each time they entered the house, they ignored Max until he sat, rewarding him immediately for calm behaviour. Guests were instructed beforehand to follow the same routine. A front-clip harness was also used to prevent lunges during the early training stages.
Result: Within six weeks, Max automatically sat whenever someone approached the door. His enthusiasm was still visible through tail wags and bright eyes, but the dangerous leaping was gone.
Case Study 2: The Elderly Owner and the Excitable Cavoodle
Background: Margaret, a retiree in Melbourne, adored her Cavoodle, Bella, but struggled with her habit of leaping into laps and onto visitors. Margaret’s balance issues made the jumping a genuine risk.
Solution: A professional trainer introduced place training using a soft mat near the door. Bella was taught to go to her mat whenever the doorbell rang, receiving treats for staying calm. The mat became Bella’s safe greeting spot, reducing her excitement and keeping Margaret safe.
Result: Bella now runs to her mat instead of leaping, and Margaret feels more confident welcoming friends without worrying about being knocked over.
Case Study 3: Rescue Dog Rehabilitation
Background: Charlie, a Border Collie cross adopted from a Brisbane shelter, had developed a strong habit of jumping—likely because it had been rewarded in his previous environment.
Solution: His new owners worked with a certified behaviourist who combined clicker training with high-value treats. The focus was on reinforcing calm behaviour and rewarding “four paws on the floor.” They also used interactive toys to redirect Charlie’s energy during high-stimulation moments like arrivals.
Result: After three months, Charlie’s jumping had reduced by 80%. While occasional lapses still occurred with unfamiliar visitors, his overall behaviour was far more manageable, and his owners reported feeling a stronger bond thanks to the structured training.
Key Takeaway from the Case Studies
These examples highlight that:
- Even energetic breeds like Labradors and Border Collies can learn calmer greetings.
- Older owners benefit from structured place training for safety.
- Rescue dogs with ingrained habits may require professional support, but progress is achievable.
Each case underscores the importance of consistency, preparation, and appropriate tools. Owners who stuck to their routines saw lasting results, proving that polite greetings aren’t just possible—they’re realistic for Australian households of all kinds.
Long-Term Maintenance
Teaching a dog polite greetings is only half the battle—the other half is ensuring the behaviour sticks for life. Without consistent reinforcement, dogs can easily slip back into old habits, especially when excitement levels are high. Long-term success depends on maintaining structure, refreshing training, and involving everyone who interacts with your dog.
Reinforcing Rules for Visitors
Guests often unintentionally undo training progress by encouraging jumping (“Oh, I don’t mind!”). To avoid this:
- Brief visitors before they enter your home.
- Ask them to ignore your dog until all four paws are on the ground or until your dog sits.
- Provide treats so visitors can reward calm behaviour, reinforcing the same rules you follow.
Refreshing Training Periodically
Even well-trained dogs benefit from occasional practice sessions.
- Revisit “sit for greetings” and place training every few weeks.
- Incorporate greetings into daily routines, such as coming home from work or returning from the garden.
- Use intermittent rewards (praise or treats) to keep the behaviour strong.
Managing High-Excitement Moments
Events like parties, children’s playdates, or holiday gatherings can overwhelm even well-trained dogs.
- Use a leash or harness during high-stimulation times to prevent lapses.
- Provide a designated calm space (such as a crate or separate room) when managing multiple visitors.
- Offer enrichment toys to redirect energy while people arrive.
Building Trust Through Consistency
A dog that knows exactly what’s expected of them feels more secure. Polite greetings become part of their daily rhythm, strengthening the bond between dog and owner. Over time, these routines reduce overall anxiety and overexcitement.
The Role of Patience
Behavioural training is never a “one-and-done” process. Setbacks are normal, especially when routines change or visitors unintentionally encourage bad habits. By maintaining patience and calmly reinforcing expectations, you ensure lasting results.
Expert Note:
“Good behaviour isn’t trained in a day; it’s maintained over a lifetime. Reinforcement, consistency, and patience are what transform training into habit.” – Australian Veterinary Behaviourists Group (AVBIG)
Related Product Recommendations
Training a dog not to jump is about consistency and technique, but the right products can make the process smoother and more effective. At PetCareShed, we recommend practical tools that support Australian dog owners in building calmer, safer greetings.
Harnesses with Front-Clip Control
- Why it helps: A front-clip harness redirects forward momentum, making it easier to manage dogs that lunge or jump during greetings.
- Best for: Large or energetic breeds such as Labradors, Border Collies, or Staffies.
- Added benefit: Reduces strain on the neck compared to traditional collars.
Non-Slip Dog Mats for Greeting Areas
- Why it helps: Mats provide a designated “place” for dogs to settle during guest arrivals. Non-slip surfaces prevent accidental sliding and make training safer.
- Best for: Place training exercises in entryways or living areas.
- Added benefit: Creates a calm zone that dogs begin to associate with relaxation.
High-Value Training Treats
- Why it helps: Dogs learn fastest when rewards are both timely and desirable. Small, soft treats allow for rapid reinforcement during greeting practice.
- Best for: Short, repetitive training sessions.
- Added benefit: Encourages dogs to focus on the owner rather than visitors.
Dog Training Aids
- Clickers: Provide a clear signal marking the exact moment your dog behaves correctly.
- Treat pouches: Keep rewards handy, making training consistent and efficient.
- Leashes: Using a leash indoors during greetings gives owners more control.
Interactive Toys for Energy Redirection
- Why it helps: Toys like chew ropes, puzzle feeders, or durable chew bones give dogs an outlet for excitement, reducing the urge to jump.
- Best for: Dogs that become overstimulated during high-energy moments.
- Added benefit: Provides mental stimulation and reduces boredom-related behaviours.
These product categories don’t just assist in training—they also promote overall wellbeing by encouraging structure, calmness, and focus. Australian dog owners who combine consistent training with supportive tools are far more likely to see long-term results.
Conclusion
Jumping is one of the most common and frustrating behaviours faced by Australian dog owners. While it often comes from a place of joy and affection, uncontrolled jumping can quickly lead to problems—ranging from scratched legs and frightened guests to potential injuries and legal liabilities.
By understanding the behavioural reasons behind jumping—whether it’s instinct, excitement, or attention-seeking—you can better address the root of the problem instead of just the symptom. Training methods such as “Sit for Greetings,” leash management, place training, and consistent positive reinforcement provide practical pathways to calmer, safer greetings.
The key lies in consistency, patience, and preparation. Every member of the household (and even guests) must follow the same rules, ensuring your dog learns that polite behaviour always brings better results than leaping. Over time, these routines become second nature, creating a calmer and more respectful home environment.
Supporting products, such as front-clip harnesses, mats for place training, high-value treats, and training clickers, can make the process easier and more effective. And for dogs with deeply ingrained habits or owners seeking extra guidance, professional trainers and behaviourists in Australia provide expert support.
Ultimately, polite greetings are about more than manners—they’re about safety, trust, and a stronger bond between you and your dog. With consistent training and the right tools, you can transform those chaotic leaps into calm, joyful reunions that everyone—owners, visitors, and dogs alike—can enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does it take to stop a dog from jumping?
The timeline varies depending on the dog’s age, breed, and how long the behaviour has been reinforced. Puppies may learn within a few weeks, while older dogs with years of practice may take several months. Consistency is the most important factor.
Q2: Should I punish my dog for jumping?
No. Punishment often backfires, creating confusion or fear without addressing the root cause. Instead, focus on ignoring the jump and rewarding calm behaviour. Positive reinforcement leads to lasting results without damaging trust.
Q3: What if my dog only jumps on visitors, not me?
This usually means the behaviour has been reinforced by guests. Prepare visitors before they arrive and instruct them to ignore your dog until calm. Provide treats so they can reward polite greetings. Training must be consistent across all interactions.
Q4: Can older dogs be retrained to stop jumping?
Yes. Even though older dogs may have stronger habits, they are capable of learning new behaviours. It may take longer than with a puppy, but consistent practice and patience will still produce results.
Q5: Are certain breeds more prone to jumping than others?
Yes. High-energy breeds such as Border Collies, Labradors, and Kelpies tend to jump more often due to their natural enthusiasm. Smaller breeds may also get away with jumping because it seems less problematic, but the behaviour should still be corrected.
Q6: Is it okay to let my small dog jump since they don’t cause harm?
Allowing small dogs to jump sends mixed signals and reinforces the behaviour. Even if they can’t physically harm people, it encourages poor manners and may cause discomfort to visitors. The same polite greeting rules should apply to all breeds and sizes.
Q7: What should I do if my dog gets too excited during parties or gatherings?
Manage the environment. Use a leash or harness during arrivals, give your dog a safe “place” to stay, or provide interactive toys to redirect their excitement. In some cases, offering a separate quiet space (like a crate or another room) is best.
Q8: Can professional trainers really help with jumping issues?
Absolutely. Trainers and behaviourists can assess your dog’s specific triggers and provide customised strategies. Group classes also allow dogs to practice calm greetings in controlled social settings, which helps them generalise polite behaviour.
