Simple Steps to Stop Your Dog from Jumping on People

Having a dog is like having a best friend who is always happy to see you. Dogs can bring a lot of joy and fun into our lives, but sometimes, they can get a little too excited. Some dogs have a habit of lunging at people, and that can be scary and dangerous. But don’t worry! There are ways to help your dog learn not to do this.

Why Do Dogs Lunge?

Dogs might lunge at people for a bunch of reasons. They might be scared, excited, or trying to protect their owners. Understanding why your dog is lunging can help you figure out how to stop it.

Training is Key

Training your dog is super important. It’s like teaching them the rules of how to behave. One way to train your dog not to lunge is by teaching them to sit and stay. When your dog knows these commands really well, you can use them to keep your dog calm around people.

Say you’re walking your dog, and you see someone coming. You can tell your dog to sit and stay, and give them a treat when they do. This way, they learn that staying calm and not lunging gets them yummy treats! AKC - Training Your Dog

Choosing the Right Leash

The kind of leash you use can make a big difference. A short leash gives you more control over your dog than a long one. If your dog tries to lunge, you can hold them back easier with a short leash.

Meet and Greet

Introducing your dog to lots of different people can help too. When dogs are used to being around people, they are less likely to lunge. But remember, always keep your dog on a leash during introductions to keep everyone safe.

Doggy Time-Out

If your dog does lunge, it’s important to let them know that’s not okay. One way to do this is by giving them a “time-out.” This means stopping playtime and ignoring them for a little while. This helps your dog understand that lunging means no more fun.

Rewarding Good Behavior

Just like people, dogs like to be praised when they do something good. If your dog stays calm around people, be sure to give them lots of love and treats. This helps them understand that not lunging is a good thing.

Practice Makes Perfect

Training takes time and practice. It might be frustrating, but be patient with your dog. Keep practicing, and soon, your dog will learn to stay calm around people.

Special Breeds, Special Needs

Some dog breeds might need a little extra help. For example, German Shepherds are known for being protective, so they might lunge to try to keep you safe. Labrador Retrievers, on the other hand, are super friendly but might lunge because they are excited. Knowing your dog’s breed can help you understand why they might be lunging and how to help them.

Working with a Pro

If you’re having a really hard time, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Professional dog trainers know a lot about dog behavior and can give you tips and tricks to stop your dog from lunging.

Remember, Safety First

Lunging can be dangerous, so it’s really important to keep everyone safe. Always keep your dog on a leash, and if they lunge, move them away from people until they calm down.

Keeping It Fun

Training can be hard work, but it should also be fun! Play games with your dog, give them treats, and spend lots of time together. This helps your dog learn and keeps you both happy.

Final Thoughts

Having a dog that lunges at people can be stressful, but remember, with a little training and patience, your dog can learn to be calm and friendly. Keep practicing, stay safe, and have fun with your furry friend!