Raising Puppies

Once you have taught your puppy to stop jumping on you, it's time to teach her not to jump on your guests. After all, your friends and family may not appreciate being mauled every time they come to visit. Two exercises will help with this behavior: Greeting Manners and Sitting Politely for Petting.

You will need another person to help you. Be sure to instruct them not to reward your puppy in any way for jumping up. Explain to them that this includes laughing, giggling, petting, and
even looking at your puppy. Your puppy thinks that any attention is good attention!

Greeting Manners

Step 1:

a) Stand inside your house. Have a treat hidden in your hand. Put your puppy on leash so that you can better control your environment. You won't use the leash to correct her, just to prevent her from running off and getting distracted.
b)Your friend or family member is outside. Have him ring the doorbell.
c) Answer the door and greet your friend. Your puppy will likely jump on the person.

Step 2:

a) The second your puppy makes contact with the "guest," give the cue "Off." Your guest should turn away from your puppy and fold his arms across his chest. He should completely ignore your puppy.
b) Both of you wait. Don't lure her off with the treat, and don't keep repeating, "Off! Off! Off!" Just wait. She will realize that she's not getting any attention from your guest, and she will get off.

Step 3:

a) The second that your puppy puts all four paws on the ground, mark "Yes!" and give her the treat from your hand.
b) Have your guest attempt to pet your puppy and give her the attention that she wants. If she jumps up again, immediately repeat Step 2. Your puppy should only get attention when all four paws are on the floor.
c) Repeat from Step 1 several times more, then take a break until your next training session. If you are consistent about practicing this exercise at the door, your puppy will learn that she only gets attention when she's off your guests, not on them.