Bringing a new puppy into your life is an exciting time, filled with the promise of companionship and fun. As you embark on this journey, two crucial aspects take center stage: early socialization and good manners. The ideal scenario is a dog that is not only happy to meet new people but also refrains from jumping on them. You can achieve this balance by focusing on two fundamental principles: preventing undesirable habits from forming and teaching alternative, positive behaviors. This approach ensures your puppy develops into a well-adjusted companion without the stress of correcting ingrained bad habits during critical socialization periods.
Preventing Undesirable Habits
One effective strategy, especially with young puppies, is to manage their interactions physically. When puppies are young, you can hold them while they greet people. This prevents them from practicing the habit of jumping up. Remember, dogs learn what is rewarding. If jumping up leads to the rewarding experience of greeting a human face-to-face, they will continue this behavior. For larger breeds that are too heavy to lift consistently, have visitors kneel down to the dog’s level before interaction. The key is to stop bad behaviors before they start, a concept often referred to as “nipping bad habits in the bud.”
Teaching an Alternative Behavior: The Key to Success
The most effective way to manage your puppy’s behavior is to teach them an alternative action that is incompatible with jumping. The “sit” command is an excellent choice. If your dog learns to sit consistently to receive attention and greetings, they won’t be able to jump. This simple command, when mastered, can resolve a significant portion of greeting-related behavioral issues.
Mastering the “Sit” Command
When teaching your dog to sit, utilize high-value rewards to reinforce the behavior. It’s crucial not to underestimate the importance of the “sit” command. A poorly understood “sit” can create a fundamental gap in your training. For your dog, “sit” should mean remaining in the sitting position until released, even amidst distractions. Dedicate ample time to teaching a stable and enduring “sit.” Gradually introduce distractions and reward your dog generously for making good choices.
Greeting Etiquette: The “Sit and Greet”
Once your dog reliably holds a sit, integrate greeting behaviors into their training. Begin with simple steps, such as rewarding your dog for sitting while a person simply approaches or stands nearby. As the interactions become more stimulating, gradually increase the difficulty while maintaining high reward value. Progress from a person being present, to speaking to the dog, and then to gentle touching.
Generalizing Training Across Environments
It is vital to generalize your training to various locations and situations. The front door of your home is a common area where excitement levels can escalate when the doorbell rings. Training in this specific scenario is invaluable. Initially, set up these training sessions with family members or familiar individuals your dog doesn’t get overly excited about. Start with the person standing in the doorway with the door closed. Progress to an open door, then have them ring the bell with the door open. Finally, simulate the entire sequence of the door closing, bell ringing, and the door opening. Controlled training in these setups helps build success and reinforces positive behavior. Proactive preparation for a guest’s arrival is far more effective than reacting to uncontrolled excitement. This sign, for example, illustrates excellent foresight in managing a young puppy’s training.
Ultimately, remember that dogs repeat rewarding behaviors. By strategically setting up situations to your advantage, you can foster both excellent social skills and impeccable manners in your dog. Happy training!
Shannon Viljasoo joined the McCann team in 1999 while training Quincey, her spirited Rottweiler. As the Director of Online Training and Content for McCann Professional Dog Trainers, she enjoys writing about canine behavior and training. Shannon currently shares her life with two Tollers, Reggie and Ned, and is passionate about helping people build strong relationships with their canine companions.
