Jumping up is one of the most common behavior issues dog owners face. While it may seem cute when a small puppy does it, jumping can quickly become a problem—especially with large dogs. Not only can it be annoying, but it may also be dangerous, particularly for children or older adults. Fortunately, with the right approach, you can teach your dog to greet politely without jumping.

Why Do Dogs Jump?

For dogs, jumping is often a way to say "hi" and get your attention. Since dogs greet each other face-to-face, they try to do the same with humans. Unfortunately, that means jumping up to reach your face. The more your dog is rewarded—whether with laughter, petting, or even being pushed away—the more likely they are to repeat the behavior.

1. Reward Calm Greetings Only

One of the best ways to stop jumping is to reward your dog only when they remain calm and have all four paws on the ground. Be consistent: ignore them when they jump, and praise them as soon as they stay grounded. Consistency helps your dog connect the dots and learn which behavior gets rewarded.

2. Use Positive Reinforcement

Dogs repeat behaviors that lead to rewards. If your dog stays calm and doesn’t jump when you walk in the door, immediately give them attention—talk to them, pet them, or offer a treat. Timing matters. If you wait too long, they may jump again to get your focus.

3. Withdraw Attention When They Jump

If your dog jumps on you, don’t scold or touch them—simply turn away or walk out of reach. Once they stop, turn back and greet them calmly. This teaches your dog that jumping gets them nothing, while staying grounded earns attention.

4. Use Management Techniques

Make it easier for your dog to succeed. When guests arrive, keep your dog on a leash or in a separate room. If needed, use a baby gate or crate to create a safe space. This prevents jumping while still allowing your dog to be part of the action.

5. Give Them Something Better to Do

Redirect their energy into a better behavior. For example, ask your dog to sit when someone walks in. Sitting is incompatible with jumping and gives them an alternative action to earn rewards. You can also scatter treats on the floor when visitors enter—sniffing the ground keeps your dog focused and prevents them from leaping up.

6. Stay Calm and Quiet

Excited greetings from you can make it harder for your dog to stay calm. Keep your tone soft and your movements relaxed when you enter the house or greet your pet. A low-energy approach helps your dog stay composed and reduces the urge to jump.

7. Avoid Physical Corrections

Pushing your dog, grabbing their paws, or using your knee to block them might seem like a quick fix—but these actions often reinforce the behavior or cause fear. Some dogs might misinterpret physical contact as a game, while others may become anxious or avoidant.

8. Don’t Let Other People Reinforce Jumping

Even if you’re consistent, others might unintentionally undo your progress. Make sure family members, friends, and visitors follow your rules—no attention unless your dog is calm and on the ground. Politely ask guests not to greet your dog until they’re sitting or relaxed.

9. Practice With Familiar Faces First

Start your training in low-distraction environments. Use friends or family to help practice calm greetings. Once your dog understands the routine, gradually introduce new people or more stimulating situations, like park visits or sidewalk strolls.

10. Be Patient and Keep Practicing

Changing behavior takes time and repetition. Stay patient and keep rewarding your dog for good choices. Over time, your dog will learn that staying grounded brings praise, while jumping leads to nothing. With consistency, calm greetings will become the new normal.