Jumping on or mounting people

It’s great that your dog loves people; too bad your guests aren’t sharing the joy of getting jumped or body slammed by a canine linebacker. Dogs just wanna have fun, don’t they? Your dog just can’t figure out why you aren’t sharing his joy.

Correction verbally, or with a knee to the chest, might work if your dog were a human flinging himself on you but dogs are different. They think any response is a reward. Whether you speak nicely or harshly-even if you were abusive-he will repeat the behavior. Your only hope will be to take away something he craves-your attention. Starting today ignore your dog when he molests you. If turning your back doesn’t slow him down I recommend Plan B: Banishment.

Dogs communicate with subtle body language signals nearly continually. They are so intensely social (much more than humans) that a sudden loss of interaction sends a strong message. Have your wild dog drag a 6 foot leash from his collar. If your pesky pet persists after you ignore him, pick up the “drag line” and, without a word, lead him to a predetermined time-out room, close the door, and breathe deeply until all has been quiet for about 3-4 minutes.

When the sentence has been served open the door and continue to ignore your dog. After 3-4 more minutes you are free to call your dog for whatever fun activity you both love to share. Repeat the above whenever your dogs show attention-seeking behavior, in other words, hundreds of times. Does this sound hard? You can do this. And, by the way, it works.

Keep the faith and don't give up. Contact me through my web site if you need individual help.