Stopping your dog from jumping up at you and guests involves a balanced training method. Here’s how you can do it:

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Ignore the Jumping:

   • When your dog jumps up, turn away and avoid eye contact or verbal acknowledgment. This removes the reward of attention.

2. Reward Positive Behavior:

   • The moment your dog has all four paws on the ground, praise them and offer a treat. Timing is crucial so they associate calm behavior with rewards.

3. Teach an Alternate Behavior:

   • Train your dog to sit or stay when greeting people. Practice this with friends and family, rewarding them when they follow the command instead of jumping.

4. Consistent Corrections:

   • Use a firm “no” or a similar command to correct the jumping. Do not shout or scare the dog; a calm, firm tone is more effective.

5. Leash Training:

   • If the jumping persists, use a leash to control your dog when guests arrive. Have them sit or stay as the guests enter, rewarding them for staying calm.

6. Practice, Practice, Practice:

   • Consistency is key. Practice with different people in various settings to help your dog generalize the behavior.

Tips for Success

• Be Patient: Changing behavior takes time. Stay consistent and patient with your training.

• Stay Calm: Dogs can pick up on your emotions. Staying calm helps reinforce the behavior you want to see.

• Get Everyone Involved: Ensure that everyone in your household follows the same rules and training methods to avoid confusing your dog.

Balanced training combines positive reinforcement with appropriate corrections to guide your dog toward better behavior. With patience and consistency, you’ll see improvements in your dog’s manners, making interactions with you and your guests more enjoyable.