Why Puppies Jump

• Jumping is a very natural behavior for puppies, and one that most human owners encourage, often without realizing it. People and mother dogs are bigger than puppies, so jumping up is a good way to get attention, show affection and play. This behavior is harmless and adorable in puppies, but it can be a problem when bigger dogs do it. As with other forms of training, it is better when you start it early.
  
  

The "Off" Command

• The first step in training puppies not to jump is teaching them "off." "Off" is a word you can use when your puppy is on your lap and you want him off, or when he jumps up and you want him to knock it off. Sit with him on the floor and let him rest his paws on your lap. Say "off" and gently push his paws off your lap. After you do this, pet him and say "good boy." Practice this for at least half an hour a day while you play with him. Eventually, he will learn to do it himself.
  
  

Teach Your Puppy not to Jump

• If you want your puppy not to jump on people, you have to make sure that everyone is in on the teaching process. Once your puppy learns the "off" command, have everyone in the family say "off" whenever he jumps on them. They can then praise him when he gets off. After a while, raise the bar. If the puppy comes up to greet you without jumping, pet him and praise him. If he jumps, say "off" sternly and loudly, and walk away. Soon, the puppy will learn that jumping on people is never allowed.