If a dog jumps on you, what is a common mistake?

If a dog jumps on you, what is a common mistake?

• A. Backing away slowly
• B. Shouting at the dog
• C. Running away
• D. Petting the dog

Answer: (D)

Jumping up is a behavior dogs often repeat when it gets them attention, so a common mistake is petting the dog when it jumps. That touch and attention act as a reward, teaching the dog that leaping up brings interaction and affection, which makes the jumping more likely to continue. To prevent this, ignore the jump—turn away or step back—until the dog has all four paws on the floor and is calm, then reward calm behavior with gentle petting or a treat. The other reactions can also unintentionally reinforce jumping by providing attention or turning it into a game, so they’re not ideal responses.

Jumping up is a behavior dogs often repeat when it gets them attention, so a common mistake is petting the dog when it jumps. That touch and attention act as a reward, teaching the dog that leaping up brings interaction and affection, which makes the jumping more likely to continue. To prevent this, ignore the jump—turn away or step back—until the dog has all four paws on the floor and is calm, then reward calm behavior with gentle petting or a treat. The other reactions can also unintentionally reinforce jumping by providing attention or turning it into a game, so they’re not ideal responses.