How do I stop my corgi from jumping on people?

Answered by Tom Adger

To stop your corgi from jumping on people, it’s important to set clear boundaries and train your dog to exhibit proper behavior. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this:

1. Communicate with the person approaching: If you notice someone approaching who may be interested in petting your dog, kindly ask them to pause for a moment. Politely explain that you are working on training your dog not to jump on people.

2. Prepare a treat: Have a treat ready in your hand or nearby to reward your dog for good behavior. This will serve as a positive reinforcement for your corgi’s correct response.

3. Ask your dog to sit: Use a clear and firm command such as “sit” to signal your corgi to assume a seated position. If your dog is already trained to sit on command, this step will be easier. If not, it may require some practice and repetition.

4. Maintain a seated position: Instruct the person approaching that they can pet your dog only if your corgi remains seated. This will reinforce the desired behavior and prevent jumping.

5. Reward good behavior: Once your corgi is sitting calmly, allow the person to pet your dog while giving them the treat you prepared. This reinforces the positive association between remaining seated and receiving attention.

6. Repeat and practice: Consistency is key when training your dog. Practice this routine regularly with different people to reinforce the desired behavior. Over time, your corgi will learn that sitting calmly is the appropriate response when meeting new people.

Additional Tips:
– Use a leash: If your corgi tends to jump even with training, using a leash can help you maintain control during interactions. This will allow you to redirect your dog’s attention and reinforce the desired behavior.
– Reward alternative behaviors: Encourage your corgi to engage in alternative behaviors, such as offering a paw or lying down, instead of jumping. Reward these behaviors to reinforce their appropriateness.
– Socialize your corgi: Exposing your dog to various social situations and environments from an early age will help them become more comfortable and less likely to jump on people. This can be achieved through puppy classes, playdates, and controlled interactions with other dogs and people.

Remember, training takes time and patience. Be consistent, positive, and reward your corgi for good behavior. With practice and reinforcement, your corgi will learn to greet people politely without jumping.