German Shorthaired Pointers, affectionately known as GSPs, are an energetic and lively breed. Their enthusiastic demeanor can sometimes lead to overly excited greetings, such as jumping up on people. Although this behavior is generally out of joy, it’s important to teach them to control their excitement. Here are five tips to help your GSP keep all four paws on the ground.
⚠️ Note: While the tips below should get you started, it’s important to realize that for best results, you should take your German Shepherd through a more complete dog training course. Consider looking into an online training course that specifically addresses jumping (we like SpiritDog’s “Focus” course or K9 Institute’s Dog Masterclass)
1. Embrace the Power of Positive Reinforcement
Training your GSP using positive reinforcement methods is a proven way to promote the behaviors you want to see. Always reward your dog for keeping all four paws on the ground when interacting with people. The reward could be a favorite treat, a play session with a cherished toy, or affectionate petting. This method reinforces the idea that keeping calm and not jumping brings pleasant results.
2. Utilize Basic Commands
Teaching basic commands like ‘sit’ or ‘off’ can be instrumental in controlling your GSP’s jumping tendencies. When you see your dog getting ready to jump, preemptively command them to ‘sit’. Reward them when they comply. If they do jump, use the command ‘off’ while gently guiding them back to the ground. Eventually, they’ll start to associate these commands with the correct behavior.
3. Ignore Jumping Behaviour
Dogs, including GSPs, often jump to get attention. Ignoring this behavior communicates that jumping up does not yield the desired result. If your GSP jumps on you, turn your back, avoid eye contact, and stay silent. Once they calm down and all four paws are on the ground, reward them with the attention they were seeking.
4. Implement Time-Outs
For some dogs, jumping may be a deeply ingrained habit that requires additional measures to break. If your GSP continues to jump even when ignored, try giving them a brief time-out. Take them to a quiet, safe space where they can calm down away from the action. The loss of social interaction, even for a short time, can help them realize that jumping is not acceptable behavior.
5. Try an Online Dog Training Course
If you’re finding it challenging to manage your GSP’s jumping behavior on your own, consider enrolling in an online dog training course. These courses provide comprehensive training techniques, helping you not only to control jumping but also with general obedience and behavior training.
Online dog training courses are convenient and flexible, allowing you to learn at your own pace and from the comfort of your home. They often include video demonstrations, detailed guides, and community forums where you can discuss specific issues with other dog owners.
Our 2 favorite courses that address dogs jumping on people are:
1. SpiritDog’s Focus Course (best on a budget)
The “Focus in Public – Out and About” course by SpiritDog Training, led by expert trainer Steffi Trott, is designed to help dog owners improve their pets’ behavior in public. The course includes 21 lessons covering topics such as achieving full dog engagement, training perfect heels, teaching dogs to settle on a mat anywhere, and playing fun games in public places. The course has lifetime access and a 60-day money-back guarantee.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass” (best overall)
More than just a course that teaches your dog not to jump, this more comprehensive training class tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.
In conclusion, while the journey to teaching your GSP not to jump on people requires patience and consistency, it’s a rewarding experience. Remember, every dog learns at its own pace, so celebrate the small victories along the way. By using these tips and considering an online dog training course, you’ll be well on your way to having a well-behaved German Shorthaired Pointer who greets everyone politely.
Toledo, United States.
