Known as the “Apollo of Dogs” for their magnificent size and regal stature, Great Danes are a breed that is impossible to ignore. Though gentle and loving by nature, their imposing size can become a concern when it translates into unwanted behaviors like jumping on people. Training a Great Dane not to jump is essential not just for manners, but also for safety. Below are five useful tips to help guide your training process:
⚠️ 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. Start Training from Puppyhood
Although an adult Great Dane can certainly learn new behaviors, starting from puppyhood gives you the advantage of shaping your dog’s behavior before their size becomes a real issue. Introduce your puppy to basic obedience commands such as “Sit,” “Stay,” and “Down.” Establishing these commands early on creates a solid foundation for addressing unwanted behaviors like jumping.
2. Ignore Unwanted Behavior
It might be cute when a Great Dane puppy jumps up to greet you, but this behavior will be far less adorable when they’re full-grown. From the start, ignore jumping by turning away and avoiding eye contact until all four paws are back on the ground. Once your dog is calm and collected, reward them with the attention they seek. This way, they will associate good manners with positive outcomes.
3. Reward Good Behavior
Positive reinforcement is key when it comes to training any dog breed, including Great Danes. If your dog greets you without jumping, make sure to reward them with praise, petting, or treats. This will help them understand that keeping all paws on the ground leads to rewards.
4. Teach an Incompatible Behavior
One of the most effective ways to discourage jumping is to teach your Great Dane an incompatible behavior. For instance, instruct your dog to “Sit” or “Stay” when greeting people. These commands require them to keep all four paws on the ground, thereby making jumping impossible. Once your dog executes the desired behavior, don’t forget to reward them.
5. Consider an Online Dog Training Course
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might need extra help to curb your Great Dane’s jumping habit. In such cases, an online dog training course can be an invaluable resource.
Online dog training courses offer comprehensive guidance on a variety of topics, including how to discourage unwanted behaviors like jumping. They also provide you with access to expert knowledge and techniques that have been proven effective.
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.
The best part about online courses is that you can go at your own pace and revisit topics as necessary. This allows you to customize your training approach to suit your Great Dane’s individual needs. Keep in mind that it’s important to ensure the online course uses positive reinforcement methods, which are the most effective and humane approaches to dog training.
Training your Great Dane not to jump on people can be a challenging task, given their size and natural exuberance. However, with consistent training, patience, and the right techniques, you can teach your Great Dane to greet people politely and safely. Whether you train your dog yourself or seek help from online resources, remember that the goal is to ensure a happy and well-adjusted dog. Good luck with your training journey!
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