With their lively and exuberant nature, Jack Russell Terriers are a joy to have in the family. They’re intelligent, playful, and full of energy, making them great companions. However, like other breeds, Jack Russells have a common behavioral issue – jumping on people. Whether it’s out of excitement, to assert dominance, or simply to get a better view of their surroundings, this behavior can lead to problems, particularly when dealing with children or guests. Here are five strategies to help you teach your Jack Russell not to jump on people:
⚠️ 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 Early and Be Consistent
Training a Jack Russell not to jump on people is easier when you start while they are still young. As puppies, they are more amenable to learning new behaviors and rules. If you have an older Jack Russell, don’t worry. It’s never too late to train a dog; you just need to be patient and consistent.
Consistency is crucial when training a Jack Russell. If you let them jump on you sometimes, but not at other times, they’ll become confused about what is and isn’t acceptable behavior. Ensure all members of the family follow the same rules and use the same commands to avoid confusing the dog.
2. Ignore the Jumping
Your Jack Russell often jumps on you to get your attention. If you respond, even negatively, you’re reinforcing this behavior. The best response when your Jack Russell jumps on you is to ignore them completely. Turn your back, avoid eye contact, and don’t speak to them. As soon as they have all four feet on the ground, reward them with your attention. This teaches them that they only get attention when they’re not jumping.
3. Use a “Sit” Command
Teaching your Jack Russell to “sit” is a valuable command that can help control their jumping behavior. Practice this command frequently and in various situations so that your dog will respond even when they are excited or distracted. Remember to always reward good behavior with praise and a treat. Eventually, your Jack Russell will learn that sitting politely is more rewarding than jumping.
4. Distract and Redirect
A distraction technique can be useful when expecting a guest or when you’re about to enter a situation where your Jack Russell is likely to get excited and jump. Try to redirect their energy towards something more constructive, like a toy or a treat. This way, you divert their attention away from the person they are excited to see and reduce the chances of jumping.
5. Consider an Online Dog Training Course
Despite your best efforts, there may be times when you need additional help. An online dog training course can provide valuable insights and techniques to help manage your Jack Russell’s jumping behavior. These courses usually come with step-by-step video tutorials and advice from experienced trainers.
Online dog training courses allow you to learn at your own pace and in your own home, making it convenient for you and your dog. You’ll be able to refer back to the lessons as needed, and some courses even offer community support where you can share experiences and get tips from other dog owners. While I won’t recommend a specific course, it’s important to choose one that focuses on positive reinforcement methods, which are the most effective and humane training techniques.
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, teaching a Jack Russell not to jump on people can be a challenging task, but with patience, consistency, and the right techniques, it is certainly achievable. Remember, your goal is to create a positive and respectful relationship with your dog. Once your Jack Russell learns to greet people politely, it will lead to a more peaceful and enjoyable home environment for everyone.
Toledo, United States.
