Shar Peis are an ancient breed, known for their distinctive wrinkled skin and a loyal, yet independent nature. However, like other dogs, they may sometimes develop habits like jumping on people. If you’re facing this challenge, here are five effective strategies to help teach your Shar Pei 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. Positive Reinforcement
At the heart of effective dog training is the principle of positive reinforcement, which involves encouraging good behaviors rather than merely punishing the bad. Every time your Shar Pei greets someone without jumping, reward them promptly. This reward could be a treat, a favorite toy, or verbal praise. By consistently rewarding their good behavior, your Shar Pei will understand that keeping all four paws on the ground leads to positive outcomes.
2. Teach Basic Commands
Commands such as ‘sit’ and ‘off’ can greatly help control your dog’s jumping behavior. Start by teaching your Shar Pei to ‘sit’ when they are about to greet someone. Be ready to provide a reward when they comply. If they jump, use the ‘off’ command and guide them back to the ground, if necessary. With regular practice and reinforcement, these commands will help manage your dog’s behavior.
3. Implement the Ignore Technique
Dogs often jump because they are seeking attention. If your Shar Pei jumps, try ignoring them to communicate that this behavior will not get them the attention they desire. When they jump, turn your back, avoid eye contact, and withhold interaction. Once they have settled down and all four paws are back on the ground, then you can give them the attention they were seeking.
4. Use Time-Outs
If the ignore technique doesn’t sufficiently curb the jumping, consider introducing time-outs. If your Shar Pei jumps, calmly guide them to a quiet, safe space where they can settle down. This is not a punishment, but a chance for your dog to calm down and understand that jumping disrupts their social interactions.
5. Consider an Online Dog Training Course
Lastly, you might want to try an online dog training course. These courses offer strategies and detailed instructions, developed by experienced trainers, on managing various behavioral issues, including jumping.
One of the key advantages of online dog training courses is their convenience. You can learn at your own pace, whenever it suits you, from the comfort of your home. These courses usually feature video demonstrations, written materials, and community forums where you can interact with other dog owners dealing with similar challenges.
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 summary, teaching your Shar Pei not to jump on people requires patience, consistency, and commitment to positive reinforcement. Every dog learns at their own pace, so remember to celebrate each small victory along the way. By consistently reinforcing the behaviors you want to see, your Shar Pei will learn that calm and respectful greeting are the best way to interact with people. With these strategies and your dedicated effort, your Shar Pei will soon learn to greet people politely, making them a more enjoyable companion.
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