St. Bernards are known for their gentle nature and impressive size. But this combination can sometimes lead to challenges when your big, friendly dog excitedly jumps on people. Here are five effective tips to help teach your St. Bernard 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. Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a cornerstone of effective dog training. Instead of punishing your St. Bernard for jumping, focus on rewarding the behaviors you want to see. Provide a treat, verbal praise, or a favorite toy when your dog greets people without jumping. This practice will teach your St. Bernard that they receive rewards for calm behavior, not for jumping.
2. Teach Basic Commands
Training your St. Bernard to understand and obey basic commands like ‘sit’ and ‘off’ can significantly curb jumping behavior. When your dog is about to greet someone, give the ‘sit’ command. Give immediate rewards when they obey. If they jump, use the ‘off’ command and gently guide them to the ground if necessary, rewarding them when they obey. With consistent practice, your dog will learn to greet people politely.
3. Implement the Ignore Technique
Dogs often jump up because they crave attention. Ignoring your St. Bernard when they jump can help communicate that jumping does not yield the attention they desire. When your dog jumps, turn your back, avoid eye contact, and cease all interaction. Only when your dog is calm and all four paws are on the ground should you give them attention.
4. Use Time-Outs
If ignoring the jumping doesn’t curtail the behavior, you might consider introducing time-outs. When your St. Bernard jumps, calmly lead them to a quiet, safe space where they can calm down. This isn’t a punishment but rather an opportunity for your dog to cool down and learn that jumping disrupts their social interaction.
5. Consider an Online Dog Training Course
Finally, signing up for an online dog training course could be helpful. These courses are often designed by experienced dog trainers and offer practical strategies and detailed instructions for addressing various behavioral issues, including jumping.
One of the main advantages of online dog training courses is their convenience. You can progress at your own pace and in the comfort of your home. These courses typically include video demonstrations, written content, and community forums, allowing you to connect with other dog owners facing 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.
Teaching your St. Bernard not to jump on people is a process that requires patience, consistency, and a commitment to positive reinforcement. Every dog learns at their own pace, so it’s crucial to be patient and celebrate small victories along the way. By reinforcing the behaviors you want to see, you will help your St. Bernard understand that calm, respectful greetings are the best way to interact with people. With these tips and your commitment, your St. Bernard will be on their way to offering polite and calm greetings, enhancing the joy of their companionship for everyone involved.
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