Whippets, with their gentle temperament, playful spirit, and notable speed, are wonderful companions. However, their exuberant nature can sometimes translate into jumping behavior. This leaping habit may seem endearing but can pose problems, especially around young children, older people, or those with physical limitations. In this article, we’ll explore five effective strategies to help you teach your Whippet 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. Redirection
The first tactic in the playbook is to redirect your Whippet’s energy. If your dog is about to jump on you or is already in the process, guide them to more acceptable behavior. This could be a command like “sit,” or you could distract them with a toy. By doing so, you’re teaching your Whippet to focus their excitement elsewhere instead of expressing it by jumping up.
2. Ignore the Jumping
Dogs, including Whippets, thrive on attention. If your Whippet jumps on you, try to remove your attention completely. Turn your back and avoid eye contact, verbal communication, and physical contact. Once your Whippet has all four paws on the ground, reward them with the attention they seek. This teaches your pet that jumping results in isolation, while calm behavior brings positive attention.
3. Regular Exercise
Whippets have a natural need for speed and exercise, stemming from their heritage as sighthounds. Lack of exercise can lead to pent-up energy, which they might express by jumping up. To prevent this, ensure your Whippet has regular physical activity. This could be a brisk walk, a game of fetch, or an opportunity to run in a secure, fenced area. Remember, a tired Whippet is a well-behaved Whippet!
4. Structured Greetings
Whippets often jump on people during greetings due to their excitement. Therefore, it’s essential to have a structured greeting routine. Encourage your dog to sit whenever someone comes into the house. The visitor should only give attention to your Whippet when they are calm and sitting. If they jump up, the visitor should ignore them until they are back on the ground. Over time, your Whippet will learn that sitting politely results in attention while jumping doesn’t.
5. Online Dog Training Course
If the jumping persists and you’re finding it challenging to handle, it may be worth considering an online dog training course. These courses offer comprehensive, easy-to-follow guidance on various aspects of dog behavior, including the issue of jumping. You’ll gain insight into why dogs jump and learn effective methods to curb this behavior.
One of the key benefits of an online dog training course is its flexibility. You can learn at your own pace and schedule the training sessions according to your convenience. Additionally, these courses often include video demonstrations, which can make it easier to understand and implement the techniques at home.
While this article doesn’t endorse a specific course, there are numerous options available online. Choose a course that best fits your needs and those of your Whippet.
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.
Training your Whippet not to jump on people requires patience and consistency. Remember, all dogs learn at their own pace, so don’t be disheartened if progress seems slow. Stick to these tips, maintain a positive attitude, and before long, you’ll see a significant change in your dog’s behavior. Enjoy the journey towards a more respectful and well-mannered Whippet!
Toledo, United States.