Question: Jasper, my two-year-old Labrador retriever, often jumps on me, but I’m more concerned that he might jump on someone else and injure them. What do you recommend?
Answer: Jasper is jumping on you to get attention. So, teach him what to do instead. The first step is to ignore him whenever he jumps on you, so he learns that jumping is not the way to get your attention. Don’t make eye contact; don’t touch him; and don’t speak to him. Ask him to sit. The moment he sits, praise him and pet him. When he jumps on you again, ignore him — every time. He will soon learn how to gain your attention.
Your job will be easier if you recognize that Jasper’s excess energy may interfere with his ability to focus. So, tire him out by having him retrieve balls or romp at the dog park.
If you teach Jasper how to get your attention without jumping on you and help him run off his excess energy, he’ll make “four on the floor” a habit.
Ask the Vet is written by veterinarian Lee Pickett, VMD. Send questions to [email protected] and read more at saturdayeveningpost.com/ask-the-vet.
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