Jumping on people can be a common behavior in Dachshunds, but with consistent training, you can teach them to greet people more politely. Here’s a guide to help you:
How to Teach Your Dachshund to Stop Jumping on People
Dachshunds are known for their exuberant personalities, but their jumping behavior can sometimes be overwhelming. Here’s a step-by-step guide to train your Dachshund to greet people politely:
1. Start Young
Ideally, start training when your Dachshund is still a puppy. However, it’s never too late to teach an adult Dachshund new manners.
2. Ignore the Jumping Behavior
When your Dachshund jumps, avoid reacting. This includes not making eye contact, not speaking, and certainly not petting. Dogs crave attention, so withdrawing it when they jump can be an effective deterrent.
3. Use Commands
Teach your Dachshund basic commands like “sit” and “stay.” Before guests arrive, have your Dachshund in a sit-stay position. Reinforce and reward this calm behavior.
4. Reward Calm Greetings
When your Dachshund greets someone without jumping, immediately reward them with treats and praise. Positive reinforcement strengthens the association between calm behavior and positive outcomes.
5. Consistent Responses
Ensure everyone in your household and guests are consistent in their responses. If one person allows jumping while another discourages it, it can confuse your Dachshund.
6. Use a Leash
If your Dachshund has a habit of jumping on people, consider using a leash during greetings. This gives you control and prevents them from jumping up.
7. Teach an Alternative Behavior
Channel your Dachshund’s energy into an alternative behavior. For example, train them to fetch a toy when guests arrive. This redirects their attention and provides a positive outlet for their excitement.
8. Practice with Different People
Expose your Dachshund to various people, including friends and family, so they generalize the behavior. Consistent training with different individuals helps your Dachshund understand that the rules apply to everyone.
9. Be Patient and Persistent
Changing behavior takes time. Be patient and consistent in your training efforts. If your Dachshund reverts to jumping, simply return to the basics of ignoring and reinforcing positive behavior.
10. Seek Professional Help if Needed
If your Dachshund’s jumping behavior persists despite your efforts, consider consulting with a professional dog trainer. They can provide personalized guidance and address any underlying issues contributing to the behavior.
Remember, teaching your Dachshund not to jump is about reinforcing the behaviors you want rather than focusing on what you don’t want. With time, patience, and positive reinforcement, you can have a well-mannered Dachshund that greets guests with a wagging tail and four paws on the ground.
