How Do I Stop My Doodle from Jumping on People?
Brookie and Bronxie Approved Tips!
If you're a doodle parent, you know the scene: someone walks through the door, and your sweet, curly-haired lovebug goes full kangaroo. Paws flying, tongue out, tail wagging like a propeller. It's adorable... until Grandma gets knocked over like a bowling pin.
So how do you get your doodle to keep all four paws on the floor? Let's get into it—with a little humor, a lot of love, and zero judgment (we’ve all been there).
Why Doodles Jump in the First Place
Doodles are social butterflies with springs in their legs. They jump because:
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They're excited to see you.
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They want attention.
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They're trying to get closer to your face (puppy kisses are the ultimate goal).
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It worked in the past—yep, you accidentally reinforced it.
Step 1: Ignore the Jumping (Yes, Really)
This one’s tough, but powerful.
👻 What to do: When your doodle jumps, turn your back. No eye contact. No talking. No touching. Nada.
🎃 Why it works: Your doodle wants attention. Removing it sends a clear message: “Jumping = no fun.”
⚠️ Important: This means everyone in your doodle’s life must be consistent. Otherwise, your pup will play the odds like a furry Vegas gambler.
Step 2: Reward Good Behavior (Paws on the Ground, Please!)
👻 What to do: As soon as your doodle sits or stands calmly, boom—attention, treats, praise, confetti (okay, maybe not confetti).
🎃 Bonus move: Teach a solid “sit” command and use it when people arrive. Sitting = gets the goodies.
Step 3: Practice with a “Human Parade”
No, you don't need to start your own Macy’s float.
👻 What to do: Recruit friends and family to come to your house (or simulate arrivals). Have your doodle on a leash. Practice the routine: calm greeting = love, jumping = invisible wall.
🎃 Pro tip: Start with calm visitors. Save the high-energy aunt who smells like bacon for later.
Step 4: Leash and Control the Chaos
If your doodle’s jumping is Olympic-level, keep them leashed when guests arrive.
👻 What to do: Step on the leash to prevent launching. Ask for a “sit” and reward the moment they’re calm.
🎃 This is management, not training—but it keeps Grandma safe while you teach the long-term skills.
What NOT to Do
🚫 Don’t knee your dog in the chest. It’s outdated, unnecessary, and not very doodle-mom/dad chic.
🚫 Don’t yell. To your doodle, it sounds like barking along.
🚫 Don’t assume they’ll “grow out of it.” Spoiler: they usually grow into it.
Keep It Positive, Keep It Consistent
Your doodle isn’t trying to be rude—they’re just thrilled to see you (and possibly to smell your snacks). With patience, practice, and a lot of treats, you can turn those jumpy greetings into polite tail wags and happy sits.
Brookie & Bronxie’s Final Bark:
“If you want to jump, go for agility training. Leave the guests alone unless they ask for doodle cuddles.”
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