How Do I Train My Dog Not to Jump or Bite Me?

Problem behavior in your dog can make the difference between your pet being a loved member of your family and him being a burden that your family does not enjoy. It is best to stop unwanted behavior while your dog is a puppy rather than waiting until he is older to correct things that were allowed before. If your dog is already grown, he can still be taught to stop jumping and biting.

Things You'll Need

  • Toys
  • Bones
  • Crate
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Instructions

  1. Stopping Jumping

    • 1

      Turn sideways quickly and avoid eye contact with the dog when he starts to jump. Do not speak, pet or otherwise give attention to your dog when he is jumping.

    • 2

      Stand completely still and continue avoiding interaction until your dog returns to the floor and stays there for at least five seconds.

    • 3

      Pet your dog and praise him once he is calmly on the floor. Give him a treat or spend a few minutes playing with him.

    • 4

      Train your dog to obey the sit command. Issuing the sit command as soon as you enter a room will prevent him from jumping on you.

    Stop Biting

    • 5

      Protest loudly when the dog nips you, even in play. Say "ouch" in a loud, firm voice.

    • 6

      Stop paying attention to the dog immediately so that he learns that nipping you will result in the end of playtime.

    • 7

      Place the dog in a crate or secure room alone if it nips a second time. Leave the dog in the time-out area for at least 10 minutes.

    • 8

      Avoid playing rough with the dog. It encourages nipping, since this is how a dog plays rough with other dogs.

    • 9

      Provide plenty of bones and toys that are acceptable for chewing, especially if the dog is young and may still be teething.