Since dogs generally greet each other through nose-to-nose contact, there is no reason why they shouldn't do the same thing with people. There are various techniques you can try so your dog won't jump up on unsuspecting guests. One thing is certain: never pet your dog when he or she jumps on someone. Petting him is a sign of approval and you are sending him a mixed message. Below are three techniques that seem to work very well.

As soon as the dog jumps up, stand tall, look straight ahead, pull your hands up by your chest, say “sit,” and wait for the dog to sit. When the dog does sit, immediately look at the dog, kneel down, and calmly stroke the dog. If the dog jumps up again, stand up and repeat the steps.

The second technique involves standing tall, looking straight ahead, pulling your hands up by your chest, and saying “off”. When the dog jumps on you, turn your body toward the wall so the dog can't reach your face. Another option is to step back outside the door and close the door in the dog's face (you need to leave it open a crack). Say “sit.” When the dog sits, turn to face the dog, kneel down, and calmly stroke the dog. If the dog jumps up again, stand up, turn, and repeat the steps.

The third technique is a follows. Stand tall, look straight ahead, pull your hands up by your chest, say “off,” and continue walking into the dog. The dog will jump back to get out of your way. When all feet are on the floor, say “sit” and wait. When the dog sits, kneel down and calmly stroke the dog. If the dog jumps up again, stand up, walk toward him, and repeat the steps.

You should never allow your dog to jump up on people. This can be dangerous, especially if you have a large dog and children are in the vicinity. A puppy eventually grows into a full size dog. Labrador and golden retriever puppies sometimes weigh more than 100 lbs. when they reach full adult size.