The Shiba Inu, with its confident personality and fiery spirit, is an endearing breed that is highly valued in Japan and increasingly popular worldwide. However, their high-energy nature can sometimes lead to enthusiastic jumping when greeting people. If your Shiba Inu has developed a habit of jumping on people, here are five effective tips to help control this behavior.
⚠️ Note: While the tips below should get you started, it’s important to realize that for best results, you should take your German Shepherd through a more complete dog training course. Consider looking into an online training course that specifically addresses jumping (we like SpiritDog’s “Focus” course or K9 Institute’s Dog Masterclass)
1. Utilize Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a core principle in successful dog training. It involves rewarding your dog for the behaviors you want them to repeat. Whenever your Shiba Inu greets someone without jumping, immediately reward them. The reward can be a tasty treat, their favorite toy, or simply a loving pat. Over time, your Shiba Inu will learn that keeping all four paws on the ground during greetings is more rewarding.
2. Teach Basic Commands
Teaching your Shiba Inu basic commands like ‘sit’ and ‘off’ can significantly curb their jumping behavior. Before greeting someone, instruct your Shiba Inu to ‘sit’ and reward them when they comply. If they jump, use the ‘off’ command and gently guide them back to the ground if needed. Consistent reinforcement of these commands will help manage their greeting behavior.
3. Employ the Ignore Technique
Jumping is often a dog’s way of seeking attention. By ignoring your Shiba Inu when they jump, you communicate that this behavior does not garner the attention they seek. If your Shiba Inu jumps, turn your back, avoid eye contact, and withhold any interaction until they calm down and all four paws are firmly on the ground. This strategy sends the message that calm behavior earns attention.
4. Implement Time-Outs
If the ignore technique isn’t enough to dissuade the jumping, consider using time-outs. If your Shiba Inu jumps, calmly guide them to a quiet, safe space where they can settle down. This isn’t a punishment; it’s an opportunity for them to understand that jumping disrupts their social interactions.
5. Try an Online Dog Training Course
Lastly, consider signing up for an online dog training course. These courses offer thorough, step-by-step guidance developed by experienced dog trainers to help manage a variety of behavioral issues, including jumping.
One major advantage of online dog training courses is their flexibility. You can progress at your own pace, and you can learn in the comfort of your own home. These courses usually include video demonstrations, written instructions, and community forums for discussing your challenges with other dog owners facing similar issues.
Our 2 favorite courses that address dogs jumping on people are:
1. SpiritDog’s Focus Course (best on a budget)
The “Focus in Public – Out and About” course by SpiritDog Training, led by expert trainer Steffi Trott, is designed to help dog owners improve their pets’ behavior in public. The course includes 21 lessons covering topics such as achieving full dog engagement, training perfect heels, teaching dogs to settle on a mat anywhere, and playing fun games in public places. The course has lifetime access and a 60-day money-back guarantee.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass” (best overall)
More than just a course that teaches your dog not to jump, this more comprehensive training class tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.
In conclusion, teaching your Shiba Inu not to jump on people requires consistency, patience, and an emphasis on positive reinforcement. Each dog learns at their own pace, so be patient and celebrate each small victory. With the help of these strategies, as well as additional resources like online training courses, your Shiba Inu will learn to greet people calmly, making them an even more delightful companion.