Dogs have many ways of expressing themselves, and jumping is one of those ways. While it can be frustrating for dog owners to deal with a dog that begins jumping, seemingly on a whim for no reason, there is typically something fueling the behavior. Remember, just because we can’t understand something our dog does isn’t an immediate indicator that it doesn’t make sense.
There are many ways to fix undesirable behavior that our pooches present, but finding the root of the problem is imperative to eradicating it. When you understand your dog, you have a better grasp of its behavioral displays.
Lack of communication is at the basis of all human and canine misunderstandings. If you’ve found yourself asking why does my dog suddenly jump, the reason may be right in front of you. It’s always best to look at a situation with a fresh pair of eyes, so let’s get started!
Why does my dog suddenly jump?
If your dog has gone from keeping four paws on the floor at all times to jumping up on you whenever he gets the chance, there could be a more significant issue at hand than a bit of excitement to see you. We expect this behavior from dogs that have always jumped and those that were never taught to stay down, but not from those that typically stay down, even in the face of intense stimulation.
Excitement
Excited dogs jump; this is a fact. Dogs usually greet each other face to face; a custom passed down from their ancestors. Wolves also say hello in this manner, so it’s an instinct for your dog to want to put his face right in yours every time you come home, which makes jumping a problem for many puppies and young dogs.
We can usually train the jumping out of them by showing them that we will say hello the way they’d like when they calm down and sit. However, a super excited dog will have far too much trouble sitting down, and in many cases, he will fuel his own excitement, making for a crazy jumping machine.
Many excited dogs tend to shake in order to exude the energy they’re feeling, but if they can’t contain it, jumping up is bound to happen. If your pup has recently started jumping on you when you get home, it could be that he isn’t getting enough attention from you when you are home.
Review your schedule and make space to spend time with your pup, whether it be tossing a ball in the yard or heading out for a walk. With positive reinforcement, this behavior should change over time.
Not enough exercise
Dogs that spend a lot of time cooped up may jump uncontrollably. If the behavior is new, try taking your dog out before you go to work and when you get home, no matter the weather. Dogs are a huge commitment, and ensuring that they get enough exercise is part of the commitment.
Many breeds, such as Huskies and American Pit Bull Terriers, are notorious for having a lot of energy. If they’re not provided with mental and physical outlets to release that energy, they’re going to develop destructive behaviors, such as jumping!
Attention
Many dogs jump because they want attention. Unfortunately, when you provide them with that attention while they’re jumping, they’ll continue to jump. When jumping gets out of hand, don’t be afraid to contact a professional trainer. They’ve heard and seen it all, and they’ll be happy to help you and your pup establish a peaceful living situation once again!
Improper training
Many rescue dogs never receive the training they need when they’re puppies. Rescues and shelters will attempt to work with them, but they’re often not fully trained before they go home. This fact is usually communicated to the adopter, so if you find yourself in a jumpy rescue dog position, take solace that it won’t take too much training to change it. In most cases, the rescue will work alongside you to provide a desirable outcome for all!
Why does my dog jump when sleeping?
If your dog is sleep-jumping, then you’ve got a severe problem! Jokes aside, we’ll assume you mean why does your dog jumps in alarm while sleeping. These slight jumps and shakes that take place when a dog is sleeping can come from dreams or noises that might startle them but not bring them to a place where they’re fully awake.
It can be concerning to watch your dog jump about when asleep, but don’t worry too much; this behavior is totally normal. If you have a hard time waking your dog or feel something is not quite right, never hesitate to call your vet.
Why does my dog jump while laying down?
Your dog might jump while laying down for a few reasons. Typically, it’s because they’re annoyed by something, perhaps a bug or sound, making them jump side to side without actually standing up. Most dogs that jump while lying down aren’t startled enough to stand up but simply irritated at something in their space.
Why does my dog randomly jump on me?
Most dogs that jump at random times are looking for attention and nothing more. Dogs can only communicate what they want to us through body language and barking. There is no other way for them to get what they want.
If we’re failing to pay attention, at some point, your pup is going to become frustrated and jump on you. Take note of the times that your dog tends to jump on you randomly. Ask yourself what time of day it is and if they need to go out or they’re hungry.
So often, this random jumping can be fixed by paying attention to what your dog needs or, even better, keeping them on a fixed schedule. Try not to get too upset with your dog for jumping up. It’s a fixable behavior, and in all honesty, they’re trying to tell you something!