French Bulldog Jumping on you? How To Train a Dog not to jump

My French Bulldog Augie had a jumping problem.  Every time a member of our family walked into the house he would jump on us.  It was cute at first but the older, and bigger, he got the worse a problem it became.  I had to reach out to my dog trainer friend and find out how to train a dog not to jump. 

She explained to me that jumping is an outward expression of a French Bulldog’s enthusiasm towards people, but it can be irritating and down right hazardous to others.  While French bulldogs are not known for their aggressiveness, there is always a chance that your pet may leap at a child or senior citizen and knock them to the ground.  Additionally, it’s just plain embarrassing to have a dog jumping all over anyone he runs into on his walks.  Therefore, it is well worth the effort to train your Frenchie friend not to jump up.

Why Dogs Jump On People and How To Train a Dog Not To Jump 

In most cases, dogs jump on people to demonstrate friendliness and enthusiasm.  Owners are hard pressed to discourage this behavior, since they enjoy their canine’s affection, especially after a hard day’s work.  Yet, curbing your own enthusiasm is key to dialing down your dog.  So stop encouraging such behavior by embracing your French bulldog only if he is firmly grounded.

Here’s a Video From Dog Train Zak George On How To Teach Dog Not To Jump

With canines, you must entice the dog to commit to the “Not jump” action before introducing the formal command to him.  Ironically, your French bulldog will still have to jump to allow you to teach the desired behavior.

Among the techniques you can use during training is to interrupt the dog’s jumping pattern and ask them to sit, rewarding with a treat initially.  

1. Initiate your French Bulldog’s jumping behavior.
2. As the dog elevates, cut the jump off and make your “Not jump” call.
3. Praise and reward your dog when he goes to all fours.

French Bulldogs are usually short and stocky, so the kneeing technique may not always be the best one to use.  I prefer the more humane way of discouraging jumping that Zak teaches in his video above.   In this case, consider using a leash and collar for training.  For example, tug the collar sideways as the dog starts his jump.  At the same time, say your command.  This should have the effect of distracting your dog and keeping him grounded.  Reward him immediately.

Avoid using the word “Down” if you already use it for the “Lay Down” or “Lie Down” command.  “Off” is a possibility, but any short (one syllable) word can work provided it does not confuse your canine.

Be persistent with your “Not jump” command.  Learn your French Bulldog’s jumping tendencies, especially around others, so that you can interject with the special command.   Finding a dog trainer that does house visits can really help too if you need some professional guidance.  See if a friend or several friends can help you train your dog on occasion.  Practice your canine “mind reading” – and earn the praise of one-time jump victims!