Having guests over can be wildly exciting for your dog, but here’s the trick: good door manners start with mastering the basics in everyday life! Want your dog to greet people calmly? Try these fun and simple tips:
• Stay Cool and Collected: When you come home, don’t make a big, excited fuss over your dog. Ignore them until they’ve calmed down, and once they’re sitting nicely, that’s when they earn your love and attention! They will learn that calm behavior gets the reward.
• Place, Place, and More Place: The “place” command is your best friend! The more your dog practices staying on their bed or mat in a down-stay, the easier it’ll be when guests arrive. Mastering this command will help eliminate issues like jumping and getting over-excited.
• Use Your Leash: Keep your dog on a leash when guests come over for added control. Have your guests ignore your dog until they’re calm. This teaches your pup that calm behavior brings attention, not jumping or barking.
And if a big family gathering is too overwhelming, that’s okay! Let your dog relax in their crate where they feel safe and can enjoy the event stress-free.
Start with these steps, and soon your dog will be the calmest, best-behaved greeter in the neighborhood!
