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The Aeroplane Game for no jumping
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This resource is a special perk for our members. To join us, first is to book one of our services. If you’re already a member, log in to enjoy full access.
The Aeroplane Game is a brilliant way to teach your dog lovely, polite manners and encourage them to keep “four paws on the floor” when they’re excited. It uses a fun technique to build fantastic self-control, which is perfect for preventing jumping when guests arrive or when you’re holding something interesting!
With practice this will help you achieve:
- Calmly taking treats
- Preventing jumping for food
- Polite greetings with food
What you'll need
- Your dog’s happy cooperation!
- Some really high-value, super-tasty treats (small and easy to eat)
- A quiet, low-distraction space to start (like your kitchen)
Step-by-step
- Start high, slow then fast: Begin by holding a treat above your dog’s head. Slowly bring it down halfway, then quickly deliver the last bit to their mouth while they keep all four paws on the floor.
- Reward the stillness: The key is to reward them only when they’re not jumping. If they jump up, just bring the treat back up and out of reach. Wait for them to offer a moment of calm, then try again.
- Gradual downward movement: Keep practicing bringing the treat down. Slowly bring it closer to their nose, always rewarding for calm. If they jump, the treat goes back up out of reach!
Top tips for success
- Your treats have to be super motivating! Make them irresistible.
- Be super consistent: if they jump, the treat goes back up. Calm equals treats!
- Keep your training sessions short, happy, and positive to build enthusiasm.
- Focus on rewarding the “four paws on the floor” behaviour, not just the sit (unless you’re specifically asking for a sit).
Members only
This resource is a special perk for our members. To join us, first is to book one of our services. If you’re already a member, log in to enjoy full access.
Struggling with a jumpy, excited dog?
It can be a bit overwhelming when your dog's excitement means they're jumping all over you or your guests! If you're looking for a positive way to build calmer, more polite manners, I'm based in Epsom and here to help. A fun, personalised One-to-One session can transform those bouncy greetings into happy and relaxed moments.
