Why Dogs Jump on Furniture
Dogs have a natural instinct to seek heights due to their ancestry as hunters. According to the AKC, “climbing to higher ground allowed dogs in the wild to spot potential prey and survey their territory for intruders” (https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/why-does-my-dog-jump-on-furniture/).
Jumping on furniture allows dogs to explore their environment. They are curious animals that like to investigate their surroundings. Being up on the couch gives them a new vantage point to take in sights, sounds and smells.
Dogs also jump up for attention. They want to be close to their owners and family members. Sitting next to you on the couch puts them in prime petting position.
Lastly, dogs find couches and beds comfortable places to rest. They are soft, warm and provide a nice napping spot. Dogs like being able to fully relax on the furniture just as humans do.
When Dog Jumping Starts
Dogs often start jumping on furniture at a young age according to https://advicepaw.com/when-do-dogs-learn-to-jump-on-couch/. As puppies, dogs have a natural curiosity and excitement about exploring new things. They may attempt jumping up on furniture as early as 8 weeks old. However, puppies under 4 months old often lack the coordination and strength to successfully jump up until they are more fully grown.
Two common times dogs start jumping on furniture are when left alone and when excited. Puppies and untrained dogs left unsupervised will often explore and try jumping on couches, beds, and other furniture simply out of boredom and curiosity. Additionally, when dogs get very excited, such as when greeting owners at the door or when they spot food, they may impulsively jump up. Their enthusiasm overrides any training in that moment.
Potential Problems with Jumping
There are many potential issues that can arise from a dog frequently jumping on furniture. One of the most common problems and annoyances is excessive dog hair and dirt getting on the furniture. Dogs naturally carry dirt and outdoor debris on their paws and fur from daily walks and activities. When they jump up on couches, beds, and other living room furniture, they can leave behind substantial amounts of hair, dirt, mud, and odors (Source). This can lead to unsightly buildup on fabrics and cushions, requiring much more frequent cleaning and maintenance.
Scratching or damage from dogs’ nails and claws is another common issue with frequent jumping. Hardwood floors, leather sofas, and other surfaces can easily get scratched up over time with a dog leaping on and off. Pets may also sometimes tear upholstery or damage weaker frames when getting excited and jumping without care. For senior citizens or owners with mobility issues, having a large dog suddenly jump can also present physical risks of falling or losing balance if they are unprepared for the moment of impact (Source). The unexpected behavior may also bother or frighten some guests in the home who do not wish to interact closely with the dog.
Training to Stop Jumping
One of the most effective ways to train a dog not to jump on furniture is to reward them for having four paws on the floor. This technique helps reinforce that keeping all four paws on the ground, rather than jumping up, is the desired behavior. Immediately reward with praise and/or treats any time your dog has four paws on the floor near furniture. Be consistent and patient, rewarding every time they resist the urge to jump up (Source).
It can also be helpful to block access to furniture like couches or beds. Close doors to rooms with furniture you want to keep off-limits, use baby gates, or place cushions strategically on furniture to remove access and temptation. If your dog tries jumping up, calmly guide them back to the floor and reward four on the floor behavior. Over time, gradually allow short periods of couch access for good behavior (Source).
Teaching an “off” command is another useful technique. Start by placing a treat on the couch and allowing your dog to take it. Before they have a chance to settle on the furniture, say “off” and guide them gently to the floor. Reward with treats and praise once all four paws are on the ground. With practice, they will learn to associate the “off” command with getting off of furniture.
Alternatives for Dogs
There are some alternatives to allowing dogs free access to jumping on furniture that can provide them a comfortable place to relax without compromising furniture or safety.
Placing a comfortable dog bed on the floor near where family members gather can give a dog their own designated spot to lay down. This is better suited for dogs prone to joint injuries or who have trouble controlling their jumping.
For dogs who enjoy being up high, providing a ramp for couch access allows them to still get elevated while avoiding the impact of jumping up. Ramps can be purchased or DIY’d to provide sturdy and safe access.
Some pet stores also sell cat trees, perches, and steps that can be modified for use by dogs. These provide different levels the dog can climb to and lounge on without accessing furniture.
When to Allow Couch Access
While many dog owners have strong feelings about whether dogs should be allowed on furniture, there are some circumstances where allowing couch access can be appropriate:
When calm and invited. Allow dogs on furniture at calm times when they can relax, rather than when excited or playful. Wait for them to settle down, then invite them up. Teaching them to only get on furniture when given permission helps reduce unwanted jumping.
With a blanket down. To protect furniture from dirt, fur, and damage, consider allowing access only if there is a dog blanket or cover laid out first. This also defines a dog’s space.
If dog is elderly/arthritic. As dogs age and develop joint issues, easily accessed resting places become important. Allowing senior or arthritic dogs on couches or beds can provide comfort and improve quality of life. However, provide ramps, steps or assistance getting up and down when needed.
Signs of Problematic Jumping
Jumping on and off furniture becomes problematic when it happens too frequently, leads to rough landings, or bothers people in the home. Some signs that a dog’s jumping habits have become problematic include:
Excessive Frequency: Dogs that jump on and off furniture many times a day, especially large or senior dogs, can put undue strain on their joints over time. This is especially true for repetitive jumping like leaping on and off a couch when excited (doggoramps.com).
Rough Landings: Dogs that jump and land heavily or awkwardly risk injury over time. Hard landings from heights like beds or couches can lead to joint, muscle, or ligament damage (countrylife.co.uk).
Bothering People: Excessive jumping up can bother or scratch people, especially children or elderly visitors. Dogs that jump on guests or family members uninvited should be trained not to do so.
Seeking Professional Help
In some cases, it can be challenging to get a dog’s jumping behavior under control on your own. Consider seeking professional help from a certified dog trainer or animal behaviorist if your dog’s jumping seems uncontrollable or is paired with other problematic behaviors.
Signs that professional assistance may be warranted include:
- Your dog jumps excessively, even with consistent training
- Jumping happens alongside signs of aggression like snapping or biting
- You’ve tried various techniques without lasting improvement
- Jumping causes harm to people or destruction of property
- Your dog has other behavioral issues like separation anxiety or fearfulness
An experienced dog trainer can observe your pet’s behavior and suggest tailored training methods and management solutions. They can identify what motivates the jumping and how to curb it through positive reinforcement techniques. Medications may also help in certain cases, if recommended by a veterinary behaviorist.
Don’t hesitate to get professional support if you’re unable to resolve your dog’s jumping habit. A consultant can provide the extra guidance needed to get your dog’s paws back on the floor.
Preventive Training as a Puppy
When puppies are young, its important to get ahead of the problem by teaching them proper rules and behaviors around furniture. Start by teaching your puppy the ‘off’ command and rewarding them when they get back down on the floor (source). Have treats ready and use a firm but calm voice when giving the command. Immediately reward calm behavior on the floor.
It’s also crucial to set boundaries early when your puppy first explores furniture. If you want to allow access later, start by blocking off couches and beds so they learn these are not play zones. Reward desired calmness like resting on a dog bed instead. Preventing access helps reinforce good habits from the outset (source).
Furniture Covers and Protectors
Furniture covers and protectors can help protect your furniture from damage caused by dogs jumping up on them. Some options to consider include:
Washable covers – Look for covers made of durable, machine-washable fabrics like microfiber or quilted polyester. Companies like Sure Fit and Molly Mutt offer a variety of washable couch covers and protectors.
Anti-scratch tape – Clear double-sided tapes like Sticky Paws can be applied to furniture edges and surfaces to discourage scratching. The sticky feeling on a dog’s paws when they jump up helps deter the behavior.
Block access – Use furniture covers or removable gates to block access to certain furniture like chairs and cushions when you can’t actively supervise. This prevents the opportunity for jumping up.
Furniture covers provide a layer of protection between pets and upholstery while still allowing them approved access. Washable, water-resistant materials stand up well to daily wear and tear.