The Weekly High Five 🐾

Hey Reader,
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Happy Holidays!
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I know you're busy with last minute preparations, so I'm keeping this short. But if your dog's been jumping all over your holiday guests, I need to tell you something that might surprise you.
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​The Real Reason Dogs Jump

Dogs don't jump because they're being bad or trying to dominate you.

They jump because it's fun.

And here's the kicker: we're the ones making it fun.

Think about what happens when your dog jumps. You probably say "no, no, no!" while pushing them away, moving your hands around, maybe even raising your voice.

To your dog? That's a game. You're engaging with them, moving around, making noise. That's exactly what they want.

We accidentally reward the very behavior we're trying to stop.

A Quick Fix for Today

If you have guests coming over in the next few days, try this: teach your visitors the "hand touch" technique.

When someone arrives, have them do a slight lean forward and put their hand out flat and low, around the dog's nose level, with an open palm. Most dogs are naturally curious and will touch the hand with their nose instead of jumping.

Why does this work? Because they can't jump up high if they're focused on touching a low hand. You're giving them something to do that's incompatible with jumping.

Once they touch the hand calmly, call them away and give them something to keep them busy, like a chew or toy, so they're not pestering guests the whole visit.

It's not a permanent fix, but it'll help you survive today's gatherings without your dog launching themselves at Aunt Carol.

What About Long-Term Solutions?

The hand touch technique will get you through today's gatherings. But here's the thing: jumping usually isn't just about guests at the door. It shows up when you're cooking, when you get home from work, when the kids are playing.

Each scenario needs a slightly different approach, and that's where most people get stuck. They fix one situation but the jumping pops up somewhere else.

That's exactly why I'm opening up my calendar for free 15 minute strategy calls in the new year. Not to sell you anything. Just to help you get clear on what's actually happening with your dog and what path makes sense for you.

Here's what we'll cover:

• Your top challenges – You'll share your biggest dog training struggles
• What you've tried – We'll review what solutions you've already attempted (DIY and professional)
• Your best path forward – We'll map out your next steps and what the right training path looks like for your dog's specific challenges

This call is for you if you:

• Want your bond with your dog to improve
• Want to actually enjoy life with your dog
• Are willing to work to make your life with your dog the best it can be
• Need help with consistent dog training

​>>> [Click Here to Book Your Free 15-Minute Call] <<<​

Spots may not be available until early January, but grab yours now so you can start 2026 with a clear plan instead of more frustration.

Happy Holidays, and here's to calmer greetings in the new year!

Pam,
CPDT-KA
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​P.S. Try the hand touch technique today and let me know how it goes. And when you're ready for real solutions in the new year, book your free call. Let's make 2026 your best year with your dog yet.