Should you pet a dog that jumps on you? Why?

• A. Yes, to be friendly.
• B. Only if the dog is calm.
• C. No, because the dog will learn invading your space means praise.
• D. Only with the owner’s permission.

Answer: (C)

Jumping is a dog’s way of seeking attention or a greeting, and petting during that moment acts as a reward. When you reward the jump by petting, the dog learns that invading your space brings the desired interaction, so the behavior is likely to happen again. To stop this pattern, don’t pet them while they’re jumping. Instead, wait until all four paws are on the ground and the body is calm, then greet or pet gently. If you’re interacting with a dog you don’t own, it’s wise to follow the owner’s guidelines, but the core idea remains the same: don’t reinforce jumping with petting.