Chewing, digging, jumping
How do I stop my dog jumping on children?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Treat this as a safety priority, not just a manners issue, since even a friendly jump can knock a small child over. Manage every interaction with a lead or a physical barrier until training is solid, and teach children to stand still and turn away rather than run or squeal.
Why children get jumped on more
Children move quickly, squeal, and are closer to a dog's own height, all of which reads as exciting play to a dog rather than a formal greeting, making jumping far more likely with kids than with calm adults.
Managing the interaction
Keep your dog on lead during any greeting with children, and ask kids to become a statue, stand still, arms folded, looking away, rather than running or making high pitched noises that ramp excitement up further.
Building the habit over time
Practice calm greetings in short, low arousal sessions, rewarding your dog generously for four paws on the floor near a child. Increase the excitement level gradually only once the calm version is reliable in easier settings.
Key takeaways
- Jumping around children is a safety issue first, since even a friendly dog can knock a child over.
- Children's quick movement and high voices tend to increase a dog's excitement and jumping.
- Managed lead greetings and a still, quiet child build the calm habit faster than free interactions.