How to Train Your Dog to Jump Up

Teaching your dog to jump up gives you the opportunity to take the jumping one step further. You can teach him to jump through hoops, over hurdles, into your car or truck, as well as up on the bed or couch. Just to be on the safe side, before getting started training your dog to jump up, you should consider having his vet make sure his body has matured sufficiently not to be injured by jumping and that he is healthy enough.

While most breeds can be taught, at least to some extent, to jump, there are a few that should not be taught this particular trick such as those that have a long spine and short legs. This is because jumping puts them at risk of serious spinal injuries. If you are not sure, talk to your vet first. Others like Border Collies, German shepherds, and Spaniels are among the best jumpers. Remember, this trick is supposed to be fun for everyone, so make sure that the training is fun as well. 

Training your dog to jump up is the basis of several other jumping tricks, including jumping rope. Teaching him this can be just a natural extension of his natural instincts. Most dogs like to jump as part of play, a behavior thought to be leftover from their ancestors hunting through the forests and fields. The trick is not so much to teach him to jump (he already instinctually knows how), it is to train him to jump when you want him to do so. That's the hard part and yet it really isn't that difficult.

Most people use a simple single word command such as "Jump" or "Up" for this trick. Whatever word you plan to use to have your pooch jump, just make sure you stick to using the same command each time. If you keep changing the command word, your pup could easily end up being so confused he doesn’t know what to do. Remember, it is supposed to be fun. 

Getting started training your dog to jump up doesn't really take much in the way of preparation. Once you know your pup is mature and healthy enough to perform the trick, you just need a few supplies:

• Your pup: Gotta have the little guy to train him, right?
  
• Treats: No training is ever going to go right without a few treats.
  
• A quiet place to train him: You need a quiet place to train him free of distractions.
  
• Time and patience: You need plenty of both if you want his training to be successful.
  

The biggest thing to remember when it comes to training your dog to jump up is that the whole process from start to finish is supposed to be fun. Try being excited about the training and you'll find your pup will feel the same way. Jumping is exciting all on its own, but when you get excited as well, your pup will find this trick irresistible.