If you own a dog that tends to be excited, the situation can become uncontrollable when you receive visitors at home! Fortunately, you can train your dog to stay calm when visitors arrive. We’ve outlined the process for you here.
1. Stay calm
It’s hard for an excited dog to recognize the difference between anger and joy when your voice is loud while interacting with him. To keep a dog calm around guests, the first thing to do is to stay calm yourself.
2. Work on the greeting
Start by teaching your dog to do a down stay on a mat when a visitor comes to the door. Maintain control and help him to learn patience and remain calm. A leash is a great tool to use. Also train your guests to ignore him, otherwise he will be rewarded for his excitement.
3. Reinforce the behavior after the greeting
Your best defense for your dog to stay calm is establishing a portable, comfortable place that your dog associates with things he likes. This can be simply a dog bed, rug, or towel. Start this work at less exciting times. Reward your dog for good behavior on their bed while your guest is present, first by moving their mobile calm spot near to you. Give them a long lasting goodie to keep them busy.
4. Reward with treats
Put some treats by the door that is out of reach of your dog, but can easily be accessed when a guest comes over. When a guest comes in, treat your dog for sitting, and then immediately ask her to do another behavior, or simply to stay in the sit to await another treat or petting.
Try these with your dog and hopefully, with some time and patience, your dog will learn to greet your guests calmly and politely!
