Training Tips to Prevent Door-Dashing and Over-Excitement Around Guests
Taking the Lead • December 5, 2025
Holiday gatherings are full of excitement, but for many dogs, the door opening or the arrival of guests can trigger jumping, rushing, or even counter surfing. With consistent training, you can help your dog stay safe and greet guests politely. Here’s how:
1. Door Manners
Preventing door-dashing is essential for your dog’s safety. Teach your dog to wait calmly before entering or exiting through doors.
The Exercise:
- Ask your dog to sit before you open the door.
- Only allow them through once they are calm and sitting.
- If they break early, close the door and try again.
- Reward calm behavior consistently.
2. Prevent Counter Surfing
Counter surfing is self-rewarding for dogs—they get what they want! Teaching them to stay off counters builds impulse control and prevents unsafe behavior.
The Exercise:
- Gently tug on a leash or tap on your collar to bring your dog back to the ground if their paws touch the counter.
- Reward if they stay off the counters entirely.
- Remove temptations by keeping counters clear when you’re not actively training.
3. Polite Greetings with Guests
Excited jumping and rushing can make greetings stressful. Teaching polite behavior helps your dog feel confident and controlled.
The Exercise:
- Ask your dog to sit before greeting a visitor.
- Have guests ignore your dog until they are calm.
- Release your dog with a cue like “Break” to greet politely.
- Reset if your dog jumps or rushes and try again.
- Polite greetings = no jumping, no pulling, no rushing.
4. General Calm Behavior
Encourage your dog to settle during busy times:
- Provide a comfortable spot or mat where your dog can relax.
- Reward Place command with treats.
- Consistency is key—practicing regularly helps these behaviors become routine.
By teaching door manners, controlled greetings, and impulse control, you’ll help your dog enjoy the holidays safely and politely—making visits more joyful for everyone.
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