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Does Your Dog Love to Greet Guests With a Jump?

Having a dog who loves to jump up as soon as someone comes to the door is very common. They’re often just full of excitement to meet a new friend or eager to get your attention. Sometimes, they might even be trying to guard their home.

But let's be honest, as much as we love our dogs, this can be bothersome. It might even be risky if the person at the door is carrying something or is a bit wobbly. Don't worry though, there's a sweet and simple way to help this situation, and it involves something fun called a snuffle mat!

The Magic of Snuffle Mats

Juliana DeWillems, a friendly dog trainer and the creator of JW Dog Training & Behavior, recently shared an awesome idea on Instagram about using snuffle mats. We couldn't wait to give it a try!

• What’s a Snuffle Mat? It’s a mat where you can hide treats, turning snack time into a playful hunt, and yes, dogs absolutely love them!
• How to Use It: Place the mat by your door. Juliana suggests sprinkling treats on the mat when someone knocks or arrives. This helps your furry friend focus on the treats and not on your visitors. It’s like a fun distraction!
• Make it a Game: Use your dog's favorite treats on the mat. Practice this little game with your pup every day to familiarize them with the new routine. When there are no guests, use regular dog food or kibble instead of high-value treats.

More Than Just Entertainment

Snuffle mats do more than keep your pup busy. They also:

• Spark curiosity by using their wonderful sense of smell.
• Provide mental exercise that keeps them lively and less bored.
• Help burn off energy; even 15 minutes of sniffing out treats on the mat can feel like a full-hour walk, which is great for everyone!

Tips for a Smooth Visit

To make visits smoother, it's good to let guests know in advance about your dog's jumping habit. While your best friend might love the enthusiastic greeting, others, like the mailman or grandma, might not be as thrilled.

And if you're curious to hear about more ways to help your dog with jumping, there’s great advice in this article: “I Tried Everything to Get My Dog to Stop Jumping Up, Here’s What Actually Worked.”

Embrace the Joy of Pets

Remember, pets bring so much warmth and happiness to our lives. If you don’t have a pet yet, think about welcoming one into your home. They bring love, laughter, and lots of cuddles!