Quick Answer: Ignore completely on arrival — no eye contact, no sound, turn away if they jump. The moment four paws hit the floor — greet warmly but calmly. Low-key arrivals teach low-key greetings. Dramatic homecomings teach dramatic greetings. The energy you bring through the door is the energy your dog offers back. Consistent calm arrivals from every family member resolves most homecoming jumping within 2-3 weeks.
Why the Homecoming Matters So Much
Dogs model their arousal level on yours. High-energy 'I missed you so much!' arrivals teach the dog that this is the expected emotional intensity of greetings. Matter-of-fact 'hey, good to see you' arrivals teach calm. This single habit change affects the entire greeting dynamic.
The Calm Arrival Protocol
- Open door calmly, no excited vocalizing
- If dog jumps — turn back, zero attention
- Wait for four paws on floor
- Calm praise — not explosive excitement
- Give them a frozen lick mat — channels the greeting energy into something calm and focused
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