My GSD pup just turned 4 mos old. He loves to jump, onto and off of things. Although I make it a point to not let him, I have been unable to stop him on a few occasions, even while on leash. I was looking over junk mail on the hood of my car when as quick as a wink the pup, then 3 months, was up there, used the front bumper to get up. No way I would have thought he could do that so wasn't expecting to have to stop him. I did stop him from jumping down. Also on other occasions earlier than that, I had some boxes stacked up on back patio, no way thinking he could possibly jump on top of them, too high...he did and jumped off before I could grab the leash. Boxes are gone. He has jumped on and off coffee table (he's a naughty pup). He doesn't just step down, he takes a flying leap like he wants to see how far he can get. Even with the leash on, it's hard to stop him everytime. I'm very concerned about his bones and joints now. If anyone has any suggestions or concerns please voice them. Has he (or have I) messed up his joints??? I want him to be used to being in the house so keep him on a leash with my eye on him at all times (necessary with a pup anyway), crate at all other times. But he can jump from a sitting or standing position without any warning. I am glad of his love of jumping and ability but at the same time I'm worried cause he's doing it so much earlier than he should, and afraid he's already hurt himself and it just hasn't shown up yet. I guess if I have to keep him tethered to me at all times I will, but sure hope that isn't the only option, although can't think of any others. <img src="http://www.leerburg.com/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />
Help...

you answered your own question. Keep him tethered to you all the time or tether him to a location where there isn't anything to jump or climb on.

Simple.

All puppy stuff is a matter of controlling the environment, IMO. Much easier (and better for the puppy) than giving corrections or having to break bad habits.

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you answered your own question. Keep him tethered to you all the time or tether him to a location where there isn't anything to jump or climb on.

Simple.

All puppy stuff is a matter of controlling the environment, IMO. Much easier (and better for the puppy) than giving corrections or having to break bad habits.

Thanks Cindy, that's what I figured about the tethering. And yes about controlling the environment....I thought I had it under control, it just took me by surprise those times he jumped higher than expected he could. I already removed all lawn furniture.

He just seems to look for ways to jump, for instance the back patio is just 2 inches off the lawn, but he flies off it onto the lawn, trying to get as high as he can. He really does love flying. Good for later maybe, not for now.

But I really want to know if you and/or others think he may have weakened his joints or bones? I've never had a dog that jumped at so young an age so haven't had this worry before.