How high can dogs jump? This is a common question that pet parents ask.
There are many reasons why dog owners might be curious about this, from wanting to know if their dogs are good jumpers and could clear agility course obstacles to wondering if their pet might be at risk for jumping over a fence and getting lost.
Whatever the reason behind your curiosity, this article will answer your questions!
So How High Can a Dog Jump?
Generally speaking, most dogs can jump up to one to three times their height, on average. Meaning a 1-foot tall dog can jump as high as 3 feet.
That’s not always the case, of course. Instead, the ability of a dog to jump is dependent upon several factors. The dog’s size is definitely one. Larger dogs are naturally capable of jumping higher than smaller dogs, and that is because they are taller and have longer legs.
Another critical factor in determining how high dogs can jump is age and overall health! Puppies are not always able to do what they can do as adults. The same holds true for older dogs, who may not be able to do what they once were due to their declining health.
The jumping ability of an individual dog also depends upon their motivation to do so. Those dogs who are more motivated to jump will generally be able to attain greater heights than those who are not as motivated, of course, provided that the size and age of the dog are the same.
The dog’s breed is yet another crucial factor. Certain dog breeds are more athletic and naturally better jumpers, while some are nowhere near as gifted. For instance, Border Collies and Greyhounds are known for their high jumping abilities and are considered to be among the best jumpers.
What Are the Highest Jumping Dog Breeds?
Want to know which dog breeds are the highest jumpers? Whether you are trying to avoid adopting one of these breeds or are trying to figure out which one might make the best jumper for whatever reason, here is a list of the ten highest jumping dogs. They are athletic and have powerful legs that give them the natural ability to jump high.
- Border Collie
- Greyhound
- Australian Shepherd
- German Shepherd
- Shetland Sheepdog
- Belgian Malinois
- Whippet
- Vizsla
- Weimaraner
- Jack Russell Terrier
What is the Highest Jump a Dog Has Ever Achieved?
According to the Guinness World Records, the highest a dog has ever jumped was 191.7 cm, which equates to 75.5 inches or 6.29 feet, achieved on the 14th September 2017, in Frederick, Maryland, USA. This incredible feat was accomplished by a female Greyhound named Feather.
Can My Dog Jump Over a 6-foot Fence?
Even the highest jumpers in the world can only jump to the height of just over 6 feet. So does that mean it’s unlikely your dog can get themselves over a 6-foot fence? And if you really think that’s the case, you may be wrong.
You have to understand that the world’s highest-jumping dog in the Guinness World Records jumps from a free-standing position.
Although your furry friend may not be able to jump over a 6-foot fence, that doesn’t mean they can’t pull themselves up and over it. In fact, smart, athletic dogs can leverage the side fence and propel themselves up and over the top, giving themselves the little boost they need to jump higher than they might on their own.
In other words, if your dog is determined enough to clear your 6-foot fence, they absolutely can do it. It just might take them a little bit of extra effort.
Check out this video. See how high the Belgian Malinois jumps with the aid of the wall.
Still not convinced and don’t believe me? Here’s another one, clearing an 8-foot tall fence.
Yes. While there’s no denying that dog didn’t actually “jump over” it but rather used the center railing for support and scaled the fence. But does it matter? That dog still manages to escape at the end of the day.
How to Keep My Dog From Jumping Over a Fence?
If you’re concerned about your dog jumping over a fence and getting lost, there are a few things you can do to help keep them from doing so.
First, you can put up a fence that’s at least 6-foot tall. Although some dogs can get over this height, it will definitely make it more difficult compared to, say, a 4-foot fence, especially if you have a smaller dog. Plus, it will take them a lot more effort and require more motivation to jump over it.
And when it comes to choosing a dog fence, try to select one that’s not easily scalable. For instance, a wooden privacy fence is much harder for dogs to get over than a chain-link fence. Why? Because there are no gaps or holes for them to grip with their claws and use as leverage to get themselves over.
Alternatively, you can install an invisible underground dog fence. These fences emit a warning tone when your dog gets too close to the boundary and deliver a static correction if they cross the line. The shock isn’t harmful but is unpleasant enough to keep most dogs from escaping. These fences are an excellent substitute for traditional fencing and are as effective.
Dogs that’s been given adequate exercise and mental stimulation are less likely to escape in search of adventure and excitement. So be sure to keep your canine well-exercised, including taking your pup for long walks, runs, and engaging in plenty of playtimes to keep them occupied and distracted from wanting to get out.
Lastly, always keep an eye on your pooch when they’re in the yard and make sure they’re not getting up to mischief. If you see them attempting to jump the fence, immediately correct them by saying “no” in a firm voice. With enough training and repetition, they will eventually learn jumping the fence is not allowed.
