Male and female dogs hump buddies due to sexual instinct, to play, or to command control. Call us if this has become a habit for your pet.
Is there anything more awkward than your dog humping another dog at the park? Perhaps sniffing a guest’s groin.
Constant humping? Time for action!
Sexual behavior
-Fun fact: both male and female dogs can mount as a way of practicing for future endeavors. Thousands of years of instinct are at work here.
-Even spayed and neutered pets engage in humping.
-Many mammals show this behavior to varying degrees, including cats, cows, and deer.
Excitement
-Some dogs hump as normal play behavior.
-Unsocialized pups can get excited during play and might end up humping as a result.
-Meeting a new person or dog can drive a dog to mount his owner, another dog, or a nearby toy.
Social situations
-Humping might be a way to show social status or control
Tips to help your pet
-Spay or neuter your pet!
-Gently push your dog off the other pet or item, turn away, and ignore him.
-Catch your dog in the act, say “stop”, and offer him/her a reward when he/she does.
-Consult a behavioral expert: Firehouse has vetted Central Texas pet experts who can help.
Call us if:
-Humping has become a compulsive habit
-It’s interfering with his/her ability to play well with others.