Why do dogs hump? Humping is also referred to as “mounting”, and dogs do it for a variety of reasons! It’s important to understand that this behavior is completely natural, normal, and often has nothing to do with sex or dominance.
Reasons a dog mounts can include stress, anxiety, and play. An overstimulating environment, changes to your dog’s surroundings, and increased excitement during social events and outings can cause an increase in this behavior. Sometimes your dog may mount as a form of play. If this is the case, some dogs may become annoyed and respond negatively to the mounting behavior – especially if it is excessive.
How to Prevent my Dog from Humping / Mounting
There are many ways to reduce mounting behavior. Of course, speaking with your veterinarian is highly recommended if you are looking to better understand your dog's hormones; however, other options to help reduce this behavior include:
1.) Removing any environmental triggers – Removing triggers that cause your dog to begin mounting is the surest and quickest way to reduce this behavior.
2.) Utilize redirection techniques - Redirecting your dog while they are mounting (or right before they start) will help to reduce mounting behavior. You can redirect by calling your dog to you and rewarding them for doing so. Teaching your dog simple commands such as "come” and "leave it" can make a world of difference! Make sure you are teaching these behaviors using positive reinforcement training techniques to avoid breaking your dog’s trust.
3.) Reduce stimulation - One way to reduce stimulation is to remove your dog from the excitement by giving “time outs”. These temporary time outs should only last for a couple minutes before resuming with training or activities. Time outs must be given quickly and calmly so the dog can associate the unwanted mounting behavior with leaving the fun.
4.) Spay or neuter - Depending on your dog's age, and of course after speaking with your veterinarian, determine if spaying or neutering might be an option to reduce your dog’s mounting behavior.
5.) Speak with a professional dog trainer – Speaking with a professional dog trainer can help make the process of reducing mounting a lot smoother.
At Biscuits Doggie Daycare located in Tacoma, Washington, professional dog trainers are available to help assist with reducing mounting behavior. At Biscuits, positive reinforcement techniques are utilized during enrichment daycare services and training sessions to help set your dog up for success!
