Why does my dog hump?

It’s so embarrassing when your dog mounts another. Stop wondering to yourself “why does my dog hump?” and start addressing this negative behavior.

Unless there’s a mutual desire to breed, it’s probably not sexually motivated. Most likely, humping is a dominant behavior over another dog or person whereby the dog is attempting to show that it is of a higher rank. It can range from grabbing and literally hanging onto a dog or human with both front legs to simply stiffening the neck or head and placing it over another animal or person as if to say, “Hey, you’re mine.”

This kind of behavior is most prevalent in social situations, especially dog parks. When dogs are allowed to hump, you may hear misguided and uninformed onlookers telling you not to worry because the dogs will work it out themselves. However, it is important that you not only prevent your dog from humping other dogs, but also protect your dog from being humped. Your goal is to teach your dog that you are protecting him and keeping him safe, anywhere and everywhere. Allowing another dog to hump your dog or intimidate him is tantamount to bullying in schools.

Humping is a behavior to be discouraged in order to prevent dominant behaviors from turning into potential aggressive behavior. Allowing your dog to hump a pillow, stuffed animal, or other inanimate object is not okay. Be consistent, this behavior is never acceptable. This leads to clarity and understanding.