Humping Dogs: It’s Not What You Think!

Oi! If you want to see puppy pet parents run, it’s when their puppy humps or is being humped during puppy playtime. Dogs humping is not what you think. It’s meaningless behavior, I promise!

It’s not a status thing and it has nothing to do with dominance, as most people assume. That stuff is outdated information. We do know both males and females participate in this behavior and spaying or neutering does not decrease a dog’s likelihood for humping.  

Puppies

Most puppies hump when playing. It just happens. They practice different play techniques. Each technique is designed to elicit play behavior, such as pawing at a puppy’s face, play bowing and then the dreaded humping. Humping usually begins during an intense play session when puppies are overly excited and tired. Geez, humping is usually contagious. Once a puppy starts humping, bingo! Everyone decides to try it out.

Dogs

Adolescent and adult dogs hump because, well, they never read the pet parent’s manual, in which folks find it disturbing. Plus, their playmates were totally fine with it. As long as fun play continues, who cares what you’re doing, right? If another dog finds humping irritating, he will surely inform the humper and the behavior stops.

Stress

For some dogs, humping may be due to stress just like excessive grooming or whining. I’ve noticed an increase in humping when new guests appear, such as a new baby or dog. It’s usually preempted by a disruption in a dog’s life. Note humping for what it is. In this case, it’s stress so redirect his stress with additional walks, mental stimulation and alone time with you.

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Managing Your Humper

If humping annoys and embarrasses you, redirect your dog to do something else. When he starts humping an object, such as a pillow or toy, interrupt the behavior with a quick game of “touch.” If stress is causing the behavior, then redirecting his attention will help reduce anxiety.

You can use the “touch” game to redirect your dog away from another dog, cat or person. Use extra yummy treats and reward often. This keeps him engaged with you and he’ll soon forget about humping.

Want More Information?

Humping is meaningless behavior. Think of it as little girls braiding each other’s hair or boys arm wrestling– it’s just a game. However, if you seek additional information, check out H*umping by Julie Hecht. All your humping questions and concerns will be answered. 🙂

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