Do Female Dogs Hump When Coming Into Season?
Many dog owners are surprised to witness their female dog humping objects, other pets, or even people. While mounting is often associated with male dogs, it's actually a behavior observed in both sexes. If you're wondering whether female dogs hump when coming into season, the answer is yes — but the reasons behind it are more complex than you might think.
Understanding the Heat Cycle in Female Dogs
The estrus cycle, commonly known as being in heat, occurs when a female dog reaches sexual maturity. This typically starts between 6 to 24 months of age, depending on the breed. The cycle consists of several stages, including proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus, with the estrus stage being the peak fertility period.
- Proestrus: Hormonal changes begin, and the dog may become clingy or restless.
- Estrus (heat): The female is fertile and may exhibit flirty behavior, including mounting or humping.
- Diestrus: Fertility ends and hormonal levels begin to normalize.
- Anestrus: The resting period before the next cycle begins.
Why Do Female Dogs Hump?
Humping or mounting isn't limited to sexual behavior. Here are several common reasons a female dog may hump:
- Hormonal Changes: As the body prepares for possible mating, changing hormone levels may increase behavioral arousal, including mounting.
- Excitement: Some dogs hump during play or when overstimulated. It’s a reaction to excitement, not necessarily sexual interest.
- Dominance: Mounting can be a way of asserting social rank among dogs or even with their human companions.
- Stress or Anxiety: Some dogs hump as a coping behavior when feeling uneasy or anxious.
- Medical Causes: Urinary tract infections, skin allergies, or hormone imbalances could trigger humping. If it's excessive, a vet check is advised.
Is Humping When in Heat Normal?
Yes, it is generally normal. The hormones released during this time can trigger instinctual behaviors, including humping. It’s especially common during the estrus phase when the dog is most fertile. However, the intensity and frequency can vary between individuals.
How to Manage the Behavior
While occasional humping is normal, it can become problematic or embarrassing. Here are some steps to manage it:
- Redirect Behavior: Use obedience commands or toys to distract and engage your dog in acceptable behavior.
- Increase Exercise: Tiring your dog out physically and mentally can reduce excess energy that leads to humping.
- Identify Triggers: Does your dog hump in specific situations, after guests arrive, or during playtime? Identifying triggers can help manage or prevent the behavior.
- Spaying: Spaying significantly reduces hormonal-driven behavior and is often recommended if your dog is not being bred.
When to Seek Veterinary Advice
If the humping is intense, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as discharge, aggression, or lethargy, seek veterinary advice. A vet can rule out potential issues like infections or hormonal disorders.
Conclusion
Seeing your female dog hump when she’s coming into season isn't unusual and is often related to natural hormonal changes. However, humping can also stem from non-sexual motives like excitement, stress, or play. Understanding the behavioral context and managing it appropriately can improve your dog’s well-being and your peace of mind.
