Should You Let Female Dogs Hump Each Other?
Humping, or mounting, is a common canine behavior observable in both male and female dogs. It is often misunderstood and associated solely with sexual behavior, but in reality, dogs hump for a variety of reasons that are unrelated to reproduction. Understanding the causes behind humping and how to manage it is essential for responsible dog ownership—especially when it involves female dogs humping each other.
Why Do Female Dogs Hump?
There are numerous reasons why female dogs may engage in mounting behaviors. These include:
- Playfulness and Excitement: Dogs often hump during play or friendly interactions. It may be paired with play bows and pawing as a way to express excitement.
- Attention-Seeking: Some dogs learn that humping attracts their owner’s attention, reinforcing the behavior whether the response is positive or negative.
- Learned Behavior: If humping has yielded attention or a desired outcome in the past, it can become a habitual action.
- Stress or Anxiety: Emotional triggers such as a new environment, visitors, or overstimulation can prompt dogs to hump as a form of coping.
- Boredom: Lack of physical and mental stimulation may lead to humping as an outlet for energy or self-soothing.
- Imitation: Dogs may mimic other dogs’ humping behavior, especially in multi-dog households.
- Medical Concerns: Conditions like urinary tract infections, allergies, skin irritations, or even hormonal imbalances can cause humping. Sudden or excessive humping may warrant a vet check-up.
- Hormonal Influences: Female dogs in heat or approaching estrus may show increased mounting behaviors. Spayed dogs might continue due to residual hormones or learned habits.
- Compulsion: Chronic stress or lack of outlet for energy may turn humping into a compulsive behavior.
Is It About Dominance?
Though often believed to be a sign of dominance, humping is rarely a direct assertion of rank. Most experts agree it is more often driven by arousal, stress, or learned patterns. Sometimes, the dog initiating the mount is the less confident one. Therefore, humping among female dogs doesn’t typically indicate dominance or aggression.
When Is Humping a Problem?
- If it causes stress or injury to other dogs
- If it becomes obsessive or interferes with other behaviors
- When it involves significant size mismatches between dogs
If the humping causes discomfort to the involved dogs or humans witnessing it, or becomes incessant, it may be a sign to intervene.
How to Manage or Stop Female Dog Humping
- Do Not Punish: Avoid yelling or scolding, which can escalate stress and inadvertently reinforce the behavior.
- Interrupt and Redirect: Calmly redirect your dog toward a toy, ask them to sit, or engage them in an alternate task.
- Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm or alternative behavior instead of focusing only on deterring humping.
- Spot Triggers Early: Learn to recognize cues like licking, pawing, or whining, and divert attention before humping starts.
- Remove Triggers: Minimize exposure to environments or objects that frequently trigger the behavior.
- Enrich Their Routine: Provide ample exercise and mental stimulation to curb excess energy.
- Train with Commands: Use reliable cues like "leave it" or "go to your place" to gain control during mounting incidents.
- Seek Professional Help: Consult a certified trainer or veterinary behaviorist for ongoing or distressing humping issues.
When to See a Veterinarian
If your female dog suddenly begins humping frequently, especially accompanied by licking of the genital area or signs of discomfort, a veterinary evaluation is essential. Medical causes like urinary tract infections or allergies must be ruled out.
Impact of Spaying
Spaying may reduce hormonally-driven humping, but because the behavior is also connected to habit and stress, it may persist. In spayed females, hormones can linger for several weeks, so behavioral changes may take time.
Should You Allow It?
Generally, occasional humping between female dogs is normal and not a cause for concern if it’s free from aggression, distress, or compulsion. However, if the behavior escalates or causes social tension, intervention is advised. Focus on redirection, training, and ensuring both dogs are emotionally and physically balanced.
Conclusion
Understanding the complex reasons behind humping allows pet owners to respond appropriately. In female dogs, mounting behavior is rarely about domination or sexual intent. By addressing the underlying cause—whether playful excitement, stress, or boredom—you can foster healthier interactions and happy dogs.
