How To Stop Puppy Humping

Almost all dogs will exhibit signs of puppy humping at some point. Although embarrassing, it is not really a problem so long as your dog is not hurting anyone. However, the puppy has other ideas and starts to try and bump and grind anyone and anything in sight. Why do puppies do this, and can anything be done about it?

All dogs are pack animals, and your puppy is simply trying to determine their place within your family pack. If you observe puppies in a litter, it is not uncommon to see the males attempt to mount their litter mates whenever possible. Female puppies can also exhibit this behavior, although it is not as common.

Most people find it distasteful when their brand new puppy starts to hump everything or anybody (both people and dogs) in sight. Why do puppies exhibit this behaviour, and can anything be done about it?

The general consensus from dog experts is that if the puppy humping is not harming anyone, do nothing. Given enough time, it will resolve itself on its own when your puppy understands his social standing. However, if it is still causing problems, you and other family members will have to demonstrate your dominant position by using "Sit" and "Stay" commands whenever your puppy starts to mount someone. If you do this for 2 months, and it is still an issue, you may want to consult a professional animal behaviorist. He may recommend having your dog neutered (if it isn't already), or a comprehensive behavior management program may be required for your puppy. Five or six months is the recommended age to neuter your puppy.

Another view of the phenomena of puppy humping is that it has nothing to do with pack behavior or dominance at all. Rather, the only thing it indicates is that your puppy is in an excited state, and is looking for a way to release that energy. The puppy humping you see is simply a motor pattern that your dog performs when in this state.

Whether this view is correct or not, the solution remains the same. If your puppy is in an excited state, calm him down with “sit” or “stay” commands. If the dog doesn’t respond to this, place the puppy in his crate until he calms down. Although this should work, it should be noted that these experts do not see any problems with puppy humping either. So long as it’s not causing any problems, let them.
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