Canine behavior: why do female dogs mount other dogs?

 Canine behavior: why do female dogs mount other dogs?

Tracy Wilkins

You've probably spotted a dog humping another dog in the park, on a pillow, on the couch and even on someone's leg. But what many people don't know is that this canine behavior - which can be so embarrassing at times - is normal for both male and female dogs and is not always linked to the desire to mate. This conduct of climbing on other animals and simulating the act is not always linked to the desire to mate.Sexual intercourse can happen for a number of different reasons, such as stress, dominance and even fun. The act can also indicate some health and behavioural problems. Here are the main reasons why a female dog will mount another dog, female or male.

When the bitch reaches sexual maturity

Dogs reach sexual maturity between 6 and 10 months of age, although this can vary from animal to animal. While canine puberty is marked by the first heat in females, males may exhibit behavioral changes such as possessive and territorial attitudes (which can also be seen in bitches).

Until the puppy's transition to adulthood, it is common to see both genders riding people, objects and other animals for sexual purposes and genital stimulation. The act of riding may also be accompanied by "flirtatious" body language, such as raised tails, pawing and a "bow" position for play.

Boredom, anxiety and lack of attention

If a dog is often left alone for a long period of time or if there are not enough distractions and dog toys in the house, she may start riding on other dogs or things as a response to the boredom she is feeling. To correct this, the guardian should set aside extra time in the day for play and walks. Interacting with the animal and providing her with a routine helps to reduce the boredom.boredom or anxiety.

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Stress may be one of the explanations for the bitch riding another dog

Many reasons can make a dog stressed, such as a new pet in the house, a baby, changes of environment or changes in the owner's routine. And each animal responds to stress in a different way. Females can use the act of riding as a way to relieve nervousness.

Social dominance: dog will show she's in charge

In adult and elderly female dogs, especially in places where there are several animals sharing the same space, the act of mounting other dogs may serve social purposes or reinforce hierarchies between them. In other words, this means that some female dogs may climb on other dogs as a way of exerting dominance and showing that they are the boss in the house.

Excitement and fun influence this canine behavior

Upon meeting a dog or a person, the dog may get excited and start riding the new "friend" or something nearby. It is also possible that the pooch is only doing this behavior for the purpose of playing with the newcomer. Generally, owners should not worry about this, unless the scene causes embarrassment or the other animal is visibly distressed.disturbed.

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Medical problems: keep an eye on how often the bitch mounts other dogs!

When a puppy is humping everything around her and with excessive frequency, this may signal a more serious problem. In some cases, the behavior may be related to urinary tract infections, incontinence, genital pain and skin allergies. When you notice this, you should take the animal to your trusted veterinarian.

Can the act of riding decrease after neutering a female dog?

Many owners notice that mounting becomes more frequent with a bitch in heat, especially her first heat. Castrating her may reduce her desire to mount other bitches, especially if she only exhibits this type of behavior in heat or around other animals in heat. However, even castrated bitches may continue to exhibit this behavior from time to time - since, as we have seen...,there are several causes for this canine behavior.

Tracy Wilkins

Jeremy Cruz is a passionate animal lover and dedicated pet parent. With a background in veterinary medicine, Jeremy has spent years working alongside veterinarians, gaining invaluable knowledge and experience in caring for dogs and cats. His genuine love for animals and commitment to their well-being led him to create the blog Everything you need to know about dogs and cats, where he shares expert advice from veterinarians, owners, and respected experts in the field, including Tracy Wilkins. By combining his expertise in veterinary medicine with insights from other respected professionals, Jeremy aims to provide a comprehensive resource for pet owners, helping them understand and address their beloved pets' needs. Whether it's training tips, health advice, or simply spreading awareness about animal welfare, Jeremy's blog has become a go-to source for pet enthusiasts seeking reliable and compassionate information. Through his writing, Jeremy hopes to inspire others to become more responsible pet owners and create a world where all animals receive the love, care, and respect they deserve.