Why do Dogs Hump? How to Stop Your Dog from Humping

If you’re a dog owner, you’ve probably had to stop your pet from humping. Humping is a common behaviour in dogs with no specific criteria. However, it can be somewhat embarrassing when your dog attempts to mount a piece of furniture or a guest who happens to be visiting. This behaviour is normal for a dog and is typically harmless; but, if the humping is incessant and a constant inconvenience, there are a few ways to curb and eventually stop this behaviour. Here's why dogs hump and how to stop it. 

What is Dog Humping? 

Humping in dogs, also known as mating behaviour or mounting, is when a dog thrusts their hips against another dog, person, object, or sometimes even the air itself. When a dog attempts to hump, they usually try to mount the hind side of another animal. When not possible, they will attempt to mount another object, such as a sofa leg or other furniture, or more commonly another person’s leg.

Why Do Dogs Hump? 

While the action of humping may appear sexual at first glance, it is not always the case. Humping is equal parts learned behaviour and instinct and is completely natural behaviour for a dog to exhibit. Contrary to popular belief, humping isn’t a male specific trait either, since female dogs can also hump. Humping isn’t a problem by itself; however, it can become a behavioural issue if left unchecked. After all, nobody likes a dog that constantly humps people, other dogs, or objects. 

Here are a few reasons why dogs hump: 

• Sexual/hormonal reasons: An un-neutered or un-spayed dog might hump other dogs due to their hormones and instincts. If both dogs have not been neutered, you’ll need to pay attention and keep them separated to avoid mating. Spaying or neutering can often quell this behaviour; however, make sure to break the habit before neutering, otherwise it may continue even after it. 
• Stress: Humping can also be a self-soothing behaviour for dogs dealing with stress or overstimulation. This may explain why some dogs hump visitors—they’re responding to the anxiety of having a stranger in the house. Other triggers include changes in routine, being boarded, returning home after a long day, or the introduction of a new pet. 
• Playfulness: Play humping (like play fighting) is common and usually harmless, provided both dogs are comfortable. Some dogs take turns humping each other without issue. However, if one dog seems annoyed, make sure to step in and stop it. If you’re training your dog, teaching commands like “come” can help interrupt the behavior when needed. 
  Excitement: Play humping (such as play fighting), is common and usually harmless (as long as both dogs are comfortable). Some dogs take turns humping each other without issue. However, if one dog seems annoyed, make sure to step in and stop it. If you’re training your dog, teaching commands like “come” can help interrupt the behavior when needed.
• Medical Causes: Before training your dog to stop humping, make sure to rule out medical issues. Though it is rare, conditions like urinary tract infections, itchy skin, or priapism (persistent erection) can lead to humping. If your dog also licks their genital area frequently or rubs against objects, a vet visit is a good idea.

How to Stop Humping

• Use a verbal cue. As soon as you see humping, say a firm but calm word like “stop” or “off” (avoid “no” or “down” to prevent confusion).
• Reward good behavior. If your dog stops, immediately reward them with a treat, toy, or praise.
• Remove the target. If your dog is humping a person, separate them. If it’s an object, take it away. If a verbal cue doesn’t work, redirect their attention with something more engaging like a favorite toy, food puzzle, or game. Always interrupt the behavior and steer them toward a different activity. 
  Interrupt and Redirect
• To stop your dog from humping, address it in the moment. Scolding after the fact won’t help, it’ll just confuse them.

When to Seek Professional Help

Some dogs won’t stop humping so easily. If training isn’t working, a professional dog trainer or behaviorist can help. In some cases, managing the behavior might be the best solution. If humping risks causing a fight, embarrassment, or injury, take steps to prevent it:

• Keep your dog in a separate room when guests visit.
• Minimize stress and anxiety triggers.
• Provide toys that aren’t the right shape or size for easy humping.

With patience and consistency, most dogs can be trained to stop excessive humping. But if it persists, knowing when and how to intervene can help avoid awkward or problematic situations. Make sure to visit a pet behavioralist and explore all available options; such behaviour tens to stick if left unchecked, so it is important to intervene.