Normal Dog Behavior
Mounting and humping are natural behaviors in dogs that are not solely associated with sex and mating. As Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the American Kennel Club (AKC), explains, “While the act of mounting is frequently associated with reproduction in the animal kingdom, with dogs it can reflect a variety of states of mind” (Why Does My Dog Hump Everything?). Dogs may hump when excited, anxious, asserting dominance, or playing. The dog’s age, sex, neuter status and breed can all influence humping behavior as well.
One common reason for humping behavior in dogs is to show dominance. As veterinarian Dr. Gary Landsberg explains, “mounting also is a common dominance gesture with dogs” (Humping: Why Do Dogs Do It?). The dog trying to hump is not necessarily dominant, but is rather displaying dominant body posturing. Humping can establish a hierarchy and serve as a self-soothing behavior when a dog feels anxious or unsure.
Establishing Dominance
One common reason for a male dog to try humping a pregnant female is to establish dominance. As the female dog’s body changes during pregnancy, the male may see her as becoming more vulnerable and unable to properly defend her position in the household pack hierarchy. This can lead the male to try asserting his dominance by mounting her.
However, research shows that humping in dogs is actually rarely related to dominance. It more commonly occurs due to excitement, anxiety, or instinct. So while the urge to show dominance may play a small role, it is likely not the primary factor.
Scent Changes
A woman’s body goes through many hormonal changes during pregnancy. These hormonal fluctuations can lead to subtle changes in her natural scent and pheromones (What to Expect, 2021; The Hindu, 2023). While these changes may be imperceptible to humans, a dog’s powerful sense of smell allows them to detect even the slightest variation.
Research shows that dogs can recognize and react to the pheromones released by a pregnant woman (Santos et al., 2020). These pheromonal changes, combined with other hormonal and physical changes during pregnancy, can alter a woman’s normal scent profile. Some male dogs may pick up on this and see it as a sexual cue or opportunity to mate.
Additionally, as a woman progresses through pregnancy, the concentration of pheromones shifts. A male dog may pick up on the increase in certain pheromones mid-to-late pregnancy as a sign of readiness to give birth. This can trigger their protective instincts and attempts to keep close by the expecting female.
False Pregnancy
A false pregnancy can sometimes cause male dogs to think the female is ready to mate. During a false pregnancy, the female dog’s hormones fluctuate and her body behaves as if she is pregnant. Her mammary glands enlarge, she produces milk, and she may build a nest and mother toys as if they were puppies. This can confuse the male, since enlarged, milk-filled nipples resemble those of a female in heat.
If your female dog is displaying mothering behaviors without being pregnant, the male may see this and think she is ready to breed. He will likely make many attempts to mount her. To curb this behavior, keep the dogs separated during a false pregnancy and provide plenty of exercise, stimulation and affection for the male dog. Spaying your female dog can also prevent false pregnancies from recurring.
Protecting Puppies
Some male dogs may attempt to hump or be overly-interested in a pregnant female dog because they sense the pregnancy and wish to protect the unborn puppies. According to this source, male dogs are able to detect pregnancy in females through smell and behavior changes. Though the expectant female does not need protection early in pregnancy, as she nears birth the male dog’s protective instincts heighten.
Research shows that male dogs can percept changes in a pregnant female’s hormones and pheromones. They become more attentive and protective as her scent shifts and her body changes. Some male dogs even take on a guarding role, staying close to the pregnant female’s side to keep her and the unborn puppies safe. This protective behavior stems from an innate drive to propagate the species by ensuring the next generation is born successfully.
Breeding Instincts
Despite being domesticated as pets, intact male dogs still have natural instincts to mate and breed that are driven by hormones.
According to this source, when intact male dogs reach sexual maturity, their testosterone levels increase, which activates their drive to mate and pass on their genes.
Signs your male dog wants to mate include territorial marking, increased masturbation and humping, restlessness, and following a female dog in heat around constantly. This is all normal behavior for an unneutered male dog.
So when your male dog tries to hump your pregnant female, it is likely due to his natural instincts and hormones driving him to mate, rather than a behavioral issue.
Redirecting Behavior
Since humping is a natural dog behavior, the goal should be redirecting it rather than eliminating it completely. There are several effective ways to redirect your male dog’s attempts at humping your pregnant female:
- Use training commands like “leave it” or “off” followed by praise and treats when he stops. Be consistent.
- Provide plenty of exercise, play time, and enrichment activities to burn off excess energy.
- Distract him with a fun toy when he starts getting fixated on humping.
- Separate the dogs if the behavior doesn’t stop, using baby gates or crates.
- Consider enrolling in obedience training for more structured behavior modification.
The key is interrupting the humping and redirecting your male dog’s attention before he gets too excited. With time and consistency, you can curb the undesirable behavior.
Neutering Benefits
Neutering a male dog can help reduce unwanted behaviors like humping. According to the Animal League, neutering reduces or eliminates the risk of marking and spraying behaviors in male dogs. The Brown University Research Lab notes that neutering decreases a male dog’s desire to roam and their chances of developing prostate disease or hernias. It can also eliminate the risk of testicular cancer.
The American Kennel Club states that neutering may make male dogs less likely to exhibit other unwanted behaviors like humping. The reduction in testosterone after neutering reduces sex drive and makes hormone-driven behaviors like humping less frequent. However, neutering may not completely eliminate humping in all dogs.
While neutering can provide behavioral benefits, it also has some downsides to consider. An increase in appetite and weight gain are common after neutering. There are also some health risks like orthopedic disorders, cognitive impairment, and immune disorders associated with neutering. Owners should weigh the pros and cons of neutering with their veterinarian.
When to Worry
While humping behavior is common in male dogs, certain signs warrant caution and monitoring:
Aggressive humping that involves biting or intensely forceful attempts at penetration suggests problematic behavior that may require professional help. As the ASPCA notes, “If the behavior becomes obsessive, excessive, or if it involves aggression, then it’s time to consult a professional”[1].
A sudden increase in frequency of humping, especially in a previously well-behaved dog, could reflect anxiety, stress, or a medical issue requiring veterinary attention[2].
Inappropriate mounting of children, guests, or other animals reveals problematic dominance displays. This warrants redirection and behavior modification under a trainer’s guidance.
While most humping is harmless, excessively zealous or aggressive attempts warrant caution. Monitoring changes in behavior frequency and appropriateness allows for early intervention if needed.
Providing Support
It’s important to provide extra care and support for your pregnant dog to keep her healthy and comfortable. According to EverydayHealth, pregnant dogs should get regular but gentle exercise such as short walks and light playtime. Give your dog attention and affection but avoid overstimulating her.
Make sure your pregnant dog has a warm, quiet space to rest and sleep, lined with soft bedding. Provide easy access to water and high-quality puppy food, which has extra protein and calcium. Feed smaller, more frequent meals as the puppies take up room in her abdomen.
According to the AKC, prepare a whelping area 2-3 weeks before delivery with newspaper and clean bath mats. Have clean towels, a thermometer, and emergency vet number on hand. Gently massage your dog’s abdomen to detect potential problems.
Overall, give your pregnant dog lots of affection while making sure she stays relaxed and comfortable. Check for any concerning symptoms and keep up with vet checkups. This supportive care helps ensure your dog and future puppies stay happy and healthy.