My Humping Dogs

Dear Bailey,

I just got two male beagles today. They will not stop humping each other. 

I followed your advice to give them some time to calm down, but that didn't work. Just as soon as they got back together they started up again. 

Is there anything I can do? How long will this continuing humping last?

Thanks,

Max and Bailey's Mom

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Bailey's Reply:

Dear Max and Bailey's Mom,

Before I respond, I'm going to assume that these two beagles came from the same place, and that they have known each other long before they came to live with you.

The mounting can be perceived as a displacement behavior for anxiety about being in a new home.  Remember that their world has just been turned upside down, even if your home is a better place than they were before.

Dogs that have just been placed in a new home often do not behave in the same manner as they would if they lived there for a year.  So you may see behavior that seems weird, unusual, or just plain odd to you.  Most dogs don't show their "true self" for a few weeks, or until they feel settled.

Create as much routine in your new beagle's lives as possible.  Try to keep a set schedule with regards to walks, mealtimes, playtime, etc.  Make sure that your beagles are getting plenty of exercise, like running/jogging or trips to a dog park.  Barring any physical issues, the mounting behavior should diminish with some time.  If you're finding that the mounting behaviors continue after several weeks, seek assistance with a  professional canine behaviorist. 

In the meantime, have some patience, and give your new kids time to adjust.  Congratulations on your new family members!

<sniffs!>

Bailey

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