strange behavior...

[cfuh]

Hi All,

A friend of mine (no really!!) recently bought a doggie bed (fleece on top) for her 7yr dog. She immediately LOVED it!!! And to show how excited she was, she humped it several times (she is spayed). Does anyone know why this behavior occurs? I've heard of dogs humping other dogs to show dominance (one of mine does that to my other) but not to items.

Thanks!!

[angelpuppy]

Lots of dogs, both male and female, neutered and not, will hump other dogs, people, objects, etc. My understanding is that is is a form of excited play, as well as a show of dominance. So in other words, your friend's dog just got a little too excited!! There's really no sexual meaning in what she is doing, but if it is upsetting your friend, she can discourage the dog from that activity with a firm "NO" or other such command.