Re: Sexual Agression??? But too young!!

In Reply to: Sexual Agression??? But too young!!
Category:   Behavior Problems
Posted by:  Brian
Posted on:  October 29, 2002 at 20:00:52

: THis is a difficult question to post, so please excuse if it comes off somewhat crude. Jack is 11 weeks old and is already exhibiting habits that I think he may be way too young for. He sometimes views my arm, his stuffed toy and my girlfriends' arm as something to mate with. This behavior usually earns him a puppy time out if he does not stop on my command but he comes back with the same intentions. Whats the deal? Am I dealing with it correctly? Thank you.

Response:

Dear Brian,

Bless your heart for being such a gentleman! The behavior you describe is what we affectionately call "humping" (!) and has to do with dominance, not mating. In these particular instances, time outs don't necessarily work since the "punishment" doesn't really fit the "crime;" a dog who thinks he rules the household is not bothered by being alone. :-)

Since this is a problem that has been addressed many times on this Forum, our search engine contains a wealth of information on how to properly deal with the behavior. Please take advantage of our FAQs as well.