Tuesday Training Byte: The embarrassing habit of humping

Both male and female dogs may engage in this embarrassing habit. If you had your dog spayed or neutered, it can take a few months for those hormones to get out of their system. There are two main reasons why dogs engage in this behavior: they are overstimulated or seeking attention. Generally speaking though, the behavior has continued because it has been reinforced. Here are some tips on handling this problem behavior.

1. If the dog has become excited due to play or over stimulation, clip a leash on the dog and lead him to his crate. Once crated just walk away without saying anything or otherwise engaging with your dog. I sometimes do the same thing with an over stimulated puppy that is nipping. I might say, "Game over" and nonchalantly go crate the dog until he settles down.

2. If the dog is humping as a means of getting attention from you, it is critical that you do not engage the dog by looking at him, touching him, or talking to him even scolding. Simply move away while giving the command "Off"., just as you would do if he jumps up. Any other attention you give your dog- even negative- will encourage him to continue doing the humping behavior.

3. Regardless of the cause, removing the dog or his "target" consistently will help reduce that behavior. Teaching some calming behaviors as an alternative such as go to their place or crate are handy for other problems as well. Be sure to have a long lasting chew bone to occupy them in their crate or place so they do not see it as punishment. If you notice a trigger to the humping, prevention is even better, by sending them to their crate or place ahead of time.

   Happy training!