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Question:

Dog (f,spayed) had dental surgery. Dog (m, intact) obsessively humping

I'm really hoping you can help me out because I’m at my wit’s end here. My female dog just had dental surgery a few days ago, and since she’s come back home, my male dog has started obsessively humping her. It’s like he just can't leave her alone, and it's driving us both crazy. To clarify, she's spayed, and he's not, but he's never acted like this before. They've always gotten along well, so this sudden behavior is baffling and really concerning. I’ve tried distracting him with his favorite toys and even separating them when it gets too much, but it only seems to help temporarily. Has anyone else experienced this, and does anyone have suggestions on how to get him to stop? I want to make sure she's not stressed during her recovery, and I could really use some advice from anyone who’s been through something similar. Thanks in advance!

Answer:

Hello! It sounds like you're dealing with quite an interesting dynamic at home right now. Let’s break this down a bit. After your female dog's dental surgery, she may have new scents or behaviors that seem unusual to your male dog, triggering his humping behavior. This is quite common, as dogs are very responsive to changes in their environment or household members.



Humping can be a form of dominance, a reaction to stress, or even a manifestation of excitement or pent-up energy. For now, ensure both dogs have their own separate, calm spaces to relax, especially your female dog who needs time to recover stress-free. Distract your male dog with play, training activities, or safe chew toys to redirect his attention.



Keep a close watch on your female dog’s recovery signs: any swelling, changes in her mood, or if she seems to be in pain, it might be time to touch base with a vet. As for your male dog, if his behavior becomes obsessive or aggressive towards her, it could indicate stress or behavioral issues that might require professional guidance.



If things don’t improve, or if either dog seems distressed, please consider booking a video consult with one of our Dial A Vet professionals. They can provide you with tailored advice based on your specific situation. We're here to help!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 22, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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