Dog Mounting

by Kim
(Oregon)

Dominance and dog mounting--can these two males live together?

Hello, I have a wonderful 4 year old APBT/Rottie mix currently. Thor lives happily with our entire family, 3 kids, two cats and various other critters. He is well socialized, loves people and to romp and play with our friends' dogs when given the chance.

He is one of the best and most well mannered dogs ( with the exception being his barking lol) so we thought maybe we could add another dog to the mix. Needless to say we were contacted about a 9 month old bloodhound needing placement.

Thor met Hank (the hound) and all seemed awesome. He was as happy to play as ever with another dog! So we decided to give ol Hank a "trial run" and see how he would do with the family for a week or so before making the final decision.

After about the second day with Hank here Thor decided this was no longer fun and has become very aggressive and dominate. Unfortunately the puppy does not take the hint and is always pawing at or mounting Thor. I am starting to worry as Thor gets crankier and surlier if he will ever accept this pup.....any advice for me would be so very much appreciated! -Kim

Gale's Reply:

Hi Kim

Perhaps from Thor's point of view it's one thing to play nicely with a visiting dog. And, it's quite another to accept a full time housemate.

But, because you've described him as being so congenial across the board, it may just be that they've hit a rough spot in their relationship.

When Thor becomes 'aggressive and dominant' towards the pup, he is basically saying "Enough already! Back off!" Hank either mistakenly thinks this is an invitation to play a little rougher or he may actually think he can win this battle and establish himself as the top dog.

Either way, I wouldn't expect a mature dog to put up with a 9 month old puppy to the point of irritation. While they are playing nicely together, praise and reward them. When you see that Thor has had enough of the pup, it's time to separate them and give Thor some peace.

The pup's mounting behavior could be a dominance display. It could also be his way of playing or relieving stress or anxiety. Make sure he's getting plenty of exercise.

And, see to it that Thor is still getting his fair share of individual attention from you and other family members. And, if you haven't already done so, see to it that they are both neutered.

Good luck with this. I realize I'm behind on replies. So, if you found a way to work this out and would like to share, or would just like to let us know how things are going be sure to post back here.

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