Dog Humping Behavior: Is Neutering the Right Solution?

Let’s talk about one of the more awkward dog behaviors out there…

When your male dog starts humping — a pillow, another dog, your leg — it can be surprising, frustrating, and yes, sometimes embarrassing.

For decades, the standard advice has been, “Just neuter him. That’ll fix it.” This recommendation is so common because it’s the way things have always been done — and many people, including veterinarians, truly believe it’s the best next step. But as we learn more about canine behavior and health, it’s worth asking: Is it always the right solution?

The truth is, humping is a normal canine behavior that can stem from many things beyond reproduction. And while neutering may sometimes reduce the behavior, it’s not a guaranteed fix — and it does come with potential health trade-offs.

My goal isn’t to judge past decisions or criticize your veterinarian — I’ve made the same recommendation myself earlier in my career. Instead, I want to share the latest research and give you other tools to consider so that you can make the most informed choice for your dog.

Despite appearances, humping isn’t always about mating. In fact, most of the time, it has nothing to do with reproduction at all. Dogs may hump due to:

• Playfulness
• Overstimulation or excitement
• Stress or anxiety
• Habit or attention-seeking
• Communication or social boundary-setting

In many cases, it’s simply a burst of energy or a lack of impulse control.

Neutering changes hormone levels, but it doesn’t teach self-control or address stress triggers. That’s why studies have found mixed results:

• Neilson et al. (1997): In 56 male dogs, only about half showed reduced mounting after neutering. The rest continued.
• Wright & Nesselrote (1987): Found humping was often tied to stress, excitement, or poor impulse control — not hormones.

So, neutering might help in certain cases, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Neutering has clear benefits in certain situations — particularly for preventing accidental breeding when vasectomy isn’t available, or for treating specific medical conditions. But when it’s done solely for behavioral reasons, it’s important to understand the serious potential side effects, including increased anxiety, orthopedic problems, and a higher risk of certain cancers in some breeds.

A hormone-preserving alternative for population control is vasectomy. This procedure prevents reproduction while maintaining the hormonal balance that supports emotional stability, physical development, and overall health.

If humping is becoming a concern, these strategies can be more effective and less invasive than surgery:

1. Interrupt and Redirect — Calmly say “Leave it” and offer a toy or cue another task.
2. Impulse Control Training — Practice “Wait,” “Stay,” and delayed rewards.
3. Increase Exercise and Enrichment — Satisfy both physical and mental needs.
4. Stress Reduction — Try puzzle toys, decompression walks, and predictable routines.
5. Stay Neutral — Avoid punishment or laughter, which can reinforce the behavior.
6. Professional Support — Work with a certified trainer or behaviorist for tailored guidance.

There are valid, non-behavioral reasons to neuter, including:

• Treating medical conditions such as testicular cancer, perianal tumors, or severe prostate enlargement
• Addressing hormone-related health issues like perianal fistulas or hormone-sensitive tumors, as advised by a veterinarian
• Preventing accidental breeding when vasectomy or secure management isn’t possible

If your dog humps, it doesn’t mean something is wrong — it’s a normal behavior often driven by excitement, stress, or habit. While neutering is sometimes necessary for medical reasons, it’s not a solution for behavioral humping — and it often does nothing to stop it.

Training, structure, and consistency are far more effective. By understanding the root cause and using supportive strategies first, you can make a decision that truly supports your dog’s well-being.

Written by Dr. Lynda Loudon

Founder of the Dog Mom Society

The Dog Mom Society

Want to feel more confident making health decisions for your dog — without second-guessing yourself at every turn?

Inside The Dog Mom Society, you’ll get the support, clarity, and expert guidance you need to navigate canine nutrition, holistic wellness, and behavior with confidence.

Plus, we’re here for you too — with women’s wellness resources to support your journey as a dog mom.

✨ Empower yourself. Support your dog. Find your community.