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Understanding mounting in dogs

When a young dog mounts another, many people immediately think of sex or dominance. Usually they're just overexcited. Here's what's really behind it.

When a young dog mounts another dog, many owners find it embarrassing. It's easy to think of sexual behaviour, or of the dog trying to dominate the other one. Usually neither is true: even puppies mount when they're overexcited, worked up or caught in a small conflict.

Usually just too much excitement

Mounting is often an outlet for too much tension. Sometimes the dog also uses it to stop the other dog or get them moving again. It says nothing about your dog's character or how they'll develop later – it only shows how excited they are right now.

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Frequently asked questions

What is “Understanding mounting in dogs” about?

When a young dog mounts another, many people immediately think of sex or dominance. Usually they're just overexcited. Here's what's really behind it. When a young dog mounts another dog, many owners find it embarrassing. It's easy to think of sexual behaviour, or of the dog trying to dominate the other one. Usually neither is true: even puppies mount when they're overexcited, worked up or caught in a small conflict.

What else is part of “Understanding mounting in dogs”?

Mounting is often an outlet for too much tension. Sometimes the dog also uses it to stop the other dog or get them moving again. It says nothing about your dog's character or how they'll develop later – it only shows how excited they are right now.

Does the article “Understanding mounting in dogs” replace veterinary advice?

This article is no substitute for veterinary advice. Source: DOGSY editorial team.

Who wrote “Understanding mounting in dogs”, and how up to date is the article?

The article comes from the DOGSY knowledge team and is written in plain language. Last updated: 9 July 2026.

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This article is no substitute for veterinary advice. Source: DOGSY editorial team.