Why Does My Dog Hump Me And No One Else?

You may be wondering ‘why does my dog hump me and no one else’. It’s not your imagination.

Dogs are very territorial. Humping is a form of dominant behavior, so it’s possible that your pup sees you as the leader of the pack or he could be trying to exert his influence over you.

However, this type of behavior can also be triggered by anxiety. If your pup is anxious around other dogs he could simply be trying to get his stress levels under control.

It could also be because you’re more willing to let him hump than others are, which encourages this type of behavior. 

If your dog only humps when there’s someone around then it might be that they’re lonely and need attention from those around them. They also do it just for fun sometimes, but no matter the reason, it can be difficult if your dog is humping you too much.

Maybe they see your lower body as a giant play toy? Or maybe it’s because of the way you smell to them. 

Should you be concerned? Read on as we find out what makes dogs want to hump, why they only hump you, and tips on how to stop it!

Why Do Dogs Hump?

Dogs hump for a variety of reasons. Some dogs hump because they see it as a way to show dominance, while others do it out of boredom or anxiety. Some dogs will hump anything that comes their way, while others only hump their human companions.

However, the underlying motivation is always the same – they are trying to communicate something.

In most cases, dogs hump because they want something. They could be trying to get attention, seeking reassurance, or simply trying to relieve stress.

In some cases, however, your dog might just be doing it for fun. Oftentimes, young dogs will hump each other as a way to engage in play. They’re just having fun and it’s not sexual behavior.

Still, no matter the reason behind it, humping can be very annoying and disruptive if your dog does it too much.

What Makes A Dog Want To Hump?

There are a number of reasons why dogs hump. Here are some of the most common reasons:

Dominance

Humping is a way for dogs to assert their dominance over others. For example, a dog may hump another dog as a way to show that it is the dominant one in the situation.

Attention-seeking

Dogs may hump people or other animals as a way to get attention from them. This is especially true if you’re the only one in your household who allows your dog to hump.

Boredom

Dogs may hump because they are bored and have nothing else to do. This especially applies to dogs kept indoors or those lacking adequate mental stimulation.

bored dog on a bench

Anxiety

It is possible for a dog to suffer from anxiety, which leads to them humping objects or people as a way to calm down.

Play

When it comes to younger dogs, they may hump because they do not know that this is inappropriate behavior. They may also see your lower body as a giant toy!

Medical

It is possible for a dog to hump because of a medical condition. For example, dogs with urinary tract infections may hump because it causes them a pain to use the bathroom.

Arousal

Dogs may hump as a way to express their arousal. This can be sexual or non-sexual arousal.

Socialization

Dogs that were not properly socialized while young may hump because they do not know how to interact with other dogs. The same is true for their human companions, so be sure to get them socialized early on!

Itchy

Dogs may hump as a way to scratch an itch. This is especially common in dogs that suffer from allergies or skin conditions.

What Makes Female Dogs Hump Their Female Owners?

There is no one answer to this question as every dog is different. Although female dogs don’t hump as often as their male counterparts in general, they usually do so for the same reasons. 

Although it may seem strange, humping is an extremely normal sexual activity in female dogs. This is a form of foreplay that they engage in when they’re in heat, sometimes even when they’re not.

If the female dog starts to hump because of sexual reasons, you can induce her to reduce or eliminate the behavior. Female dogs could also be humping for non-sexual reasons. 

Anxiety is one of the most common reasons. If your dog is always anxious, you should try to find a way to help them relax. 

What Makes My Male Dog Hump Me And No One Else?

A male dog’s humping behavior can be a bit perplexing for its owners. So, why does your dog hump you and no one else?

There are a few possible reasons why your male dog humps you and no one else. One reason could be that he is trying to show dominance over you. This is common among male dogs. 

Another reason could be that he is trying to mark you as his territory. Alternatively, your dog could just be physically expressing his sexual arousal.

If your dog is trying to show dominance over you, it is important to nip this behavior in the bud before it becomes a bigger problem. You can do this by asserting your dominance over your dog yourself.

This may mean disciplining your dog physically, although not in a way that causes him to fear you. For example, if he is jumping up on you, you can push him away with an open hand.

If your dog is trying to mark you as his territory, you need to handle it a bit differently. He is not trying to show dominance over you, so it will be harder to nip the behavior in the bud.

The best thing to do in this case is to take your leashed dog for a walk around the block every day. This will allow him to mark his territory outside of your home.

It will also give you a chance to give him plenty of exercises, which can help relieve stress and thus reduce his desire to hump you.

Why Does My Dog Hump Only Me and No One Else?

It is important that you understand that several theories could explain your dog’s behavior.

dog clings to owner's leg

Emotional connection

Dogs are social creatures and they feel better when they spend time with you. For many dogs, their owners are extremely significant people in their lives. 

They may see your lower body as a way to be affectionate and re-establish the emotional connection that may have been disturbed by the lack of physical contact.

You don’t discipline them

Your dog may hump because they know that you won’t punish them for it. This is especially true if you’re the only one in your household who allows them to hump. Another person in the house may not find it as amusing and may yell at them to stop.

Insecurity

If your dog is always seeking your attention and constantly trying to please you, they may hump because they are insecure and don’t know how to get your attention in other ways.

They’re trying to get attention

As mentioned earlier, dogs may hump as a way to get attention from people. If your dog only humps you and no one else, they may be doing it because they know you’ll give them the attention they crave.

Your smell

There is a theory that states dogs will hump people with whom they have formed an emotional connection simply because they smell familiar and comforting. They associate that smell with a pleasant experience, such as receiving affection from you.

Play & Exercise

Dogs that don’t get enough exercise may hump as a way to burn off some energy. Similarly, dogs that are constantly playing may also hump as a way to engage in more fun activities. They usually associate their owner’s body with playtime and fun.

Should I Be Concerned If My Dog Humps Me?

If your dog has a habit of humping you, you should make sure that they do not try to hump other people or animals. It is also important that they stop when in public places, and in front of any company. 

If your dog becomes aggressive while trying to hump, help them overcome this problematic behavior by reaching out to a professional.

If your dog is constantly trying to hump you and it does not seem like they’re doing so in a playful manner, you should try to investigate why this happens. If their behavior is excessive, talk to your vet or a professional animal behaviorist.

However, if there isn’t any sign of aggression and the humping doesn’t bother you, there’s no reason to worry. Enjoy the extra bit of love your dog is trying to show you and be sure to give them plenty of exercise and attention.

How To Stop My Dog From Humping Me?

If you’re not comfortable with your dog humping you and it’s becoming a problem, there are a few things you can do to stop them.

Be firm

Avoid giving too much affection on your dog’s terms. When they try to hump, push them away, and do not give them any affection until they calm down. This will help them learn that humping doesn’t work anymore and will stop trying to do it all of the time.

dog being held on collar

Exercise

Keep your dog well-exercised. A tired dog won’t have much energy to do anything else.

Be consistent

Be consistent with your messages. If you let them hump every once in a while and scold them for it on other occasions, they’ll become confused. If you want to make sure your dog understands what’s allowed, stick to one or two rules and be consistent about them.

Distract them

Use distraction techniques. Distract your dog with another toy when they start trying to hump you. When they go after the other toy, praise them and give them a treat. This will help them associate good things with not humping you.

Healthy diet

Feed your dog a healthy diet. Well-fed dogs won’t hump as much, because they will have plenty of energy to play with and aren’t seeking more attention. A happy healthy dog is a well-behaved dog.

Be gentle

Remember that you should never punish your dog while humping or immediately after it happens. This will only make them afraid of you and could worsen their behavior. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to reach out for help from a professional.

Reach out for help

Seek professional help. If your dog is becoming aggressive or continues to hump even after implementing these techniques, it’s time to seek professional help. A professional animal behaviorist can help correct the issue.

People Also Ask

Why Do Dogs Hump Certain Persons?

Dogs hump people because they have formed an emotional connection with them. Dogs will often hump the person they are closest to, whether it be their owner or another family member. This is because they associate that person with a feeling of safety and love.

What Does It Mean When Your Dog Humps You?

It can mean a variety of things. It could simply be an act of playfulness, or it may be an extension of their ‘affection’ towards you. Your dog might also be humping you as a way to demand more attention.

Conclusion

As you can see, it is completely normal for your dog to hump you. However, if they are doing it excessively or seem aggressive while trying to do so, try to investigate the cause of their behavior.

In my experience, the best way to stop a dog from humping is to be very consistent with rules and not give too much affection on their terms. Be sure to keep your dog well-exercised and feed them a healthy diet for a happy, well-behaved dog.

Remember that different techniques work for different dogs. If the things you’re doing aren’t working, reach out to a professional animal behaviorist for help. They will be able to correct the issue and help keep your dog from humping you in the future.

Does your dog also hump only you and ignore everyone else? What do you do when your pooch starts humping?

Share your experience in the comments section below.

Thanks for reading!

Photo of author

Lovelia Horn

I’m a certified crazy dog mom, a physical therapist (for hoomans), writer, animal rescuer, and foster home provider. Together with my hubby Ryan, I’ve fostered and helped look for forever homes for over a hundred shelter dogs in the Southern Illinois area. I mostly work with Puppy Rescue 911, Inc., a certified animal rescue organization based out of Chester, IL (home of Popeye!)

6 thoughts on “Why Does My Dog Hump Me And No One Else?”

  1. Thanks for this article! My 2 yo Amstaff female is recently rescued and had started to hump me (my arm or side when I’m sitting w her on the couch) before she lies down for the night .. it’s never any other time … She’s spayed and wasn’t doing this before for the last 2 months that we have had her. She is closest to me and I am the dominant one in the house. It was nice to read about the possible issues and be told it’s also normal. I feel much better now and will try to resolve it on my own.

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    • Agreed! We got our mini doodle about a month ago. I am the dominant one in the house and he tries to hump me all the time. He doesn’t do it with anyone else in the house and he is extremely sweet to my elderly neighbors while I am his jumping post and chew toy (he’s teething) everyone says it’s because I am his person (I sure hope so lol)

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      • I have just got a pug he is 12 weeks old and doing exactly what your dog was doing to you I understand what you have gone through my arms are covered in bruises and little sores

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  2. Apparently if it doesnt bother you its no big deal. Just a closer bond. I always thought it was because they were horny.

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  3. Thanks for your in depth information! My 4 month old min pin seems to love my hubby and me equally. (She is my puppy, but we haven’t determined whose puppy she really is, yet.)
    She only humps me and while I don’t like it, I would love to think she does it, because she thinks I’m alpha. However, it dismays me to think that she doesn’t get enough attention from me.
    Regardless, I’m glad to read that it’s normal and will try distractions and pushing her away and ignoring her to get her to stop. Thanks, again!

    Reply

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