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Canine Behavior/dominance
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Question
My 1 1/2 yr. old spayed chocolate lab tries to hump dogs that are her own size. Why? Is she trying to show dominance?
More like insecurity. If she was confident she would not have to go so far to prove it.
Or it could be learned. As in "everyone laughs when I do this". Either way, simply calling her away will reduce it-social distance is what she needs when she acts this way. It's her way of saying "I'm nervous".
Problem is, she does it to the wrong dog and they will take her face off for being inappropriate and you will have another potential problem.
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thank you for your advice. I do walk her away when she does this. Never thought it could be nervousness. | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Elaine Allison CPDT
Expertise
I can answer questions (within reason) about aggression. In an email format we have to be responsible and not speculate where an in home evaluation would be appropriate. I cannot answer medical questions.
Experience
19 years professional full time, hands on experience.
Publications
Dog Fancy, book on aggression coming soon from Dogwise publishing.
Education/Credentials
Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT) Endorsed member NADOI (National Association of Pet dog trainers) and certied multiple time in explosives and narcotics detection. I have my own working explosive/protection dogs.
Past/Present Clients
Currently Director of Animal Services for a Utah humane society.
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