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You walk into the living room and catch your male dog mounting another male dog. Your first thought: “Wait, can dogs be gay?” It’s a question more pet parents are asking—and it’s not as far-fetched as it sounds.
While it’s tempting to interpret our dogs’ behavior through a human lens, the truth is more scientific, instinctual, and (honestly) a little more entertaining than you might expect.
So before you cue up Lady Gaga and encourage your dog to “put your paws up,” it’s worth understanding what’s really going on.
It’s Not Just Your Dog: Same-Sex Behavior Is Common In The Animal Kingdom
Before you start Googling “puppy pride parade,” let’s take a step back. Scientists have documented same-sex sexual behavior (SSSB) in over 1,500 animal species, and in mammals, it’s far more common—and complex—than many people realize.
A 2023 study published in Nature Communications found that animals engage in all kinds of same-sex behaviors—from mounting and genital contact to flirting (aka courtship) and even forming bonded pairs. The most frequent displays involve mounting and genital contact (87% of species), while nearly a quarter exhibit pair bonding between same-sex individuals.
Most of the time, these behaviors aren’t just random. In social species like dogs, they can help keep the peace, reduce fights, and build friendships—kind of like a fuzzy handshake or an awkward but effective icebreaker.
And these behaviors are not limited to dog parks. Roughly 83% of species showing SSSB do so in wild or semi-wild environments—disproving the myth that it’s a quirk of domestication or confinement.
In about 40% of these species, same-sex behavior occurs regularly during mating season. Rather than being an evolutionary rarity, researchers suggest that same-sex behavior is a social strategy to form alliances, reduce aggression, and maintain peace within a group.
More Than Mounting: Other Forms of Same-Sex Behavior On Dogs
Mounting may be the most noticeable form of same-sex behavior in dogs, but it is far from the only one. Researchers have observed a wide range of same-sex interactions that go beyond play or dominance, including:
- Courtship rituals like playful chasing, body rubbing, or mutual licking
- Genital contact, where dogs sniff, nuzzle, or gently lick one another’s genitals without aggression or intent to reproduce
- Pair bonding, in which two dogs of the same sex form long-term social attachments, often choosing to sleep next to each other, groom each other, or stay physically close
These behaviors are not necessarily sexual in the way we understand human intimacy. Instead, they are part of a broader toolkit dogs use to communicate, establish trust, and navigate complex social settings.
Why Dogs Mount Each Other: Play, Hormones & Pack Dynamics
Let’s get one thing straight (pun intended): when dogs mount each other—whether it’s same-sex or opposite-sex—it’s not always about sex.
Mounting isn’t just about play or mischief—it can reflect deeper dynamics in your dog’s emotional and social world. Here’s what might be going on when male dogs mount each other, especially in same-sex contexts.
It’s Not Always Sexual
Mounting is one of those “it depends” behaviors. Yes, it can be related to mating instincts, but it’s often something completely different—like play, excitement, or even a social power move.
Dogs might mount each other during:
- Roughhousing or play sessions
- High-energy greetings or overstimulation
- Bouts of boredom or anxiety
- Moments of social posturing
In most cases, they’re not “flirting”; they’re navigating their world using the tools evolution gave them.
Stress, Excitement & Social Tension
Sometimes dogs don’t know what to do with all their feelings—especially in new or chaotic environments. Mounting can become an outlet for nervous energy or uncertainty, especially during intense play or meeting new dogs.
It’s kind of like a canine version of nail-biting or fidgeting. Different? Sure. But natural? Absolutely.
The Hormone Factor
You might assume this behavior always comes from “raging hormones,” but that’s only part of the story.
According to the UC Davis Veterinary Behavior Service, mounting can occur in both intact and neutered dogs, meaning sex hormones aren’t the only trigger. Sometimes, the behavior is tied to arousal in a broader sense—excitement, stress, or frustration—not just reproduction.
Breed Quirks & Personality Types
Some dogs are simply more … expressive. Breeds like Labradors, Boxers, and herding dogs tend to be high-energy and social, which may make them more prone to mounting.
Likewise, dogs with anxious or dominant personalities may turn to mounting as a way to test boundaries or cope with overstimulation.
When To Step In: Normal vs Problematic Behavior
Mounting is a common part of how dogs interact; in many cases, it is nothing to be alarmed about. However, there are situations where this behavior can become excessive or disruptive.
If your dog’s mounting starts interfering with social situations, triggers conflict with other dogs, or involves humans or objects inappropriately, it may be time to take action.
Here is how to tell the difference between harmless behavior and something requiring your attention.
What’s Considered Normal Behavior
Mounting is often completely natural, especially when it happens occasionally and in a social context. Many dogs will mount during play or moments of high excitement, particularly in stimulating environments like dog parks or when meeting new dogs.
Mounting is generally not a concern if:
- It occurs occasionally during play or excitement
- Your dog stops when interrupted or redirected
- The behavior does not appear obsessive or ritualistic
- Other dogs involved are not showing signs of stress or discomfort
In these situations, mounting is usually just another part of canine communication, similar to barking or wrestling. While it might seem awkward to humans, it is typically not cause for concern.
Signs The Behavior Might Be A Problem
Mounting becomes an issue when it is frequent, intense, or directed inappropriately. If your dog seems fixated on mounting, especially in specific settings or around certain dogs or people, it may signal underlying stress, anxiety, or a lack of proper stimulation.
You should consider stepping in if:
- Your dog mounts excessively or obsessively
- The behavior appears to be compulsive and occurs across multiple settings
- Mounting causes conflict or discomfort for other dogs
- Your dog directs the behavior at humans, small children, or inanimate objects
- Your dog becomes anxious, aggressive, or overly excited when interrupted
These patterns may indicate that mounting is no longer a social behavior but a coping mechanism or stress response. Dogs sometimes rely on repetitive actions like mounting to self-soothe when they are overstimulated or unsure how to navigate a social situation.
What You Can Do About It
Fortunately, there are several ways to help redirect or reduce inappropriate mounting. Most of these solutions focus on increasing structure, reducing stress, and teaching your dog alternative ways to cope with stimulation.
- Redirect the behavior: If your dog begins to mount, calmly interrupt and redirect them toward another activity, such as playing with a toy, practicing commands, or going for a short walk.
- Increase mental and physical stimulation: Many dogs mount out of boredom. Daily exercise, training games, and enrichment activities can help your dog burn off energy in healthier ways.
- Avoid reinforcing the behavior: Dogs may repeat behaviors that get a big reaction. Laughing, scolding, or showing visible embarrassment may unintentionally reinforce mounting. Try to stay calm and neutral.
- Manage triggers and settings: If your dog only mounts in certain places or around certain dogs, consider whether those environments are too stimulating or stressful and limit exposure until the behavior improves.
As the ASPCA explains, mounting can become a compulsive habit if left unchecked, especially when it draws a strong emotional response from people. Over time, this can make the behavior more persistent and challenging to manage.
Consult your veterinarian or a certified behaviorist if the mounting is severe, compulsive, or tied to other behavioral changes. A professional can help identify root causes and create a training plan tailored to your dog’s needs.
Mounting is not inherently bad or unnatural, but like many canine behaviors, it can become problematic if unmanaged. Attention to patterns, context, and frequency can help you determine when it is just a social quirk and when your dog might need a little extra guidance.
Humans vs Dogs: Avoiding The Anthropomorphic Trap
When pet owners see their male dog mounting another male, it is tempting to interpret the behavior through a human lens. But while it is natural to want to understand animals in relatable terms, doing so can sometimes cloud the real meaning behind their behavior.
Dogs do not operate with the same sense of identity that humans do. They do not think in terms of gender roles, romantic preferences, or social labels. Mounting, including same-sex mounting, is not a declaration of sexual orientation; it is a behavior driven by instinct, emotion, and environment.
In the scientific community, this distinction is clear. The term “same-sex sexual behavior” (SSSB) is used to describe actions like mounting, genital contact, courtship, and pair bonding between individuals of the same sex. It is a description of observable behavior, not a judgment about identity or orientation.
Applying human social categories to dog behavior may lead to misunderstanding and even unnecessary concern. Instead of asking, “Is my dog gay?” a better question might be, “What is my dog trying to communicate in this situation?”
Shifting the focus from identity to context allows us to respond more thoughtfully and accurately.
Understanding our pets requires us to observe them on their terms, not ours. Recognizing the gap between human identity and animal behavior makes us more informed, compassionate, and effective caregivers.
A Moment Of Pride (And A Lot Of Tail Wagging)
While the science of same-sex behavior in dogs is fascinating, it’s okay to celebrate the fun side, too.
Across the United States, pet parents have found joyful ways to include their furry companions in Pride Month festivities—including hosting dog pride parades where pups can show off their personalities in full color.
If you need a break from behavioral theory, this joyful video from the 2024 Des Moines Capital City PrideFest Dog Pride Parade is worth a watch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Same-sex behavior in dogs can be confusing at first, especially when it looks similar to behaviors we associate with human sexuality. Here are some of the most common questions of pet owners and what the science and experts say in response. Don’t see yours? Ask us in the comments!
Can Dogs Be Gay?
Not in the human sense. Dogs do not experience or express sexual orientation the way people do.
Same-sex mounting and related behaviors are typically about play, dominance, stress, or social bonding—not attraction or identity.
Why Does My Neutered Dog Still Mount Other Dogs?
Mounting is not always about hormones. While intact dogs may show more of this behavior, neutered dogs often mount due to excitement, habit, stress, or social signaling. It is a learned and situational behavior, not just a hormonal one.
Is Same-Sex Mounting A Sign Of Dominance?
Sometimes, but not always. Mounting can be one way dogs assert social rank, but it is also seen during play, in high-energy situations, or as a stress response. Context matters more than the act itself.
Should I Be Concerned About My Dog’s Mounting?
Occasional mounting is normal and usually nothing to worry about. However, if your dog mounts obsessively, targets people or objects, or causes tension with other dogs, it may be time to intervene or seek professional guidance.
Can Female Dogs Mount Other Female Dogs?
Yes. Same-sex mounting is not limited to male dogs.
Female dogs may mount other females (or males) for similar reasons: play, social signaling, or excitement. The behavior occurs across both sexes and many breeds.
For a deeper look at female dog behavior, check out our article on why female dogs hump male dogs.
What Do I Do If My Dog Humps Too Much?
While mounting or humping can be perfectly normal behaviors, some dogs take it to the extreme. If your furry friend frequently humps people’s legs or other animals (or if you just can’t stand the occasional occurrence), a bit of training can usually nip it in the bud.
We recommend these online dog training courses if you need some guidance. However, if your pup is exhibiting aggressive behavior along with humping, you may want to consider a certified animal behaviorist.
