Behaviour issues

Dear Connie,

I have a 20-month-old Spanish Terrier cross that has been spayed and is a really loving, affectionate girl.

She is very healthy after a poor start, we got her from a rescue centre at six weeks old.

My concern is that at times she has been ‘humping’ my arm and my husband’s. This happens when she gets over excited when playing and she now also ‘humps’ the cushions and her toy teddy.

Is this to be expected?  Should I just ignore it?

June French

Hello June,

Humping is a common behaviour in both male and female dogs.

Remove the teddy bear and cushions. When she humps you, shoo her off and make her feel uncomfortable. The behaviour will deteriorate unless you become firm.

You should also speak to your vet who will prescribe a hormone to stop this unwanted behaviour.

Best wishes, Connie.

Dear Connie,

I have a six-year-old mixed breed small female dog who was neutered five years ago.

Over the past few months she has wet herself while sleeping on about half a dozen occasions. She is very happy and confident so it is not because of nervousness, a friend said perhaps she is lacking in a certain hormone which can cause lack of bladder control.

Would you know of the name of this hormone in pill form?

Regards, Katrina Sheehan 

Dear Katrina

I strongly recommend that you take your female to the vet who will examine the dog and after examining the weight will prescribe a hormone and the quantity.

Best wishes, Connie