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Why is my dog licking and humping his other dog after vacation?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 6 years and 2 months old | 12 lbs

Two dogs, two owners, same house. Zeke is the original dog, then moved in with his owner 4 months ago. The dogs have become fast friends. Zen, and his two owners went on vacation for a week. Since we got back, Zeke is obsessive about Zen, licking his ears licking his privates and, almost trying to hump him. Zeke is a lab, Zen a Yorkie mix. This is to the point that I'm worried to leave them alone together.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on April 5th, 2019

If Zeke is not neutered that could be part of the reason. Intact males are more likely to exhibit this behavior but it is all variable.
Even if both males are neutered, it’s possible Zeke smells a female in heat (even some neutered males will react to that) and is changing his behavior towards Zen because of it.
Don’t leave them together if there’s a concern for Zen to get hurt. Make sure Zeke gets extra exercise right now. The more tired he is, likely the better his behavior will be. Make sure to correct the unwanted behavior as soon as it happens.
Lastly, give Zen a good bath including cleansing his ears (with a pet ear cleanser). This will help to elimate any smells he may have walked through.
I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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