Many senior dogs end up spending their golden years at shelters after being labeled “unwanted” by their families.
With inevitable health issues on the rise, some owners find it too much to take care of them, causing true heartbreak for these four-legged cuddle bugs.
At 16 years of age, Link found himself all alone, dumped by his family at a shelter. His heartbreaking cries saddened many, but one particular person decided to step in and change his situation entirely!
A Brand New Start
Carlie Cahill, from Oklahoma, saw a picture of Link posted online, and she immediately fell in love with him. Despite a plethora of health issues he had, Carlie applied in a heartbeat and brought this sweet doggo home.
When they first met, Link had no fur, and he dealt with several serious infections.
“When I picked him up from the shelter he had mange, fleas, and a yeast infection. Since then I found out he has terrible allergies and has had bacterial infections as well,” Carlie wrote on Instagram.
Link was shy and cautious at first, and he needed to acclimate to Carlie’s home first. He was still under a lot of stress due to his abandonment, and he definitely needed some time to start trusting again.
Link had a lot of support from his new family, especially his new doggo sibling, Toad. His new brother accepted him right off the bat. In a way, he perceived him as a baby, and was there for him any time Link cried or felt insecure.
“Anytime Link would sit there and whine and scratch, Toad would be right there sniffing him, nudging him,” Carlie told GeoBeats Animals.
Only days later, the two bonded like real brothers, and Link started behaving like a brand-new dog. He even picked his favorite sleeping spot in the house – Toad’s crate!
“Link loves to get cozy in Toad’s giant crate,” Carlie wrote on Instagram.
Within two years of being in Carlie’s home, Link’s fur completely transformed. He was now a brand-new fluff who enjoyed every single second of his new life.
He and Toad go on walks together, cuddle on a couch, and take cozy naps next to each other. Despite their size differences, they fit perfectly, leaving everyone they meet amazed by their wonderful relationship!
Link Enjoying His Golden Days
It is safe to say that this 18-year-old boi is enjoying his little life in Oklahoma. He has a cataract in one eye, which partially affects his sight, but Link doesn’t let that change the fact that he’s just the happiest boi!
His mom is still unsure of his bloodline. Many people suggested that he has Chihuahua in him, but considering his character and the fact that, unlike Carlie’s previous Chis, Link just loves the rain, he’s probably a different breed.
At this point, it doesn’t matter anymore, as the only thing important to Carlie is to give Link a memorable final chapter of his life!
“I feel lucky that I saw him, and I get to take care of him and make sure he’s okay, and he can feel love in the last few years of his life,” says Carlie.
Together with Toad, the three have an amazing time together, making memories for a lifetime and embarking on exciting adventures on a daily basis.
Once a crying boi mourning over the loss of his family, Link now has his own family – this time forever!
If you’ve ever been around dogs, you’ve probably witnessed the somewhat awkward behavior of humping. It’s a common sight that can leave many pet owners puzzled or even embarrassed. As a seasoned dog trainer, you understand that this behavior goes beyond just a physical act. Dogs humping can stem from various reasons, and it’s essential to decode the underlying motivations behind this behavior.
Observing why dogs hump can provide valuable insights into their social interactions, emotional state, and even their overall well-being. While it may seem like a simple action on the surface, the reasons behind it can be quite complex. So, let’s take a closer look at this behavior to gain a better understanding of what might be going on in your furry friend’s mind.
Understanding Canine Behavior
Dogs are known for their unique behaviors, including humping. This behavior can stem from various factors beyond just physical urges. Understanding why dogs hump is crucial in interpreting their communication and emotions.
Social Interaction
Humping can occur during social interactions to establish dominance or hierarchies within a pack. It may also serve as a signal for attention-seeking behavior or a way to assert control in a group setting.
Emotional State
A dog may hump due to stress, anxiety, or excitement. It can be a coping mechanism in response to changes in their environment or routine. By observing when humping occurs, you may gain insights into your dog’s emotional well-being.
Behavioral Triggers
Identifying triggers that lead to humping is essential. It could be linked to overstimulation, lack of exercise, or even medical issues. Monitoring your dog’s environment and triggers can help address and reduce humping behavior.
Communication
Dogs use humping as a form of communication. It can convey a range of messages, from playfulness to a need for boundaries. Paying attention to the context in which humping occurs can offer clues to what your dog is trying to express.
Training and Positive Reinforcement
Training techniques and positive reinforcement can help modify humping behavior. Redirecting the behavior towards appropriate activities and rewarding desired behaviors can be effective in managing humping tendencies.
Understanding why dogs hump goes beyond the physical act and provides valuable insights into their social dynamics and emotional well-being. By decoding the motivations behind this behavior, you can better connect with your furry companion and ensure their overall happiness and comfort.
The Reasons Behind Humping Behavior
When your dog engages in humping behavior, there are several reasons behind this common canine action. Understanding these motives can help you address the behavior effectively and build a better relationship with your furry companion.
1. Social Interaction and Playfulness
Dogs often hump each other as a way of interacting socially. It can be a form of playfulness, especially among young puppies who are still learning how to communicate with their peers. This behavior can also serve as a way for dogs to establish boundaries and engage in non-verbal communication.
2. Sexual Excitement
Humping can sometimes be driven by sexual instincts, particularly in intact male dogs. This behavior may be more pronounced when a female dog in heat is present or when the dog is feeling aroused.
3. Stress and Anxiety
In some cases, humping can be a response to stress or anxiety. Dogs may resort to humping as a way to cope with emotional discomfort or uncertainty in their environment. Identifying and addressing the underlying sources of stress can help reduce this behavior.
4. Attention-Seeking Behavior
Humping can be a way for dogs to seek attention from their owners or other dogs. If a dog feels neglected or is seeking interaction, they may resort to humping as a means of getting noticed.
5. Medical Issues
Occasionally, humping behavior can be linked to medical issues such as urinary tract infections, skin allergies, or other discomforts. It’s essential to rule out any underlying health problems by consulting with a veterinarian.
Understanding the reasons behind your dog’s humping behavior is the first step in effectively managing and addressing it. By recognizing the motives behind this behavior, you can take appropriate steps to support your dog’s well-being and strengthen your bond with them.
How to Manage and Address Humping Behavior
Understanding Triggers
To effectively manage and address your dog’s humping behavior, start by identifying the triggers that lead to this action. These triggers can vary from social interaction, playfulness, sexual excitement, stress and anxiety, attention-seeking behavior, to potential medical issues. By recognizing these triggers, you can take proactive steps to address the behavior.
Provide Adequate Exercise
Ensuring your dog receives enough physical and mental stimulation through regular exercise and interactive play can help reduce humping behavior caused by excess energy or boredom. Engaging your dog in activities that stimulate their mind and body can redirect their focus away from humping.
Training and Positive Reinforcement
Utilize training techniques to redirect your dog’s humping behavior towards more appropriate actions. Positive reinforcement, such as rewarding good behavior with treats or praise, can help reinforce desired conduct and discourage humping. Consistent training and patience are key to modifying this behavior.
Establish Boundaries and Consistency
Setting clear boundaries and consistent rules in your interactions with your dog can aid in managing humping behavior. Ensure that all family members and visitors adhere to these guidelines to avoid sending mixed signals to your furry companion. Consistency in your responses will help your dog understand what is acceptable behavior.
Consult a Professional
If humping behavior persists despite your efforts, consider seeking advice from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can provide tailored strategies and recommendations based on your dog’s specific situation to effectively manage and address the behavior.
Veterinary Examination
In cases where humping behavior is sudden or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian. Medical issues such as hormonal imbalances or discomfort could be underlying causes of the behavior. A thorough examination can help rule out any potential health issues.
By implementing these strategies and approaches, you can effectively manage and address your dog’s humping behavior, promoting a harmonious relationship and ensuring the well-being of your beloved pet.
Conclusion
Understanding the reasons behind your dog’s humping behavior is key to addressing it effectively and strengthening your bond. Whether it’s for social interaction, playfulness, or stress relief, knowing the triggers can help you manage the behavior. By providing exercise, training, and setting boundaries, you can guide your furry friend towards more appropriate behaviors. Seeking advice from professionals like trainers or behaviorists can offer additional support. Remember, your dog’s well-being is a top priority, so don’t hesitate to consult a vet if needed. With patience and the right approach, you can navigate humping behavior and nurture a happy, balanced relationship with your canine companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do dogs hump?
Dogs hump for various reasons like social interaction, playfulness, sexual excitement, stress, attention-seeking, or medical issues.
How can I stop my dog from humping?
Identify triggers, provide exercise, use training and positive reinforcement, set boundaries, seek advice from professionals, and consider a vet checkup.
Will neutering/spaying stop humping?
Neutering/spaying might reduce humping behavior, but it’s not a guaranteed solution as motivations vary among dogs.
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Hey there, I’m Janet Brooks, a dog-loving student from California. I’m all about helping pups in need, especially those without homes. Me and my awesome friends work together to give shelter and love to stray dogs. Oh, and I also write blogs about dogs to share helpful info.