Hypersexuality in male dogs
There are two different mechanisms that control sexual behavior: the male sex hormones and parts of the cerebral cortex. These systems are related because steroids, including sex hormones, are thought to bind to the hypothalamic region and control both positive and negative feedback mechanisms for hormonal activity and sexual behavior.
It is important to note that there are large differences in the relative dependence of sexual behavior on androgens and the cerebral cortex, both between species and between individuals within a species. In some dogs, the sexual drive is almost completely dependent on androgens, while in others, the cerebral cortex plays the more dominant role. Hypersexuality is essentially excessive or aberrant sexual behavior, although it is also sometimes considered to encompass normal sexual behavior that is out of place within modern society.
The signs of hypersexuality are:
– Assault;
– Mount other dogs, people, inanimate objects;
– Territory marking, especially urination in the house;
– Roaming;
– Destructive behavior;
– Excitability, including excessive barking.
In a survey of 391 dogs presented at veterinary offices, 65% of dogs older than 1 year showed at least one of the aforementioned signs. A smaller percentage (52%) of dogs less than 1 year of age showed such signs. Many of the dog owners said they were not concerned about seeking treatment for this behavior. This is possibly because this type of behavior is accepted as an integral part of owning a well-rounded male dog. In fact, some of these traits are normal in male dogs and it is simply a matter of severity, frequency, and location that makes the behavior unacceptable. Control methods proven in hypersexual dogs include neutering, use of sedatives, antiandrogens, and behavior modification/training.
