Dogs are known for their reproductive instincts and their natural desire to mate. However, sometimes dogs can become “stuck” together during the mating process, which can be alarming for pet owners who witness this behavior. In this blog post, we’ll explore why dogs get stuck together during mating and what you should do if you encounter this behavior.
What is “Stuck Together” in Dogs?
When dogs mate, the male’s penis becomes engorged with blood, which helps him achieve and maintain an erection. Once the male has ejaculated, the penis begins to deflate. According to Daily Paws, the bulbus glandis (also known as the “knot”) at the base of the penis swells. This effectively locks the two dogs together. This is a normal and natural part of the mating process in dogs. Be aware that it can last anywhere from a few minutes to over an hour.
Why Do Dogs Get Stuck Together?
As mentioned, the bulbus glandis at the base of the male dog’s penis swells during mating, which effectively locks the two dogs together. This serves a purpose in the wild, as it ensures that the male’s sperm is deposited as close to the female’s cervix as possible, increasing the likelihood of fertilization. While domesticated dogs may not have the same reproductive pressures as their wild counterparts, this behavior is still a natural part of their biology.
What Should You Do If Your Dogs Get Stuck Together?
If you witness your dogs getting stuck together during mating, it’s important to remain calm and let the process play out naturally. Attempting to separate the dogs prematurely can be painful for both dogs and can cause serious injury. Instead, let the dogs rest comfortably and wait for the bulbus glandis to deflate naturally. You may also want to consider speaking with your veterinarian about spaying or neutering your dogs to prevent unintended pregnancies.
It’s worth noting that not all dogs will get stuck together during mating. This behavior is more common in larger dog breeds or dogs with a large discrepancy in size between the male and female.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dogs get stuck together during mating due to the swelling of the bulbus glandis at the base of the male’s penis. While this behavior can be alarming for pet owners to witness, it’s a natural and normal part of the mating process in dogs. If you encounter this behavior, it’s important to remain calm and let the process play out naturally. If you have concerns about your dogs’ reproductive health, be sure to speak with your veterinarian for guidance and advice.