Do you need to chew? A case report on dogs’ behavioural needs

Abstract

AbstractA 2‐year‐old chihuahua dog exhibited recurrent mounting episodes toward both known and unknown individuals. The findings from both the physical and blood tests were unremarkable. After ruling out other physical and psychological diseases, displacement behaviour was suspected. Occurrences of mounting behaviour might sometimes be due to conditions unrelated to reproduction. As such, neutering is only advised after a precise diagnosis, and would not have been helpful in this particular situation. Chewing was used as a major activity alternative to provide the dog with an adequate behavioural activity.