poodle trying to nurse

Question
Hi, I have a miniature poodle who is now almost 1 1/2 years old, Sushi. Her favorite playmate is our 5 year old golden retriever, Dixie. Both are spayed and never had pups, the poodle was taken from her mom at 9 weeks of age. My question is from time to time Sushi will try to nurse from Dixie sometimes even sitting on her bottom and wrapping her legs around Dixie's hind legs if Dixie is standing up.  It looks real strange and Dixie seems puzzled by Sushi's behavor. Is it just due to their closeness or something else going on?

Answer
Hello Debbie,
I don't know why dogs do this even years after puppyhood, but I think it may have something to do with them being a puppy and nursing their mother.  
We have a Std Poodle who will suck on her toys and knead the toys with her feet just like puppies do with their mother.  It is like children who suck their thumb for comfort.  

You can try to correct Sushi when she does this, but I would try to give her a toy or something else to distract her instead.  Praise her when she will take the pro-offered item and play with it (or suck on it) instead.  
You might also let Dixie "correct" Sushi so that Sushi understands that Dixie doesn't want her to do that; as long as Dixie doesn't get too rough.  

Give this a try and see how it works for you.  If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

Thanks for using AllExperts.com,
Kim