While jealousy is not exclusive to any one breed, some dogs naturally have traits that may make them more prone to jealous behavior. For example, a breed that’s known for loyalty can also be inclined to being overprotective. A breed that’s known for being super affectionate may be inclined to attention-seeking behavior.
If your dog is one of the most jealous dog breeds, don’t worry. With proper training, tools, and education for the both of you, jealous behavior can become a thing of the past. All it takes is patience, understanding, and dedication.
Wondering if you’ll find your pet on the list of the most jealous dog breeds? Read on to learn about small, medium-sized, and large jealous breeds. You’ll also learn what traits likely cause them to act out due to envy.
Large Jealous Breeds
1. Golden Retriever
Known for being social and loveable goofballs, you may be surprised to see Goldens on the list of most jealous dog breeds. However, like many humans, Golden Retrievers usually need time to open up to new people and pets. Because they love playing with their owner so much, they may act out in order to draw your attention back to them.
2. Labrador Retriever
Labradors are one of the top 10 dog breeds that require an abundance of attention. If you have a Lab, chances are you’re used to your dog being your shadow and crawling into your lap as if they were a teacup chihuahua. Affection from your pet is always welcome, but it’s important to keep an eye on this trait, as it often is accompanied by jealousy.
3. German Short-Haired Pointer
Because they were initially bred to be hunting dogs, it makes sense that the German Short-Haired Pointer is prone to jealousy. These dogs naturally want to be the dominant dog in the home, and can be extremely protective of their master. Thanks to their hunting blood, you might find your Pointer pup destroying your couch cushions or jumping excessively when they feel jealous.
4. American Pit Bull Terrier
Sadly, Pit Bull’s are often labeled as aggressive. However, Pitties are actually very caring and affectionate — they usually just need a loving environment and the right training. Their strong loyalty does make them one of the most jealous breeds, but with the right training, they’ll probably be a happy, social addition to your family.
Medium-Sized Jealous Breeds
1. Australian Shepherd
These long-haired beauties can certainly be prone to jealousy. Naturally protective creatures, Aussies’ protective instincts may kick in when they see a new person or animal with you. Thankfully, positive reinforcement and treats can help solve this problem.
2. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels typically loved to be doted on, and who could blame them? Their jealous behavior may seem sweet at first, until the non-stop barking begins. This breed has a lot of energy, so helping them fight boredom and giving them the right training will help.
3. Border Collie
Bred to herd cattle, Border Collies are naturally very smart and athletic dogs. They tend to be “one-person” dogs, meaning they’re both very protective of and emotionally attached to their person. Thanks to their intelligence, though, teaching them commands to combat jealous behavior shouldn’t be too difficult.
Small Jealous Breeds
1. Boston Terrier
These dogs just love being the center of attention. They’ll do anything to get your attention, too, including lots and lots of barking. If you have a Boston Terrier, you may have experienced your pup barking at you even when you’re just doing chores because they feel your attention should be on them.
2. Dachshund
Don’t be fooled by their small stature: These pups have huge personalities! They’re also stubborn and mistrusting of strangers. This, combined with the love they have for their owner, may lead to jealous behavior in the form of whining, barking, and nipping.
3. French Bulldog
Many believe the most jealous dog breed is the French Bulldog. These pups tend to bark incessantly at strangers that come even close to their owners. Most Frenchie owners probably know to expect their dog to throw a tantrum when another person or pet gets attention over them.
It will likely take time to address and correct this behavior. This behavior can also be a symptom of separation anxiety and/or boredom. Providing your Frenchie lots of toys will probably help fix their boredom, and teaching them to coexist with other pets typically helps with anxiety.
In Conclusion
Being prone to jealousy doesn’t make these breeds naturally “bad” dogs. In fact, many of these traits that motivate their jealousy are probably ones you desire your pet to have. If your pup is on the list of most jealous dog breeds, it just means they require some extra effort and training from you.
There probably isn’t any dog breed that acts jealous simply because they want to. More than likely, your dog is showing you they’re jealous because they’re trying to send you a message. The message they want you to know could be something like, “I’m nervous about my place in our pack,” or, “I don’t trust this person/pet yet, and I’m keeping you safe by keeping them away from you.”
If you notice jealous behavior in your dog — even if they are not one of the breeds mentioned above — it’s important to address it. Do research on your pet’s breed to help identify the root of the issue to help identify what their triggers are. Taking the steps to train your dog to not act jealous should make your dog happier and your relationship with it even stronger than before!