In humans, jealousy is a characteristic that is historically engraved and affects psychosocial relationships. There are many theories about the essence and its primary origin, and they all boil down to one basic theory.
It is based on a social triangle, where the presence of an intruder threatens an emotional or physical relationship between two people. Recent social research shows this trait also exists in other social species and is most pronounced in dogs.
In the presence of a triangle, where a human gives attention to another human or another animal, the dog shows signs of rivalry and sometimes aggression. Let’s dig deeper and find out more about jealous dogs.
When Do Dogs Get Jealous?
Dogs usually like daily routines and are loyal to their owners. Therefore, they expect a return of that loyalty, and any intruder in that emotional relationship can cause jealousy.
The most common causes of jealous behavior in dogs include:
- А New Pet In The Home
Dogs consider their owners to be leaders of the pact. Thus, any interaction with other dogs disturbs their image of the relationship with you.
This does not always lead to aggression, but more often to distancing, sadness and mistrust.
- Meeting New People
For your pet, the relationship between you two is unique, and any disturbance of that emotional relationship arouses restlessness in it.
Especially when it comes to woman, they feel the energies spreading between you and the woman and don’t want to open their social relationship to new members and lose a part of you.
- A Baby In The Family
Different dogs react differently to a new baby in the home. It depends on how you introduce the baby to the dog.
It is best to start making contact between them gradually and not to make a special emotional connection with the baby in front of them.
It will help if you give a reward in the form of some food or toy during every decent and normal contact with the little one.
In this way, your furry friend will begin realizing its position is not threatened and see that the baby is a member of the “pact” that needs to be protected.
- A New Routine
Dogs love to receive food, sleep, and go for walks at the exact time. Any new change brings insecurity and disloyalty to the dog.
That’s why all the changes you want to achieve need to be gradual. Or at least after a sudden change in routine, give your dog cuddles and attention for a longer period of the day.
Signs of Jealousy
You probably know your dog well and would easily recognize when he is angry and jealous.
Here are some signs that may help you recognize jealousy:
- Aggression
- Howling
- Going into the toilet while you are there
- Absence and ignoring
- Disobeying orders
- Getting between you and the other person or object
- Constantly looking for extra attention.
How To Stop The Jealousy
- Gradual emotional connection
When another dog is present in the home, the first problems with non-acceptance and jealousy usually arise.
To break the tension between pets, start with first contact when both pets are relaxed and in a calm environment.
Start by stroking one pet and then immediately do the same with the other. Give it treats and pet it again, then start feeding the new pet with the same treats.
Gradually and daily, reduce the physical distance and let them smell each other. This way, they will realize that in the presence of the other pet they get free snacks plus lots of petting.
- More Petting In The Presence of The “Enemy”
Sharing treats and hugs can be difficult for a dog. Any time a dog or a new person is nearby, a sign of jealousy will appear in your pet.
If you’re talking to a new person and your dog starts nudging and growling, start petting him too.
And when you pay attention to the person or your pet, tell him that he is a good dog and give him food.
The moment the new person or new pet walks away from you because of something caused by your dog, walk away without a word.
This way, it will realize that if it doesn’t accept the new person, it simultaneously makes the pet sad and moody. And its biggest desire is for you to be happy and give him attention.
- Objects Obsession
Dogs are possessive of their territory, clothes, food, and toys. This is normal but causes a problem when it turns into aggressive and intolerable behavior.
First, start the training by removing toys and food from the place jealousy is most likely to occur – the dog park.
Many puppies may run after toys and take them from your pup, reminding it of the strong sense of possessiveness towards it.
Instead, let it run around, socialize with other dogs, and make social connections in a neutral, no-man’s land.
Let it know that you are the master of the toys and food and that it will not get them unless it deserves some action.
Before each feeding or throwing a toy, command your furry friend to perform an activity. For example, before you feed it, tell it to sit. And until it completes the task – leave the pet hungry for a while.
What to Do When Nothing Works
Although the dog’s socialization is essential, in difficult and depressing situations, it needs social distance and freedom without triggers.
In such situations, leave it alone with you in the home and give it your time and attention.
Sometimes as much as you love your dog, you can’t help it. If you have tried all possible ways, but it does not want to cooperate and distances itself – seek professional help.
Gradually you set aside a few hours where the dog trainer and the pet will be alone – without you, and they can exercise without disturbance.
Conclusion
New studies show that jealousy is a feeling that is increasingly proven to exist in dogs.
It is always the result of the presence of a new member or a new routine in the daily emotional cycle that it has created with you.
Depending on the causes, there are several ways to stop jealousy gradually.
But if none of that helps, ask for help from experts – pet trainers and teach them to handle the dog themselves for a happier and more harmonious life in the future.