Do Dogs Get Jealous?

Does your dog wedge between you and your partner or nudge your hand when you pet another dog? These behaviors might leave you wondering: Can dogs get jealous? 

Here’s what to know about canine jealousy and how to help your dog feel secure when sharing your attention. 

Do Dogs Get Jealous?

Yes, research suggests dogs can experience a form of jealousy, particularly when their human gives attention to another dog or person, says Wailani Sung, DVM, DACVB, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist at Joybound People & Pets in Walnut Creek, California.   

In a 2014 study, dogs reacted more strongly when their pet parent showed affection to a stuffed dog than when they paid attention to other objects. They were more likely to get between their human and the stuffed dog, push or touch their human, or snap at the stuffed dog. 

A 2021 study found similar behavior. Dogs tried harder to reach their humans when they appeared to be interacting with another dog, even when the interaction was hidden from view. 

Together, these findings suggest dogs’ reactions aren’t simply about losing attention, but about who—or what—receives it instead. 

Why Do Dogs Get Jealous?

So, what’s behind these jealous reactions? They generally stem from a dog’s attachment to a person, explains Jill Goldman, PhD, a certified applied animal behaviorist in Los Angeles. Your dog might see another person or object as competition and try to interrupt. 

Here are a few common situations that might bring out your dog’s jealous side. 

Bringing Home a New Pet 

Bringing home a new dog, cat, or other pet can shake up your dog’s routine and reduce your one-on-one time. 

Giving Another Dog Attention 

You don’t have to bring home a new pet for your dog to act jealous. Even stopping to pet another pup on a walk may be enough to spark a reaction. 

Giving Your Partner Attention 

Jealous behavior may be more common when your partner is new to your dog or has recently moved in, but it can happen with a longtime partner as well. 

Welcoming a New Baby 

A new baby brings big changes. With feeding, diapers, and cuddles keeping you busy, your dog may have fewer opportunities for fetch and quality time. 

Signs That Your Dog Is Jealous

Watch for behaviors that show up when you give another person or pet attention, such as: 

• Squeezing between you and another person or pet 
• Pushing their way onto your lap 
• Nudging your hand 
• Pawing at you 
• Jumping on you 
• Barking or whining 
• Pushing or nudging the other pet to interrupt the interaction 
• Growling or snapping at the other person or animal 

It’s important to note that these behaviors can have other motivations, Dr. Sung explains. For example, dogs who have learned that a particular behavior earns attention may repeat that behavior.   

Do Dogs Feel Jealousy Like Humans?

A dog’s experience of jealousy is probably not the same as a human’s. 

“Dogs may exhibit behaviors consistent with a basic form of jealousy, but of course, we cannot know exactly what they experience emotionally,” Dr. Sung says. 

In both dogs and people, jealous responses may arise when an important relationship seems threatened by someone else. 

But human jealousy can involve more complex thinking, such as worrying about being replaced or comparing ourselves with other people, Dr. Sung explains.  

“There is currently little evidence to support that dogs engage in those same thought processes,” she adds. 

Are Some Dogs More Likely To Be Jealous?

Research hasn’t clearly established whether dogs of certain ages or breeds are more likely to experience jealousy. In fact, Dr. Sung says jealousy in canines is most likely shaped by individual experience and personality.  

Dr. Goldman adds that she most commonly sees jealousy-like behavior in multi-dog households, particularly when a new dog joins a home with a resident dog. But even only-pet dogs can become jealous in certain situations. 

How To Help a Dog Who’s Jealous

If your dog struggles with sharing your attention:

• Make time for them. Nothing replaces one-on-one time. Provide interactive games, exercise, and snuggle opportunities, as well as routine meal and walk schedules. 

• Give them their own things. Provide your pet with their own bed, plenty of toys, and a separate feeding area. In multi-pet households, this can help reduce competition. 

• Reward calm behavior. Offer a treat when your dog stays relaxed while you give another person or pet attention. 

• Practice positive reinforcement. Never yell at your dog for acting jealous. It can cause your dog to associate the other pet or person with something unpleasant, potentially making conflict worse, Dr. Goldman explains. 
• Offer a quiet spot. Make sure they have a cozy bed and blanket where they can take a break from the newcomer. If the newcomer is another dog, give them an equally calming space. 

• Consider a calming chew. A new pet or person can bring change into your dog’s life. A calming supplement may help some dogs feel more relaxed, but always ask your vet first.  

When To See a Veterinarian or Behaviorist for Help

Occasional jealous behavior usually isn’t concerning. But “professional guidance is recommended when jealousy-like behaviors become persistent, escalate, or create conflict between pets or people,” Dr. Sung says. 

Here are signs it’s time to seek help:  

• It’s been weeks and your dog still isn’t adjusting. 
• The other pet is still struggling to adjust. 
• Your dog guards you or shows aggression. 
• The behavior starts suddenly. This could be a sign of pain or another medical issue. 

Your vet can check for underlying health concerns and may refer you to a qualified dog trainer, dog behaviorist, or veterinary behaviorist.