Can Dogs Be Jealous?

In the past, several studies have been carried out to understand if dogs are able to experience feelings and emotions, in the same way as humans. Well, even if many people are convinced to the contrary, science has now taken this possibility for certain. For example, one of the latest research has shown that even dogs can be jealous.

A study on dog jealousy

It is very interesting to see how such studies develop in dogs. The surprising results that are obtained are often quite surprising. As well as those of the research we are talking about here.

Austrian researchers have used pairs of dogs from the same owner. Both animals had to give paws, but after treating them in a very different way . While the former was praised and motivated by a reward, not a word was said to the latter.

When the second dog realized he had been truly wronged, he displayed feelings of anger and resentment, refusing to give his paw when asked.

These reactions, which were known only in primates, have now also become visible in dogs, pets par excellence, used to pleasing their owners, provided they receive the right consideration. Which means, cuddles, attention, affection.

Another study shows that dogs can be jealous

Hence, there is no doubt that dogs can feel jealous. There are many other studies that have shown this. In one, which took place in California, 36 different dogs were registered in their homes while their owners “listened” to other objects before them.

These items were an interactive stuffed dog that even barked, a bucket and a book. With the first two objects, the owners had to treat them as if they were their real pets, mimicking gestures and talking to them, while the book was read aloud. On all occasions the dogs’ reactions were similar.

Some ended up biting at objects, or got between them and their owners, or took them away, hiding them and eliminating them from their territory. Here is what one of the researchers says, on the sidelines of the experiment:

What are dogs jealous of?

In the latter study, it was shown that, in the presence of the stuffed dog, all participants in the experiment tended to separate the owner from this “rival”. The goal was to recover the initial advantage.

As you have seen, dogs can be jealous of anything that appears to threaten the close bond they have with their owner.

But what is the use of knowing all this? It is important to think about this topic, in order to always know how to behave if, for example, you welcome a new family member into your home . Be it human or animal.

You need to be alert for any  changes in the way you treat and show attention to your pet. Above all, avoiding neglecting habits and treatments to which he is deeply accustomed. Also, you will need to help him protect his territory. If the new member is another pet, each will be given a separate space. As well as bowls, covers or a doghouse. All elements that the other cannot invade and must respect.

Who can continue to deny that dogs have the ability to express feelings and emotions like humans? The jealousy is just one example.