Do Dogs Feel Jealousy Toward Other Pets or Babies? | Dogylover.in

Dogs are often called man’s best friend, and for good reason. They shower us with unconditional love, loyalty, and affection. But what happens when a new baby enters the home—or when another pet joins the family pack? Many dog owners notice changes in their pup’s behavior. Suddenly, the once cheerful, tail-wagging companion may start whining, barking, sulking, or even displaying aggressive tendencies.

This leads to the big question: Do dogs actually feel jealousy, or are we just projecting human emotions onto them?

The answer may surprise you. Science suggests that dogs are capable of experiencing jealousy-like emotions, especially when their bond with their favorite human feels threatened.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore:

• What jealousy looks like in dogs.
• Why dogs react to new pets or babies.
• How science explains canine jealousy.
• Ways to ease your dog’s adjustment to a growing family.
• Practical training tips to prevent problems.

🐾 Understanding Canine Emotions

For years, experts debated whether dogs were capable of “complex emotions” like jealousy. While it’s clear that dogs feel joy, fear, sadness, and love, the question of jealousy was more controversial.

But a study published in PLOS ONE (2014) revealed that dogs displayed jealous behaviors when their owners gave attention to a stuffed dog that barked and wagged its tail. Dogs pushed their owners, tried to get between them and the stuffed dog, and even snapped at the toy.

👉 According to AKC (American Kennel Club), this indicates that dogs can feel an emotion similar to human jealousy—although it may not be identical to the complex version we experience.

🐶 Signs of Jealousy in Dogs

When a dog feels left out or threatened by another baby or pet, they may show:

• Attention-seeking behavior → pawing, whining, barking when you interact with someone else.
• Resource guarding → protecting toys, food bowls, or even you.
• Aggression → growling, snapping, or lunging.
• Depression or withdrawal → avoiding eye contact, losing interest in play.
• Destructive behavior → chewing furniture, scratching doors, or bathroom accidents.
• Increased clinginess → following you everywhere.

These behaviors aren’t “bad manners.” They’re often signs that your dog feels insecure about their place in the family pack.

👶 Dogs & Jealousy Toward Babies

Bringing a new baby home is one of the most life-changing events for a family—and for the family dog, too.

Why Dogs May Feel Jealous of Babies:

1. Shift in attention → Suddenly, the baby gets most of your time and affection.
2. New smells and sounds → Crying, diapers, baby lotion—all unfamiliar stimuli.
3. Routine disruption → Walks, feeding, and playtime may become irregular.
4. Physical space → Baby gates, cribs, and playpens may restrict the dog’s freedom.

👉 Some dogs adapt quickly, while others struggle with feelings of confusion or jealousy.

At Dogylover.in, we’ve discussed similar emotional reactions in our post on Do Dogs Feel Left Out When We’re on the Phone?. Just like phones compete for attention, babies can too—but on a much larger scale.

🐕 Dogs & Jealousy Toward Other Pets

Introducing a second dog, cat, or small pet often sparks tension. Dogs, being pack animals, thrive on hierarchy and attention. A new pet disrupts that balance.

Why Dogs May Get Jealous of New Pets:

• They feel like they’re losing their alpha position.
• They worry about competition for food, toys, and affection.
• They may not understand the newcomer’s role in the family.

👉 Similar to how some dogs bark when you laugh (because they think your joy isn’t directed at them), jealousy over other pets is about insecurity and attention. See our post on Why Does My Dog Bark Only When I Laugh? for a related example.

🔬 What Science Says About Dog Jealousy

• Brain Chemistry → Dogs release oxytocin (the bonding hormone) when interacting with humans. When they see that bond threatened, it triggers protective behavior.
• Evolutionary Perspective → In the wild, dogs lived in packs. Maintaining rank and securing resources was vital. Jealousy-like behaviors may be survival instincts.
• Cognitive Studies → Dogs may not understand “jealousy” the way humans do, but their actions mimic the emotion closely enough that researchers consider it a real phenomenon.

🧠 How to Tell Jealousy from Other Issues

Not every growl or sulk is jealousy. Sometimes, dogs act out because of:

• Anxiety (change in routine).
• Boredom (not enough play or exercise).
• Fear (new noises, new smells).

👉 If your dog only acts differently when you’re giving attention to the baby or another pet, jealousy is likely the cause.

🛠️ How to Help Your Dog Adjust to a New Baby

1. Prepare Early → Let your dog sniff baby lotion, hear recordings of baby cries, and see nursery changes.
2. Reinforce Training → Commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” are essential.
3. Positive Association → Reward calm behavior around the baby with treats and praise.
4. Keep Routines Consistent → Regular walks and mealtimes provide stability.
5. Give Them Special Time → Even 10 minutes of undivided play or cuddles each day helps.

🛠️ How to Help Your Dog Adjust to a New Pet

1. Neutral Introduction → Meet in a neutral space like a park.
2. Equal Attention → Avoid showing favoritism.
3. Separate Resources → Provide individual food bowls, toys, and beds.
4. Supervised Interactions → Prevent fights and build trust slowly.
5. Reward Sharing → Praise when your dog tolerates or plays gently with the new pet.

🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can dogs really feel jealous like humans do?

Not in the exact same way, but they do display jealousy-like emotions, especially when they feel excluded.

2. Is jealousy harmful in dogs?

It can be if it turns into aggression or depression. Early training and reassurance prevent this.

3. Will my dog ever stop being jealous of my baby?

Yes—with time, training, and patience, most dogs adjust and even become protective big siblings.

4. Are some breeds more prone to jealousy?

Yes. Velcro dogs like Labradors, German Shepherds, and Terriers often struggle more because they’re so bonded to their humans.

📖 Related Reads on Dogylover.in

• 👉 Do Dogs Feel Left Out When We’re on the Phone?
• 👉 Why Does My Dog Bark Only When I Laugh?
• 👉 Why Does My Dog Look Guilty When I Scold Him?
• 👉 Do Dogs Understand When We’re Talking About Them?

🌟 Final Thoughts

Dogs absolutely can feel jealousy-like emotions, especially when it comes to sharing their favorite human with babies or other pets. While they may not understand the situation the way we do, their behaviors—barking, sulking, pawing—show they’re trying to cope with big changes.

The key is patience, empathy, and consistent training. By preparing your dog, giving them reassurance, and making them feel included, you can help them accept the new addition—whether it’s a baby or another pet—without damaging their confidence or your bond.

At the end of the day, jealousy is just another sign of how deeply your dog values you. And with love and guidance, they can learn that your heart has room for everyone—two-legged and four-legged alike. ❤️🐾

👉 For more guides on understanding your furry friend’s emotions, visit Dogylover.in.