13 Signs Your Dog Is Jealous Of Your Significant Other

Have you ever felt like your furry friend is secretly plotting against your partner?

Well, we hate to break it to you, but your pup might just be jealous!

This article reveals the top 13 signs your dog is jealous of your significant other.

So get ready for some surprising and downright hilarious behaviors that your furry friend might be exhibiting.

Who knows, you might even learn something new about your pup’s emotional intelligence!

So, let’s dive into the world of doggie jealousy – you won’t want to miss this one!

They Cower Or Avoid Your Partner

This is a sure sign that your dog is not feeling comfortable around your partner, and it’s time to investigate.

Your dog might be sensing some negative energy or picking up on some tension between you and your partner.

Dogs are very good at reading human emotions, and if they sense that your partner makes you upset or anxious, they may start to avoid them.

To ensure a positive interaction with your furry friend, it’s important to emit positive energy.

Encourage your partner to also bond with your dog by offering them treats or engaging in a game of fetch.

The Dog Doesn’t Let Your Partner Near Them When They’re Eating Or Drinking

Dogs are very protective of their food, and if they feel like someone is trying to take it away, they may become aggressive.

If your dog starts growling or snapping at your partner while they’re munching, then that’s a clear indication of jealousy.

It’s like your dog is saying “step away from my bowl, human!”

So, watch out for those aggressive vibes and maybe consider having a separate feeding area for your furry friend to avoid any unpleasant situations.

Your Dog Barks And Growls When Your Partner Is Around, Even If They’re Just Giving Them A Pat On The Head

Your dog might be feeling like they’re not getting enough attention, and the last thing they want is someone stealing their spotlight!

Dogs can become very protective of their owners, and if they feel like someone is taking attention away from them, they may become jealous.

So, make sure your partner spends some quality time with your pooch, playing, and cuddling them.

That way, your dog will know that they’re still top dog in your heart!

Your Dog Is Destroying Your Partner’s Things

When your partner is away, your dog may destroy their possessions to seek your attention.

When they feel threatened, dogs may behave out.

Refusing To Eat Or Drink When Your Partner Is Present

This behavior is a clear indication that your dog is upset and doesn’t feel comfortable with your partner around.

It can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as feeling neglected or anxious about the presence of a new person in the household.

If your dog is exhibiting this behavior, it’s essential to address it as soon as possible.

You can try feeding your dog separately from your partner or giving them treats or toys to distract them.

You can also gradually introduce your partner to your dog and give them time to get used to each other’s presence.

Sleeping In A Different Location Or At A Different Time Than Usual When Your Partner Is Around

This behavior can be a sign that your dog is feeling left out and is trying to get your attention.

It can also be a sign that your dog feels uncomfortable around your partner and is trying to avoid them.

If your dog is exhibiting this behavior, it’s important to create a safe and comfortable space for them where they can retreat to when they feel anxious or overwhelmed.

You can also try spending more one-on-one time with your dog and engaging in activities they enjoy to strengthen your bond.

Aggression Towards Your Partner

If your dog is growling or snapping at your partner, it’s important to address this behavior right away.

It can be a sign that your dog is feeling insecure or threatened about their place in the pack.

This can be a difficult behavior to manage, but with patience and training, you can help your dog feel more secure and less jealous.

Spending A Lot Of Time Sleeping Near Where Your Partner Usually Sits When You’re Not Around

This behavior is often an attempt to claim your partner’s spot and assert their dominance in the household.

It can also be a sign that they’re trying to send a message that your partner is not welcome or that they are encroaching on their territory.

This can be especially apparent when your partner tries to sit in their usual spot and your dog gets restless or anxious.

You may notice that your furry friend starts to pace or whine, or they may even try to nudge your partner off the seat.

This behavior can be challenging to address, but it’s essential to set boundaries and let your dog know that it’s not acceptable.

Pulling On The Leash More Than Usual When You Go For Walks Together

Dogs are pack animals, and they have a natural hierarchy within their group. 

When a new member joins the pack, they may feel the need to establish their position and show that they’re the alpha dog.

Your Dog Gets Extremely Excited When You Come Home, But Doesn’t React To Your Partner In The Same Way

It’s important to remember that dogs form strong bonds with their owners, and when they feel like they’re not getting enough attention or affection, they may act out.

This can manifest as following you around the house or ignoring your partner altogether.

Refuses To Pee Or Poop Unless You’re There Too

Dogs are creatures of habit, and they often have specific routines when it comes to going to the bathroom.

If your dog is hesitant to do their business with someone else, it’s a sign that they’re not comfortable or feel that the person is not trustworthy.

Being Possessive Over Objects Or Areas Of The Home

If your dog has recently become increasingly possessive over objects or areas of the home, it may be a sign of jealousy.

A jealous dog will often regard their owner’s partner as an intruder, and use aggression to keep them away.

Dogs that display these tendencies may need to be trained to show respect and restraint when around their owners’ partners.

Behavior modification exercises are recommended in these cases, as they increase communication between owner and pet and establish more appropriate boundary lines between different members of the household.

Snapping Or Biting At Them

This behavior can occur when your dog feels threatened by the attention you’re giving to your partner and sees them as a competitor for your affection. 

It can also happen when your dog feels that their personal space is being invaded or that their role in the household is being challenged.

If you notice your dog exhibiting this behavior, it’s important to address it immediately.

You can do this by teaching your dog to obey basic commands such as “sit” or “stay” and rewarding them for good behavior.

You can also limit your dog’s access to your partner until they become more comfortable around them.

So, What Can You Do If You Notice These Signs In Your Dog?

First and foremost, it’s important to make sure that your dog is getting enough attention and affection from both you and your partner.

It’s also important to set clear limits and rules for behavior, and to reinforce these rules consistently with positive reinforcement.

If your dog is showing signs of aggression towards your partner, it may be necessary to seek out professional training or behavior modification.

It’s important to address this behavior before it escalates, both for your dog’s safety and the safety of those around them.

At the end of the day, understanding and managing jealousy in dogs is all about creating a sense of security and stability within the pack.

With patience and consistency, you may make your dog feel more safe and less envious, making everyone happier and healthier.

Before You Go…

You now know the signs your dog is jealous of your significant other.

If you want to learn more, read the following articles too!

Mena Emad, DVM
Mena has a Bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine. His expertise, passion for animal welfare, extensive knowledge, and experience in the field of veterinary medicine make him an excellent resource for our readers.