How to Cure Dog Jealousy
In a study conducted by Dr. Friederike Range at the University of Vienna, scientists found that dogs have an innate sense of fairness and might respond with jealousy if they feel they are not receiving equal treatment. Those who have lived with dogs for any length of time didn't need science to tell them their dogs might not welcome a new spouse, baby or pet with open paws. Many dogs exhibit jealousy when a new person or animal becomes part of the family. Work through the emotions with your dog, and she will eventually accept the new person or pet.
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Instructions
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Maintain your dog's normal routine. Though a new love interest or child might change your schedule, keep your dog's routine as stable as possible.
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Schedule time each day during transition periods--such as when a new baby has come home or your new spouse moves in--that is just for you and your dog. Give the dog lots of extra attention during this time to reassure your pet that he is not losing his place in your life.
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Encourage the object of your dog's jealousy--if the object is an adult human--to spend time with the dog in play or walks. This positive interaction with the other person will help your dog's feeling of jealousy to abate.
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Reward your dog when she interacts in a positive manner with the object of her jealousy. For example, if she normally squeezes between you and your spouse when you're sitting on the couch but this time sits on the other side of you, give her a treat and praise her.
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Take your dog for at least one long walk a day--preferably two. Not only does this give you extra time to spend with your pet, exercise is often the best treatment for behavioral problems in canines.
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Train your dog with basic obedience skills or reinforce the dog's knowledge of these skills, if he is already trained. Obedience skills give the dog confidence to know what is expected of him in various situations and help you manage his behavior more effectively.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not leave your dog alone with a new pet until you are sure feelings of jealousy have been resolved. Never leave the dog alone with a baby or toddler.
