Top tips for dealing with jealous dogs

Does your dog growl when another dog or person walks by? Or perhaps your pooch insistently tries to get your attention when you’re doing something else? If so, your pup may be exhibiting signs of jealousy. Here are some tips for dealing with a jealous dog.

• Ignore unwanted behavior. Don’t react when your dog barks, growls, paws at you or otherwise shows signs of jealousy. If they exhibit this behavior while sitting on or near you, calmly remove them from the immediate area.

• Reward good behavior. Reward your dog with treats and attention only when they’re calm and relaxed. This will reinforce the idea that this is how you want them to behave.

• Review training exercises. If obedience classes are a distant memory, practice basic directions like sit, stay and come. This will reinforce your role as alpha, and you can use these commands when your dog is displaying unacceptable behavior.

• Include newcomers in activities. If your dog’s behavior springs from a new person entering their life, make sure that your pooch becomes acclimatized to the newcomer’s presence. Bring a new baby on walks or have your new partner practice commands with your pup. This will help your dog understand that the unfamiliar person is now part of their pack.

If your dog becomes aggressive or their behavior is affecting their health or safety, be sure to enlist the help of a professional dog trainer.