What to Do About a Dog Jealous of My Partner?

Determining the Cause of Jealousy

• Many times the cause of a dog's jealous behavior is more complex than it not liking your partner. Determine what exactly triggers your dog's jealous response. In some cases, touching or embracing can cause a dog to become jealous and protective of its owner. Pay attention to you dog's behavior such as keeping its head low to the ground, tail tucked between its legs or growling and barking. You must know what is specifically bothering your pet before you can help train it to be less jealous and avoid the problem escalating into aggressive behavior.

Establishing Leadership

• You should never scold or punish your dog for exhibiting jealous behavior, as this behavior is often part of its natural protective instincts. Instead, you should show your dog that you are the leader and firmly discourage the behavior. Your dog is testing its boundaries and attempting to act as the "pack leader" when it tries to get your attention whenever you're with your partner. Firmly stand between your dog and partner and state the word "no" in a firm voice. If the dog persists, remove your dog from the situation and allow it to calm down. Once your dog is calm reward it with a treat before placing it near your partner again. You may also have to crate your dog or keep it in a separate room until it calms down. Show your leadership by not letting the dog re-enter the situation and be around you or any other people until it is calm.

Practice Interactions

• Repittion is one of the best ways for dogs to learn correct behavior. Setting up practice interactions is a great way to teach your dog the correct behavior and the wrong behavior. Recreate the trigger to your dog's jealous responses. For example, if you notice your dog exhibits jealous behavior when your partner walks in your house and gives you a hug, you need to set up a fake scenario where this happens. Begin with another non-family member who your dog does not know. Have him enter the house as your spouse would. Ignore your dog's behavior until it is calm and in a submissive mode. Once it is, say "good boy" and give it a treat. It may take a while for your dog to stop at first, but keep repeating the exercise. Once your dog is calm right away, do the practice interaction with your spouse, over and over again, rewarding your dog when it remains calm and submissive during the interaction.

One-on-One Time

• Once your dog has started to become more comfortable with the presence of your partner, it is important that your partner and your dog develop a realationship of their own. Your partner should also show his leadership skills with your dog so that your dog will begin to respect your partner. Begin these interactions by playing a game, such as fetch, with your dog while your partner is present. As you begin to play, start letting your partner throw the ball and gradually bring him into the game. Do the same thing when giving your dog's walks or commands, have your partner start giving the treats and rewards for correct commands, and then start having him give commands of his own. Begin these exercises with you and your partner present and eventually let your partner and your dog do these things on their own, one-on-one. This will teach your dog to trust, respect and enjoy the company of your partner.