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We all love our dogs, just like they were a human member of the family. Our dogs love us just the same. Sometimes though, it may seem that our dogs get a bit jealous or even sometimes possessive of our company.
A study done by researchers at US Sand Diego has found evidence that this almost human-like jealousy dose have some truth behind it. It seemed to shine through especially when their humans were interacting and showing affection to another dog.
There were a total of 36 dogs selected as test subjects. Psychology professor Christine Harris and a former student, Caroline Prouvost started a study where dogs would watch their humans petting and showing affection to an animated toy dog. The real dogs would then begin to show signs of jealousy, and often act out in attention seeking behavior. Many would even directly get between the toy dog and their human.
According to a press release from Christine Harris, “Our study suggests not only that dogs do engage in what appears to be jealous behaviors, but also that they were seeking to break up the connection between the owners and a seeming rival.”
They suggest that if your dog does begin to act out and show signs of jealousy, you may want to return to your dog, and bestow an extra treat, and some extra love and affection. Just to make sure they remember that you are their human, and they are your dog.
If you’d like to read the full press release, you can check it out on the UC San Diego website by clicking here.
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