Dogs are fondly called man’s best friend, but sometimes, their friendship could get somewhat possessive. Yes, that’s exactly what we mean; your furry friend can get jealous of people getting close to you, and who else could be closer to you than your spouse?
Perhaps you’re wondering if it’s even possible for your dog to see your partner as a rival. Well, you do not have to take our word for it. You are about to find out yourself. Here are seven clear signs that your dog is jealous of your spouse.
1. Your dog pushes between you and your spouse
You and your partner are sitting on the couch having heartfelt chitchats. Perhaps your discussion is about how to hire Birmingham immigration lawyers at total.law. Suddenly, Fido canters into the room and immediately pushes between both of you. You thought that was an accident, but you’re wrong. The fact is that your four-legged buddy is asking your spouse to back off. We are sure you can recall many such moments.
2. Fido suddenly gets destructive
While you had your dog with you alone, you could swear your furry friend was the coolest dog in the world. Then your partner moves in with you, and your easy-going doggo suddenly becomes destructive, biting furniture and scratching the carpets.
These are clear indicators your furry friend isn’t happy with the new addition to the pack, your spouse. Dogs crave attention and can get upset when someone’s making them have less of it. These tantrums are ways to get your attention and show displeasure at the “intruding partner.”
3. Excessive licking of the paws
While some dogs can barge between you and your partner as a sign of jealousy, others show it more subtly. Look out for times your dog moves closer to you before your spouse. If your dog licks its paws more than you consider normal at those times, your furry friend is probably wondering why you are spending that moment with your partner than with them.
A simple rub of your dog’s head can be reassuring and ease the situation. You, your mate, or both of you can do this to reassure the dog that you care.
4. Exiting the room on sighting your partner
Like humans, dogs could choose to go hiding when they discover an unwanted presence, which you welcome. If your dog is always having somewhere to be whenever your spouse shows up, that’s a clear indicator that your furry friend isn’t a fan of your partner.
Before establishing this suspicion, you should watch to see if your canine friend does the same to other visitors. If the answer is negative, that’s confirmation that Fido is jealous of your spouse.
5. Unwarranted aggression
From barking to snarling, dogs can get aggressive when they feel threatened or sense an intruder. That’s a natural reaction of dogs when a new member is about to be introduced into their pack. In this case, you’ve been great buddies, and your sweetheart is the supposed new addition, and dogs don’t like to share.
You should first try to calm your dog by speaking softly. You can employ a harsh rebuke should your dog become too aggressive for your mate. You should stand your ground with your partner till your furry friend accepts their presence.
6. Doing tricks without your request
Dogs can be innovative when they need to get your attention. Your furry friend may notice that you’ve been spending time with your spouse and paying little attention to them. All of a sudden, Fido decides to go all-out to impress you with those tricks you’ve been practicing together.
During that period, you may find your dog standing on both feet, running in circles, and tossing a ball at you, to mention a few. Your dog is saying, “isn’t it time you let your partner go and play with me?
We hope you can read these signs. Your dog is jealous of whatever is denying them your attention, in this case, your spouse.
7. Pooing at the wrong place
Dogs may poop or urinate in the house even when you’ve trained them to go to a designated place for this call of nature for several reasons. Old age, medical issues, and stress are the common reasons dogs defecate anywhere. But don’t be surprised, your dog may pull this stunt whenever they are jealous.
You might wonder, “how do passing droppings indoors mean jealousy?” First, understand that your dog is not being vengeful but only feeling anxious by urinating or defecating within the house. Dog experts reveal that this inappropriate behavior is a way to convey their high level of tension and separation anxiety or jealousy.
Final Notes
With a spouse visa, you can sponsor your partner to come over if you’re alone with your dog. A dog’s jealousy isn’t something to worry about if you know how to handle the situation. Your partner’s presence shouldn’t stop you from showing your dog some care. It would be even better if your partner is a dog lover and bonds quickly with your furry friend.