Episode 273: Transcending Jealousy in people and dogs

Jealousy and envy, often used interchangeably, have distinct meanings. Jealousy is the fear of losing something we possess to someone else, while envy involves desiring something someone else has. Both emotions aren't limited to just humans. Our canine companions, too, show signs that could be interpreted as jealousy. For humans, jealousy can arise from intricate emotional scenarios, such as witnessing a loved one grow closer to someone else or professional setbacks. In dogs, the manifestations are more direct: a pet owner showering affection on another pet often leads to those unmistakable whines and nudges. However, it's worth delving deeper into canine "jealousy." Research from the University of California, San Diego, indicates that dogs might display behaviors reminiscent of jealousy when they perceive unequal treatment. Dogs, when observing their owners being affectionate toward what seemed like another pet (though it was a stuffed toy), exhibited nudges and pushes, more so than when the owner engaged with a non-social item. Yet, an alternative perspective suggests that what we label as "jealousy" in dogs might be closer to "resource guarding." Dogs, having evolved as pack animals, naturally protect scarce resources. This protective behaviour over toys, food, or even their human, could stem from a primal instinct to guard essential resources rather than from an emotional response akin to human jealousy. Humans often anthropomorphise animal behaviours, and while it might feel right to label a dog's desire for attention as "jealousy," it could just be a straightforward request for affection or the act of guarding a "resource." The dynamics between cerebral human emotions and the possibly instinctual responses of dogs is fascinating. As our discussion ranged from cultural interpretations to light-hearted anecdotes and even the portrayal of jealousy in art, one clear takeaway emerged: understanding and appropriately addressing these emotions and behaviours, whether in humans or dogs, is essential for nurturing harmonious relationships. Further details looking for great dog trainers and supporters of the canine paradigm? Below is a vast array of people and business’s who stand by us, donate to our running costs and do great things for the canine community. Glenn runs and has almost everything canine related at, Canine Evolution or Pet Resorts Australia Pat has a full range of coaching and dog training services at Operant Canine You can support our show and get extra content right here on our Patreon page. Everything goes into keeping the show running and we love all the wonderful people who are part of that community. If you’re not sure how, just ask us. You can get our full range of our Merch at our Teespring store here You can help us by spreading the word amongst the canine community or even suggesting a special guest to interview. If you need to find out how to listen to our podcast, go here We have a YOUTUBE channel that you can subscribe to now If you enjoyed the podcast, please review us on Itunes, spotify and any other podcast directory Details on joining the IACP can be found here. If you’re not in it you should be! Understand? Check out Dogs Playing for Life! A rescue process changing dogs lives across the USA For more details on how to help our friends at Peggy’s Promise, you can find all the details on how to do that on their website. They are our rescue charity of choice. Support our supporters Narelle Cooke’s raw feeding guide for dogs here. Narelle has her own podcast on all podcast directories called Natural Health for people and pets. Check it out in person. Looking for the best, human grade supplement range for your dogs? Check out Canine Ceuticals. You can also see her on Pooches at play with Lara Shannon SHOW SPONSOR Jason Firmin Einzweck Dog quip SHOW SPONSOR The motorcycle dog kennel by Rowdy Hound SHOW SPONSOR