Dogs Jealous?

I was just reading on http://blogs.dogster.com/vet_blog_information_advice/scientists-show-that-dogs-experience-jealousy/ that dogs experience jealousy...Again, I have to say to these researchers--I (and many other dog owners, i'm sure) could have told you so and save you money and time. Both of which you could have spent on research things like how to really CURE Separation Anxiety in dogs. Now, that is something that would really impress me. Yes, I know all about the different "treatments" like desensitization training techniques, meds, even crating, (none of which worked for me) but no cure.

Jealousy is just one of the many traits that Samson exhibits regularly with anyone or anything that takes my attention away from him for too long. Example: he would be playing happily with one of my brother's dogs but as soon as I bend down to pet his mother, he would dash over and with his head he would move my hand onto his head. If I get up he would go back to playing. Another example -- he would be lying contentedly on the floor and as soon as my friend sits next to me he suddenly wants that exact spot. At first I thought he was being protective, which he is, but he would do this even with my nephew, my sisters, anyone whom I show affection to by hugging them.

He would sometimes stand on his hind legs and I would hold his front paws and we would dance. Well, if I dance with anyone else, even my nephew, his favorite person besides me, he would try to come between us and if I tell him no, he would sit and whine (and I mean really whine and whimper). That is not protective behavior, it is jealousy.

But then again, who am I to say its jealousy and not another symptom of his madness (and I do mean madness in a loving way). After all, I'm no researcher.