Study confirms dogs feel jealousy similar to humans

Your dog pushes you away when you hug someone? Growls when you pet another animal? These are more than quirks — they might be signs of true jealousy. For years, scientists thought jealousy was too complex for dogs. But recent studies show that dogs not only recognize social bonds — they can feel left out and react emotionally. This shifts how we understand pet behavior. What looks like “acting out” may actually be your dog expressing an emotional need for reassurance.