The Green-Eyed Monster Named Jealousy

One day you bring home another furry bundle of joy. The problem is, the dog currently in residence - the one you adore, who always came to you for pats and snuggles - suddenly decides he wants nothing to do with either you or the new family member. What to do?

The Adjustment Period

Pets can display jealousy too, and to help smooth the transition to a more-than-one-pet household, try to:

Continue to lavish attention on your "first" pets. It's so easy to get caught up with the newcomer ... but your other pets may be feeling a bit put out. Spend plenty of time with them reassuring them that they're still a special part of the family.

Take things slowly; don't force your pets together. Introduce them in controlled situations, and give them time to adjust at their own pace. Allow them to gain confidence and decide when they'd like to face their new housemates.

Feed them away from each other. Use separate food and water bowls, and keep them physically separated when eating. Do not tolerate aggressive behavior.

Always supervise your pets until you are sure they get along. For the first couple of months, we left one of the dogs in the kennel and the other free whenever we had to go out. Some pets will adjust quickly; others may take weeks or even months before they're fully adjusted.

Jealous pets can be a nuisance. They often won't let anyone, people or other pets, get near you. They won't let you and your significant other get close, no hugs or pecks on the cheek. They may whine, bark or growl if someone gets near you.

Jealous pets can become less jealous with some behavioral conditioning and positive reinforcement. First, make sure that your pet has a space of his own, a crate or his own bed. Teach him to feel comfortable and safe in that place and to go there on command. If he's being jealous and making a nuisance of himself, give him the command to go to his bed or crate.

Have your significant other, or whoever else your pet is jealous of, spend time with your pet alone. This should be one-on-one time when you're not around and can include a walk, some playtime, or a good brushing. Also, have that person take over your pet's daily feeding. With time, your pet should learn to spread his love and loyalty a bit more evenly.