15 Most Jealous Dog Breeds

Some dogs are laid-back. Others act like your emotional bodyguard. Jealousy in dogs often shows up as clinginess, attention-seeking, barking, or pushing between you and someone else. These 15 breeds are loyal to the core — and sometimes a little too emotionally invested in your every move.

Chihuahua

Tiny but feisty, Chihuahuas tend to bond with one person and treat them like their personal property. If someone else gets your attention — a partner, guest, or even another pet — expect jealous behavior like barking, glaring, or shoving their way onto your lap. They don’t just want your love; they want all of it all the time. Their loyalty is intense, but their jealousy can be even more so.

Dachshund

Dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers, and they’ve kept that fierce determination — especially when it comes to you. These little hounds are clingy, devoted, and not shy about expressing displeasure if you’re giving too much attention to someone else. They’ll whine, burrow in your arms, or even block other pets. They’re charming companions, but theydon’t love to share the spotlight.

Border Collie

Border Collies are incredibly intelligent and highly sensitive to emotional shifts. They monitor your every move and can get jealous if they feel excluded or replaced. Their jealousy isn’t loud — it’s strategic. They’ll insert themselves quietly, sit between you and others, or act “off” if they sense your bond shifting. It’s not aggression — it’s emotional depth that runs very, very deep.

French Bulldog

Frenchies adore being part of the action — preferably center stage. They’re known to follow you everywhere, and when someone else gets too much of your attention, they may grumble, pout, or physically wedge themselves in. They thrive on cuddles and may get possessive, especially if another pet tries to claim “their” person.

Labrador Retriever

Labs are famously friendly, but don’t mistake that for indifference. These dogs thrive on attention and affection, and they notice when they’re not getting it. They won’t snap or snarl — but they will nudge, whine, or lovingly interrupt your bonding moments with others. Their jealousy is soft, but definitely present.

Golden Retriever

Goldens are gentle, but emotionally needy in the best way. They’re natural companions who want to be where the love is — and if they’re not included, they’ll let you know. Expect the “sad eyes,” strategic paw placement, or full-body leaning if you dare to cuddle someone else without them.

Pomeranian

Bold, sassy, and bursting with confidence, Pomeranians demand your full attention. They’re not afraid to bark, jump into your lap, or insert themselves into conversations if they feel left out. This breed has a big personality packed into a tiny body — and they expect their place at the emotional center of your world.

Australian Shepherd

Aussies are deeply bonded, observant, and emotionally intuitive. They quickly pick up on changes in your attention and can become jealous if they feel replaced. You may notice pacing, nudging, or even herding behavior as they try to “correct” your focus. They love to be involved — and hate feeling excluded.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies are fiercely loyal and surprisingly possessive for their size. They often latch onto one person and treat them as their personal human. If another dog (or person) comes too close, they’ll bark, grumble, or wedge their tiny body into the mix. It’s not hostility — it’s just intense devotion.

Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are gentle, affectionate, and emotionally tuned-in. They love being close and may struggle with feelings of jealousy when they see others getting your affection. Expect clinginess, mopey stares, or subtle interruptions if you’re not giving them their usual share of attention. They’re sweet — but they definitely notice.

Shih Tzu

These little lap dogs were bred to be royal companions — and they still expect to be treated that way. Shih Tzus dislike sharing their favorite person and may get snippy, barky, or pouty if they’re left out. They want your affection on demand, and they’re not shy about asking for it.

Miniature Schnauzer

Mini Schnauzers are bold, clever, and love being part of everything. If they see you giving attention elsewhere, expect them to barge in — with a toy, a bark, or a nudge. They’re alert and expressive, and they’ll do whatever it takes to pull focus back onto themselves.

Italian Greyhound

Sensitive and elegant, Italian Greyhounds are quiet, loyal shadows. They won’t bark for your attention, but they’ll sulk or act anxious if they feel ignored. Expect dramatic stares, slow tail wags, or gentle creeping into your arms when your focus shifts. Their jealousy is subtle — but unmistakable.

Pekingese

Pekingese were bred for Chinese royalty, and they’ve never forgotten it. These little dogs are proud, aloof, and surprisingly jealous. If they see your attention diverted, they may withdraw or act huffy — often refusing to engage until they’ve “forgiven” you. They love hard — and expect you to reciprocate loyally.

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are deeply loyal, protective, and sensitive to emotional shifts. They can become jealous if someone threatens their close bond with you. It might not be dramatic, but it’s deliberate — blocking movement, standing between you and others, or giving quiet, watchful stares. They don’t share affection lightly — or easily.