I’ve had my dachshund for 9 years, and she’s been an amazing dog and my best friend all that time. She’s super smart and hasn’t had any issues with peeing in the house for years—until now. I had my first baby about 3 months ago, and my dog has started peeing in the baby’s nursery. Yes, she’s getting less attention now, and she’s no longer the center of affection. She’s fine with the baby, mostly ignoring him, but when she does come near, it’s usually to try and get the attention the baby is getting.
Is she jealous? Could she be peeing in the nursery out of spite? Is that even possible for a dog?
More importantly, how do I make this stop? How can I discipline an older dog who should know better?
Indeed, dogs are prone to jealousy. Two dogs will pick up on certain cues, such as who gets more attention from you, who you spend more time and energy with, and who gets treats first or in greater quantities. Pets are tiny princesses. Even though she’s older, she doesn’t know any different; the life you all had prior to the baby is the only one she knows she likes.
Even if my dog is content to munch on her bone, she will come over and attach herself to me like glue if she sees me petting one of the cats. The same thing is done by cats. I feel like I’m caressing animals all the time.
New babies can be stressful for dogs. The peeing in the nursery is likely a result of stress rather than jealousy. However, when your dog tries to interrupt the attention the baby is getting, that could be a sign of jealousy. While dogs may not experience jealousy the same way humans do, research shows they do feel it on a basic level, often as a form of resource guarding.
To help with this, focus on creating positive associations between your dog and the baby. Also, try to limit her access to the nursery; the more she pees in there, the more the behavior gets reinforced. If you catch her in the act, avoid punishing her—this will only teach her that peeing in front of you is unsafe.