Can Dogs Have Obsessive Compulsive Behavior?

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) manifests as repeated actions or thoughts, feelings, or sensations that makes one feel driven to doing something. It is a common behavior among humans and also among canines. Some dog breeds are more susceptible to developing this behavior. OCD can manifest in either one or two things that a dog will do over and over again, without changing the way they do it.

Some common canine behaviors that can be associated with OCD are dogs attacking objects, barking, pacing or running back and forth, non-stop licking, chewing, or biting themselves or objects, going around in circles, chasing their own tail, chasing shadows, or excessive digging. Do not mix up the OCD actions for just regular actions or habits. Symptoms of OCD are usually exaggerated behavior.

There are various reasons why dogs can develop OCD behavior:

• Stress – when a dog is anxious, it can start to show OCD behavior. Some root causes of stress can be related to the lack of social interaction with family members or with the dog owner, environmental changes, the addition of a new family member, separation anxiety, and loud noises such as fireworks.
• The need for more mental and physical stimulation – one of the reasons why dogs develop OCD is boredom. It can also depend on the breed’s temperament. Some may need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation for them to release pent-up energy. If these dogs are not given enough stimulation, they tend to develop obsessive behaviors. Schedule regular exercises such as daily walks and playtime, and provide them with toys that can mentally stimulate them.
• Neurological problems – it is not common but is often hereditary and manifests at a young age. A brain tumor can also cause OCD in dogs.
• Cognitive dysfunction syndrome in senior dogs – as dogs get older, like humans, they start to lose their mental capabilities. This is similar to Alzheimer’s and is how they process information in their brains. OCD is one of the symptoms of cognitive dysfunction syndrome.
• Allergies – if your dogs incur allergies due to dust mites, pollen, reactions to food, or insect bites, they may have irritated skin or hot spots which can be very itchy. They can start to reach for the areas bothering them and lick these spots, rub their muzzles on the grass, or lick their paws incessantly. Identify any irritated areas and ask your vet for advice on how best to treat them.

How to Address Your Dog’s OCD
If you notice any OCD behavior in your dog, determine the reason for it and ask for advice from the vet. Your vet may recommend a program or refer you to a dog behaviorist. Also, you can try some products that target OCD behavior such as the Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) collar and other DAP products.