Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Dogs

Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD) in dog’s, also known as Canine Compulsive Disorder, is when a typically normal behaviour becomes excessive, extreme or repetitive. The dog is compelled to excessively repeat a behaviour through an irresistible urge. The behaviour continues although there is seemingly no positive benefit or outcome. These behaviours can interfere with the dog’s ability to function normally. It can be very distressing for the dog and for humans to witness. 

Common obsessive compulsive behaviours seen in dog’s include; 

• Spinning or tail chasing 
• Air snapping 
• Fly chasing 
• Light or shadow chasing 
• Sucking, licking or chewing on a body part or object
• Self mutilation or excessive grooming 
• Pacing 
• Barking in a rhythmic or incessant way seemingly for no reason 

Many obsessive behaviours start from a normal or natural behaviour or response and can develop to an excessive behaviour due to a few reasons including;

• Boredom
• Lack of physical and/or mental stimulation
• Anxiety or stress
• Lack of attention or attention seeking 
• Fear
• Medical conditions including pain, neurological conditions or dermatological conditions
• A genetic predisposition to certain behaviours (or example, German Shepherds are more likely to tail spin)

It is important to address any obsessive compulsive behaviours early as they affect the dog’s quality of life. The longer the behaviour continues for the harder it can be to rectify. The first step if a dog is exhibiting compulsive behaviour or any unusual behaviour is to visit your vet. A veterinarian needs to perform a thorough examination and possibly run some tests just to rule out if there is a medical reason for the behaviour. 

OCD in dog’s can be difficult to treat if the trigger for the behaviour remains unknown. If the trigger for the behaviour is identified and removed this could rectify or at least help reduce the behaviour. Other things that can help reduce and stop OCD behaviours include;

• Redirecting them to another activity when the trigger is present or when the behaviour starts.
• Increasing mental stimulation. Slow feeders and puzzle toys are a great option for this. 
• Increasing exercise
• Reducing stress
• Not paying them attention, even negative attention, when performing the behaviour.
• Medication. Research studies have shown that dog’s that display OCD behaviours have altered serotonin levels. There are some medications that can be prescribed to help with the absorption of serotonin. 

If your dog is suffering from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder contacting an Animal Behaviourist may help you understand the behaviour and help in finding a way to manage and fix the problem.

For more information to help with a dog that chases their tail visit our article “Why do dogs chase their tails?” by Anne Hardacre from Pawsitive Connection.