Types Of Mental Disorders in Dogs
Humans can suffer from a mental disorder if they experience a set of specific symptoms, usually related to mood, thoughts, and behavior. A mental disorder is diagnosed when these symptoms last for a period of time, such as at least six months, and you notice an impact on social functioning or occupational performance (social, educational, or work-related).
Quite similarly, there are many types of mental disorders that can be present in the canine world. While experts disagree on whether or not dogs experience depression the same way humans do, the condition can affect them and is usually manifested by extreme sadness, withdrawal, or listlessness. Anxiety, excessive worry, or even OCD, where dogs feel compelled to do things repeatedly because it gives them relief from said anxiety, can all be part of your dog’s life.
Let’s take a look at a few more mental disorders that may affect our furry friends:
Separation Anxiety Disorder
Probably the most known and understood mental ailment many dogs struggle with – separation anxiety disorder. This disorder is characterized by panic and distress when the dog’s owner leaves home for any period of time (even if it’s just for five minutes). The symptoms worsen as the length of separation increases and may include destructive behavior like chewing on furniture or urinating inside the house. It is also important to note that these symptoms may arise if the pet parent’s routine has changed, such as working from home rather than in an office.
Dogs are social creatures, and even the species’ wild representatives organize themselves into groups or packs. Isolation is undoubtedly the culprit behind dogs’ anxiety as they seek attachment and connection in order to build their confidence. Certain dog breeds, such as terriers or pinchers, are especially prone to separation anxiety, such as terriers or pinchers.
3 Common Dog Mental Health Issues
Dogs can show symptoms of anxiety and depression, which can go hand in hand. They can also develop compulsive behaviors when they’re struggling with these mental health issues.
Like many of us, dogs are creatures of habit, and they can become anxious when their routines are disrupted. They can also suffer from separation anxiety or feel anxious after a traumatic experience, such as getting injured in a fight with another dog. Symptoms of anxiety in dogs can include:
Anxious dogs can also appear restless and have a hard time settling down. Additionally, you may notice changes in their eating or drinking habits.
Your dog’s body language can tell you a lot about how they’re feeling. Find out how to figure out what your dog is trying to say.
Can dogs get depressed? That’s a good question that doesn’t have a simple answer. We can’t really know what goes on in their minds to equate it with human depression. However, we do know they can experience deep sadness and show signs of depression similar to people such as:
Depression in dogs is usually temporary and often comes in response to a major life change, such as moving to a new home. It will often resolve itself as the dog acclimates to their situation.
Dogs aren’t diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) like humans. We don’t know if they have obsessive thoughts, which is a hallmark of this illness for humans. However, anxiety, fear, boredom, frustration, and other negative emotions can lead to compulsive behaviors.
These behaviors are exaggerations of normal dog activities, which are done for longer periods of time and repeated in situations where they wouldn’t be expected. For instance, you wouldn’t bat an eye if your dog was licking their paw after it was hurt, but constantly licking an uninjured paw may indicate a compulsive behavior. Behaviors that can become compulsive include:
Compulsive behaviors can start out as a way for dogs to soothe themselves. They become problematic when dogs ritualize the behavior. For example, a dog might suck on a favorite toy when they’re afraid during a storm. Because this made them feel better, they may begin to search out the toy and repeat the behavior anytime they are scared or anxious.
Some obsessive behaviors can be harmful to dogs. Dogs who lick their sides constantly can cause painful injuries or skin infections. Sucking on objects can result in choking or swallowing small pieces, which can obstruct the intestines. Dogs have also been known to chase and attack their tails, damaging them so badly that amputation is needed.
Dogs with mental health issues can also exhibit behavior problems, such as aggression, excessive barking, or destructive chewing. These unwanted behaviors can be disruptive and even dangerous. They may require help from your veterinarian or a certified expert in dog behavior or training.
Dog mental health issues are often in reaction to a life change. Some dogs can be quite sensitive, and they may experience depression or anxiety over what seem to us like little things, such as a new leash or dog carrier. More significant events that can affect our dog’s mental health include:
In addition, dogs may show signs of mental health issues after something traumatic happens, like getting hit by a car or experiencing a disaster, like a hurricane or house fire. It’s also important to keep in mind that symptoms of depression and anxiety can be signs of illnesses, which need to be diagnosed and treated by a veterinarian.
Get tips on creating a disaster plan that includes your dog, so you’ll be ready in an emergency situation.
Dog Video Could Your Dog Have a Mental Illness?
As the years go on, there is more understanding of the mental handicaps and mental illnesses that humans can face.
Though we all know that people can be mentally challenged in a variety of ways, many wonder if their canine companions can as well.
In this article we will discuss the mental disorders that are commonly seen in our canine friends, and help you better understand what this means for their life going forward.
Dogs can be mentally challenged in their own ways, though most of their complications are related to mental disorders and behavioral struggles.
The brain is an organ just like any other, making it just as prone to developmental complications and illnesses.
Our dogs may not be at risk of the same mental challenges that humans are, but they certainly can have canine versions.