HELSINKI, Finland (StudyFinds)— Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is not something that just affects people — it may be a problem among our pets too. A new study reveals dogs can also develop a behavioral condition that resembles ADHD in humans.
Studies show that 12–15% of dogs exhibit hyperactivity and impulsivity, and 20% exhibit inattention — and that those qualities are highly heritable but also influenced by environmental factors, just like they are in humans.
Methylphenidate, also known by the brand name Ritalin®, is used for the treatment of ADHD (hyperactivity) in dogs. Behavioral disorders in dogs and cats are a frequent reason for veterinary visits.
High energy. Distractible. Hyperactive (lots of fidgeting and movement) Unable to pay attention.
Can a Dog Have Autism? While some of these behaviors are unique to humans, researchers have found that, in fact, ASD can occur in dogs, but it's called canine dysfunctional behavior (CDB). Researchers believe that canine dysfunctional behavior is an idiopathic condition, meaning that the cause is unknown.
Take daily walks with your pup and/or play outside to get him physically active as often as possible. Mental stimulation can also keep your dog calm. Use puzzles, treat-release toys or outdoor activities that appeal to your dog's natural instincts. Try to give your dog a job.
Most puppies start to calm down as they approach their maturity age, which is usually around 12 months, but for larger breeds it can be more likely to occur between 18 months and 2 years.
Lack of Exercise
Highly active dogs need lots of exercise to be able to channel their energy and anxiety in a healthy way. It also paves the way to smooth training, good sleeping habits, and aids digestion. A lack of exercise on the other hand may lead to hyperactivity.
Your dog may be hyperactive for a number of reasons, including the characteristics of their breed and potential anxiety-related conditions. If your dog is highly energetic, make sure they first get all their physical exercise needs met. Keep in mind mental exercise can be just as important as physical exercise.
The History of Bipolar Disorder
To date, no such disorder has been identified for dogs despite the fact that dogs can sometimes display what appear to be sudden mood changes. However, as veterinary experts have observed this is usually a reaction rather than a biochemical imbalance that can lead to these extremes.
Any dog can suffer from mental health issues, but it is a common and heartbreaking problem for dogs who have been neglected, mistreated, or abused. Anxiety can also be more prevalent in smaller breeds, such as Chihuahuas, Shih-Tzu, and Jack Russell Terriers.
Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is a behavioral syndrome that affects old dogs. Dogs with CCD show behavioral alterations such as disorientation, altered interactions with owners, other pets and the environment, sleep-wake cycle disturbance, house-soiling and changes in activity [14].
Dogs with ADHD demonstrate exceptionally short attention spans and a high degree of impulsiveness that makes it impossible for them to focus on one task for long. They are easily distracted. In contrast, most of the high-energy dogs that clients bring to me will focus very quickly on the click-and-treat game.
With practice and consistency, it is 100% possible! The "place" behavior can be a wonderful replacement behavior for barking at the door, jumping on guests, or even nipping and biting!
The number-one naughtiest dog breed is the Japanese Spitz. Sure, it looks like they're smiling all the time, but they've got tricks up their sleeves. Bred from the German Spitz to be Japanese companion dogs in the 1920s, these pups consider themselves an extension of you.
The dog breeds that are more likely to have this problem are the German Shepherd, Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, Jack Russell Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bichon Frise, Toy Poodle, Labrador Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, and German Shorthaired Pointer.
All dogs, from basset hounds to Great Danes, get the zoomies. Puppies and young dogs may zip around more often simply because they have more energy to burn than older dogs. But pups in their golden years can still get zoomies too.
Over processed dog food contains preservatives, carbohydrates and sugar, and many are packed full of cheap fillers such as maize, all of which will not help with a hyper dog. Several foods will help your dog to calm down; these include whole brown rice, blueberries, sweet potato and turkey.
In a distraction-free environment ask her to lie down and then gently stroke her and see if she responds by lying on her side. When she does so, say the word relax. When you have repeated this exercise a number of times over a few days ask her to lie down and then say the word relax.