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Canine Compulsive Disorders |
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What is Canine Compulsive Disorder?
Does your dog chase his/her tail for a long time?
Does your dog snap at the air as if to catch a fly?
Does your dog lick him/herself excessively?
Canine Compulsive Disorder
(CD) is an anxiety disorder that affects about 2% of dogs. Dogs
with the disease often display compulsive behaviours that are performed
out of context, is often exaggerated, directed toward unnatural stimuli
or objects, and
is often constantly repeated. Examples of such behaviours include
but are not limited to: circling, tail chasing, air snapping, excessive
self-licking, flank-sucking, hind-end checking, staring into space,
freezing in one spot, excessive licking of some objects, chewing with
an empty mouth and barking monotonously without any change in volume or
intonation, or pacing. Does your dog snap at the air as if to catch a fly?
Does your dog lick him/herself excessively?
There are two factors that seem to be necessary for the development of compulsive behaviours in dogs.
1. Genetic predisposition
Some dogs appear to be prone to psychogenic self-mutilation. Dobermans, Great Danes, Labrador retrievers, Irish setters and German shepherds are susceptible to acral lick dermatitis. Flank sucking is almost exclusively a Doberman condition. Tail chasing affects primarily bull terriers and German shepherds.
2. Environmental stress that will trigger the expression of the behaviour.
Reducing stress or finding methods of decreasing the sources of arousal and conflict are the first aspect of treatment that should be explored. The environment should be closely examined to ensure that the pet has sufficient stimulation, particularly when the owners are frequently absent or otherwise occupied. This must include sufficient exercise, play, and social attention, as well as appropriate toys. Obedience training may be helpful and the owner should be cautioned that inappropriate punishment could actually intensify the problem rather than correct it. When the behaviour is exhibited in the owners presence, inattention can be given by turning or walking away, or you could use some form of remote indirect punishment device, to ensure that there is no positive consequence for the behaviour. These devices (ultrasonics, water gun, siren,) or leash and halter may also allow the owner to successfully interrupt the behavior so that normal alternative behaviours can resume.
Drug therapy along with physical prevention in some cases, may prove helpful. Since lowered serotonin and increased dopamine levels may be associated with some compulsive disorders, drugs that bring about a normalization of one or both of these neurotransmitters (e.g. clomipramine, fluoxetine) may be effective in the treatment of these disorders. A short course of therapy with anti-anxiety drugs may also be useful when the pet must be exposed to a potentially stressful or anxiety producing situation (new home, dramatic change in schedule, new baby). Antihistamines may also be useful to decrease anxiety and reduce itchiness in some self mutilation disorders.
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The above information is simply informational. It's intent is not to replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist you in making a diagnosis of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian for confirmation of any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.