Definition of Canine OCD
Obsessive compulsive disorder (“OCD”) is a recognized and potentially dangerous medical condition in which a dog engages in normal canine activities in an abnormally repetitive and frantic manner – sometimes to the point of self-mutilation.
How Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Affects Dogs
The repetitive actions that dogs with engage in are otherwise normal, albeit annoying, canine activities such as barking, digging, licking, scratching, circling, pacing, fence-running, tail-chasing, flank-sucking and chewing on rocks, fabric, furniture, paws or toe nails. These activities become problematic when the dog engages in them destructively, purposelessly and ritualistically, beyond any amount appropriate for normal function. Constant licking and chewing can cause painful open sores that are predisposed to developing secondary bacterial infections. Dogs with OCD can have other behavioral or psychological problems as well. They may startle easily, shy away from physical contact, have difficulty socializing with people and other animals or develop severe separation anxiety, which is a different disorder. In most cases, the dog seems unaware that its behavior is out of the ordinary.
Causes of Canine OCD
Dogs that suffer from this disease often (but not always) have a history of abuse, neglect or past exposure to other anxiety-producing situations. There is a strong genetic link to this disorder.
Preventing OCD in Dogs
Given the hereditary component to OCD, affected animals probably should not be bred. Moreover, because stressful situations exacerbate OCD, owners should be especially conscious of the impact of such situations on their animals. For example, moves, trips to the veterinarian, introduction of a new human or animal family member or other anxiety-causing events should be carefully managed to minimize their impact on dogs with OCD.
Special Notes
Diagnosing obsessive-compulsive disorder involves ruling out other conditions that could contribute to the observed behaviors. Treatment options include behavior and environmental modification and prescription medication, which probably will be life-long. Punishment of OCD behaviors should never be used.