Dogs, just like people, can suffer from OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder). Surprised? Well, it is more common than we think . If humans affected by these disorders can wash their hands countless times a day for fear of catching a virus or insistently check if they have left the tap open, the light on or the door locked, our furry can chasing their tail in an abnormal way, being anxious thinking only about going to the park so that we can throw the ball at them or sucking uncontrollably their favorite toy and their own skin. No, this is not normal and if you observe it in your pet you should take it to the vet for examination.
In the specific case of dogs that obsessively chase their tails, there are similarities with the behavior of people with OCD:
– Both begin to show these behaviors at an early age.
– They tend to carry out more than one compulsive activity.
– OCD in people is related to traumatic and stressful situations that occurred in childhood. In the case of furry dogs, it has been observed that dogs that have been separated too soon from their mothers are chased by their tails more frequently.
– Many humans with OCD are shy and have inhibited behaviors, the same happens with the canids that pursue their tail.
Does your dog get enough exercise?
We repeat that before any abnormal behavior of the pet, the first thing to do is go to the veterinary clinic. That said, there are certain tips that we can begin to carry out now with the approval of the expert.
Be honest, does your dog go outside enough to expend his energy and vent outside the home? It happens that although dogs have been designed to move much more than they do, today they are more sedentary than they should. Strolling with him longer, taking him for a run if you’re a runner , practicing agility and playing games, and offering him interactive toys can help with compulsive behaviors.
Do you want to continue delving into this interesting topic? Don’t miss the photo gallery we have prepared!
