Signs of Canine Mental Illness

When dogs exhibit behavior "...in a way that is excessive, out of context, and diminishes the dog's social or physical well-being, a mood disorder is likely present," explains Dr. Soraya Juarbe-Diaz, a Florida-based veterinarian and certified dog behaviorist. Most canines begin to show signs of mood disorders, or mental illness, between the ages of 1 and 3. The exact cause of mental illness in dogs is unknown; however, Juarbe-Diaz believes that canines suffering from mental illness are genetically predisposed to their condition.

  1. Compulsive Behavior

    • A canine suffering from compulsive behavior might exhibit its plight by incessantly biting, chewing or licking itself--especially its flanks; constantly chasing its tail or chasing shadows; pacing; snapping at flies all the time and self-mutilation. Compulsive behavior is generally the result of the dog reacting to a stressful situation. In severe cases, however, the behavior is unstoppable; antidepressants and special training sometimes help control the dog's compulsions.

    Decreased Activity/Appetite

    • A dog exhibiting a significant decrease in its activity level or appetite might be depressed. In severe cases, the canine may socially isolate itself. Fortunately for dogs, depression is usually only a temporary mental condition and generally results from the loss of a beloved owner or canine companion. Medication and behavioral therapy may aid in relieving a depressed dog's symptoms if they become severe or permanent.

    Destructive Behavior

    • Destruction covers a broad range of behaviors, including the compulsive behaviors listed above. Canines exhibiting destructive behavior, such as clawing or tearing at things, chewing, destroying their own beds or other household furniture, or self-mutilation are most likely suffering from anxiety, according to Doctors Foster and Smith Pet Education website. Separation anxiety and fear of thunder or other loud noises are especially likely to cause a dog to destroy its surroundings or take its fear out on itself. Boredom and compulsion are two other conditions that lead to destructive behavior.

    Drooling

    • Another sign of separation anxiety is drooling. While drooling is primarily linked to physical illness, when a canine becomes fearful or anxious, it may begin to drool as well. If a dog is just fearful when it's in unfamiliar surroundings or see/hears fireworks, for example, mental illness is not an issue. If it drools constantly, urinates or defecates throughout the house and barks continually, it's probably suffering from separation anxiety; therapy and anti-anxiety medications such as clomipramine or fluoxetine might be prescribed by the veterinarian to control the anxious behavior.

    Hyperactivity

    • All dogs can be hyper, particularly when they're puppies and feeling their oats. When hyperactive behavior becomes frenetic, however, the canine might be suffering from the dog equivalent of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or hyperkinesis. An affected canine will often run around non-stop until it is exhausted and collapses. Hyperkinetic dogs also suffer from an elevated heart rate and rapid breathing.