OCD

I recently wrote about Body Language (See “What took you so long“) and it has been pointed out to me by a veterinary surgeon friend that it would be helpful to clarify the difference between OCD and kinesics so as assist owners to interpret behaviour patterns correctly.

We have already established that kinesics is the art of body language which assists us to recognise if our pets are in difficulties regarding health both physically and emotionally, however, we also need to be aware of the presence of OCD, also known as CCD. (canine compulsive disorder)

First, we need to establish if this condition even exists as there are some who refuse to accept that it does. Unfortunately, the answer to that is well outside my level of expertise, however, having had to deal with some of these in my career and in the absence of any other explanation I believe that OCD exists in dogs.

Currently, there is still extensive research being done on this subject and preliminary data indicates that genetics play a part. Another area being examined is that there is evidence that in some dogs it is the result of boredom. It is prevalent in working breeds and again it is thought that it is the result of a lack of both physical and mental stimulation and the lack of a clear role in life. If the genetics theory is correct then another cause is that it is hereditary and it is already in certain breeds.

What is OCD?

OCD occurs when your pet becomes so obsessive that they continuously repeat the same action to the point where they are unable to behave like a normal family pet and create an environment where owners are driven to the point of distraction This may take the form of tail-chasing, staring, snapping at invisible objects, continual barking, excessive drinking, spinning, chewing their flank and sucking on a toy. Other symptoms are strange reactions to familiar people, aggression and a disdain for being touched. In fact, the list is almost endless. This is why good pet owners are aware of their pets normal behaviour patterns so any change is instantly recognised.

Now I know what you are going to say, yes my dog does one or more of those things, however, your dog will probably do these things for a period of time and move on to other activities.

The first thing on the agenda is NOT to ignore this problem, it will only get worse.

Having identified the problem the burning question is what to do.

Do we consult the veterinary surgeon or contact the behaviourist?

In my opinion, the safest bet is to first seek advice from a vet. The reason. There is also evidence that this form of behaviour can be the result of a medical condition and medication may be appropriate. It will assist the vet if you can show this behaviour on your phone.

Unfortunately, it can rarely be dealt with by medication alone and the assistance of an experienced behaviourist might be necessary to help you understand how to distract your dog when the obsessive behaviour starts.

Distraction is the key.

How do we recognise that we are dealing with OCD?

An example is a human with OCD who finds it necessary to repeatedly wash hands and compare this with a dog who chews its paw. In the case of the dog, the obsession goes way beyond relieving stress to the point where the paw becomes bloodied as an open wound appears.

Put it another way, if the dog is stressed as the result of a thunderstorm or a visit to the vet the dog may for example express its concerns by nibbling its paws but will stop fairly soon after the problem has passed. This is kinesics.  But in the case of OCD, the dog will continue biting its paws to the point of self-harm.

In simple terms, the reaction to stress will disappear when the cause of the stress disappears, but if a dog has OCD then the behaviour will continue until the condition is recognised, treated and distraction techniques are applied.

Please don’t fall into the trap of thinking that lots of exercise will sort out bad behaviour or deal with OCD.

In my view any dog with severe behaviour issues should be viewed in the same way as a child with learning difficulties, the introduction of a regular routine is generally beneficial and the need to provide mental stimulation is critical.

This doesn’t just apply to dogs with OCD, it is a lesson for us all. Bear in mind that just exercising your dog won’t stimulate their brain. If you give more exercise than your dog needs it is self-defeating when what is required is the need to provide mental stimulation as well usually in the form of activity toys.

Please don’t assume a dog with OCD is misbehaving. To punish would be disastrous and will probably make the problem much worse.

Finally, for those who have a dog with OCD (CCD) a checklist.

1. Visit your veterinary surgeon to check that there are no health issues.
2. Check to see if your dog is included in the breeds where this condition prevails.
3. Exercise your dog according to its type, there are charts available on the internet.
4. Provide activity and puzzle toys for stimulation plus for use as distraction.
5. NEVER PUNISH.
6. Create hide and seek exercises at home to stimulate the brain.
7. Avoid using food by itself as the dog may associate this as a reward, food should only come with an activity or a toy.
8. A regular daily routine will be beneficial.
9. If necessary seek help from an experienced behaviourist.