Dogs Tails OCD Study - Are dogs who chase their tails mentally ill? Dogs who chase their tails exhibit symptoms associated with a human mental disorder, according to a new study Factors such as genetics, an early separation from their mothers and poor diet may play a role. Some breeds are affected more than others, and experts say vitamins seem to help, but additional research is needed.
The researchers said that tail-chasing in dogs could be used as a model for studying the genetic background of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) in humans. Tail chasing may also be influenced by environmental factors such as diet and a mother’s care, researchers from the University of Helsinki found. The study found that tail-chasing is associated with mental health issues, alongside behaviours such as being more timid and being afraid of loud noises.
OCD in humans is characterised by recurrent, persistent thoughts, and repetitive, ritualised behaviours, such as checking and rechecking locks. The footballer David Beckham has admitted to having OCD, which makes him to rearrange hotel rooms and line up cans of soft drinks to make “everything perfect”.
The Finnish researchers surveyed the owners of 368 dogs and collected DNA samples from 181 dogs from four breeds: bull terriers, miniature bull terriers, German shepherds and Staffordshire bull terriers. The owners filled out a questionnaire about their dogs’ stereotypical behaviour, and the dogs were given a range of nutritional supplements.
The researchers said that tail-chasing in dogs could be used as a model for studying the genetic background of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) in humans. Tail chasing may also be influenced by environmental factors such as diet and a mother’s care, researchers from the University of Helsinki found. The study found that tail-chasing is associated with mental health issues, alongside behaviours such as being more timid and being afraid of loud noises.
OCD in humans is characterised by recurrent, persistent thoughts, and repetitive, ritualised behaviours, such as checking and rechecking locks. The footballer David Beckham has admitted to having OCD, which makes him to rearrange hotel rooms and line up cans of soft drinks to make “everything perfect”.
The Finnish researchers surveyed the owners of 368 dogs and collected DNA samples from 181 dogs from four breeds: bull terriers, miniature bull terriers, German shepherds and Staffordshire bull terriers. The owners filled out a questionnaire about their dogs’ stereotypical behaviour, and the dogs were given a range of nutritional supplements.
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