Does chasing tails may be due to obsessive-compulsive disorder

The thoughts in a puppy’s brain are very difficult for humans to define. However, man’s best friend sometimes also exhibits obsessive-compulsive behaviors, such as chasing their tails. , swatting at non-existent flies in the air, pacing, biting or licking their sides. The researchers wanted to characterize tail-chasing behavior in dogs, identify possible environmental factors, and test whether there are specific genetic regions associated with tail-chasing behavior in dogs. The researchers found that the CDH2 gene mentioned in this question is not directly related to tail-chasing behavior in dogs. This is inconsistent with previous findings. However, tailgating appears to be genetically determined, with the environment playing a major role. Researchers have classified a series of characteristics of dog tail-chasing behavior that are similar to those of human obsessive-compulsive disorder. For example, both developed obsessive-compulsive behaviors at a relatively young age, and both are highly likely to develop multiple obsessive-compulsive behaviors.

It is beneficial for dogs to chase their tails

Analysis shows that dogs who receive nutritional supplements, especially vitamins and minerals, have less tail-chasing behavior than other dogs who do not receive nutritional supplements. "Interestingly, other studies have also shown that vitamins and minerals may be beneficial in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in humans." Other studies have also linked childhood trauma and stress to the development of OCD, the survey said. It was shown that dogs with tail-chasing behavior were separated from their mothers at a younger age than other mentally healthy dogs.

Dogs chasing their tail or behaviorally

Dogs that chase their tail are relatively shy and less aggressive towards humans. Certain forms of human obsessive-compulsive disorder are also associated with inhibitory personality traits. Researchers concluded that by studying the tail-chasing behavior of dogs, they can better understand obsessive-compulsive behavior in humans.

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