Obsessive Compulsive
Disorder (OCD) in Dogs
I am the Original Holistic Pet Health Coach, and am now training passionate pet parents, and pet professionals to be Certified Holistic Pet Health Coaches so that more pets can be helped holistically.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in dogs, also known as canine-compulsive disorder (CCD), can be a distressing condition characterized by repetitive and excessive behaviors that impede the dog’s ability to function normally in daily life. To support their well-being, it’s essential to approach their care with a focus on holistic pet health. Embracing a holistic approach means considering their physical, mental, and emotional needs, seeking natural solutions, and creating an environment that promotes balance and tranquility. Through holistic pet health practices, we can strive to alleviate their symptoms, reduce stress, and enhance their overall quality of life, ensuring a happier and healthier canine companion.
Common (excessive) things we can look out for are:
- Excessive licking
- Pacing
- Spinning
- Chasing the tail
- Freezing and staring
- Snapping at flies or invisible objects
- Unabated and patterned barking
- Excessive drinking of water, and
- Eating dirt
Canine OCD can be challenging to diagnose
When you suspect canine OCD, you must monitor your dog regularly and consult a vet or veterinary behaviorist because they have the specialized training and experience to diagnose precisely.
What causes OCD in dogs?
The Genetic Component
The genetic connection is one of the topics being researched in the ongoing study of the reasons for obsessive behaviors in dogs.
Although any breed may acquire a compulsive disorder, certain species appear more prone to particular obsessive behaviors, according to Dr. Jerry Klein, the chief veterinary officer of the AKC. Breeds like German Shepherd Dogs and Bull Terriers are well-known for their ability to spin or chase their tails, while Doberman Pinschers have a genetic marker for the behavior known as flank sucking.
Pain
Living with dogs diagnosed with OCD can indeed present challenges, as their behaviors can be destructive to your home and impact your relationships. However, by embracing holistic pet care, we can address the root causes of their stress and anxiety, promoting a more balanced and harmonious living environment. Taking a holistic approach involves considering their physical, emotional, and mental well-being, seeking natural remedies, and providing enriching activities to reduce stress levels. With patience, understanding, and a holistic perspective, we can work towards helping our beloved dogs find peace and happiness, benefiting both them and the entire household.
Environmental Stressors
Dogs can develop canine OCD for various reasons, such as domestic disputes or an unpredictable or stressful routine. Like us, dogs like stability; they look forward to their upcoming meals, walks, and playtime. Your dog may exhibit anxious and compulsive behaviors if something breaks this constancy.
It can be challenging to live with compulsive behaviors since they can be detrimental to your dog, your house, and your relationships. Additionally, they only worsen if left untreated.
Supplements that contain serotonin can help lessen some behaviors
The good news is new alternative treatments are developing as we understand more about canine OCD! A well-rounded regimen that includes appropriate exercise, socialization, and alone time is essential for your dog’s proper stimulation.
Calm Shen: Calming
Clarity - Mushrooms For Dogs
Calmer Canine Anxiety Treatment System: Device Only
Adrenal Desiccated
Drenamin®
Liquid Nutricalm
How The Original Crockpet Diet changed Murphy and Bettina Nowicki's Life
His ECG returned normal, and he no longer has an irregular heartbeat.
Thank you so much, Dr. Ruth, for all your help and knowledge. Our new local vet is on board with us and is always excited to hear what we do to help our dogs. Since we started the crock pet diet last October, our dogs did not have any ear infections, allergies, or hot spots. We use Dr. Ruth's holistic total body support, the fish oil, and her probiotic; our dogs love their food.
I took him off all meds and chemicals and started to titer test. Then we found a holistic vet, Dr. Lisa, who recommended Dr. Ruth's Crockpet Diet. She helped us with herbs to detox Murphy, and he was getting better.
When we adopted Murphy, he was diagnosed with OCD, we put him on a grain free-diet then switched to duck and potato low protein. Two months later, the vet found an irregular heartbeat and referred us to UW Madison. He had a complete check-up & our local trainer recommended a raw diet for him and helped us with his gut health. We did FMT Caps, Fur analysis, microbiome, and added probiotics.
