Medical Conditions That Can Affect Your Dog’s Behavior.

This article on medical conditions that can affect your dog’s behavior is not meant as medical advice, nor is this article intended to diagnose or treat any medical conditions. This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed veterinarian for any medical illness, disease, medication, or health questions.

Introduction.

Dogs are more than just pets; they are cherished members of our families. They bring us comfort, joy, and unconditional love, but sometimes their behavior can cause concern. In many cases, behavioral issues result from a medical condition or illness, ranging from simple issues such as allergies to more complex problems like neurological disorders. Understanding the connection between these medical issues and behavior can help pet owners identify and address any underlying problems and improve the quality of life for their dogs and themselves.

Dog Behavior Due to Allergies.

Allergies are a common cause of behavioral problems in dogs. Various things, including food, environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, insect bites, and flea and tick medications, can cause them. These allergies can lead to a range of symptoms, including itching, biting, scratching, redness of the skin, and in some cases, gastrointestinal issues like vomiting and diarrhea. These symptoms can further impact a dog’s behavior, causing them to become more irritable and less sociable.

For example, a dog with a food allergy may start to display signs of restlessness, scratching, and licking at their skin after consuming certain foods. This behavior may be misinterpreted as simple itching, but pet owners must identify the underlying cause and address it through dietary changes and/or anti-inflammatory medications. Doing so can help pet owners improve their dogs’ quality of life and prevent further behavioral problems.

Dog Behavior Due to Thyroid Disease.

Thyroid disease is a common endocrine disorder in dogs and can cause a range of symptoms, including weight gain or loss, hair loss, and changes in appetite and energy levels. This condition can also impact a dog’s behavior, causing symptoms such as increased aggression, hyperactivity, and restlessness. In some cases, these changes in behavior can be mistaken for simple aging or a lack of exercise, but pet owners need to have their dogs tested for thyroid disease.

For example, a dog with hypothyroidism, a common form of thyroid disease, may display signs of lethargy, weight gain, and hair loss. This behavior change may lead to decreased social interaction and exercise, which can further impact the dog’s overall health and well-being. Thyroid disease can be treated through hormone replacement therapy, which involves supplementing the dog’s body with the hormone thyroxine. This treatment can help to restore normal thyroid function and improve the dog’s behavior and overall health.

Dog Behavior Due to Arthritis.

Arthritis is a common cause of pain and stiffness in dogs. It can cause various behavioral changes, including decreased activity levels, decreased interaction with people and other animals, and increased irritability. Various things, including aging, injury, and obesity, can cause this condition. Arthritis can lead to decreased mobility and decreased quality of life for affected dogs, making it essential for pet owners to address the problem early.

For example, an older dog with arthritis may display signs of decreased activity and reluctance to participate in activities they once enjoyed. This can lead to decreased social interaction, and increased aggression as the dog becomes more sensitive to touch and movement. Treatment for arthritis in dogs typically involves managing the pain associated with the condition, which may involve using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), glucosamine and chondroitin supplements, and/or physical therapy. Surgery may also be necessary in some cases to address the underlying cause of arthritis. By addressing the pain and stiffness caused by arthritis, pet owners can help improve their dog’s quality of life and reduce the likelihood of behavioral problems.

Other Medical Conditions That Can Affect Your Dog’s Behavior.

Dog Behavior Due to Neurochemical Imbalance.

Several studies have explored the role of neurochemicals such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in regulating mood, anxiety, aggression, fears, and phobias in dogs.

Serotonin is known to play a role in regulating anxiety and aggression in dogs. One study found that dogs’ low serotonin levels are associated with increased anxiety and aggression.

Dopamine has been linked to regulating mood, aggression, and fear responses in dogs. A study published in the journal “Psychopharmacology” found that changes in dopamine levels in dogs can affect their behavior, particularly aggression.

Norepinephrine, also known as noradrenaline, regulates anxiety and fear responses in dogs. A study found that changes in norepinephrine levels in dogs can impact their behavior, particularly regarding fear and anxiety.

Dog Behavior Due to Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome.

Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) is a condition that affects older dogs and can cause a range of symptoms, including changes in behavior, disorientation, and loss of memory. This condition is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans and can significantly impact a dog’s quality of life and the well-being of its pet owners. CDS can lead to changes in behavior, such as confusion, decreased social interaction, and increased irritability, making it essential for pet owners to be aware of this condition and seek treatment.

For example, a dog with CDS may start to display signs of disorientation and confusion, such as getting lost in familiar places or exhibiting increased fear and aggression. This can lead to decreased social interaction and increased isolation, further impacting the dog’s overall health and well-being. Treatment for CDS in dogs typically involves using supplements and medications to help improve brain function and slow the condition’s progression. In some cases, dietary changes and environmental modifications may also be necessary to manage the symptoms of CDS.

Dog Behavior Due to Brain Tumors.

Brain tumors are a severe medical condition that can affect the behavior of dogs. This can be due to the direct impact of the tumor on the brain or as a result of the associated symptoms such as seizures, headaches, and changes in consciousness. Brain tumors can lead to various behavioral changes, including changes in appetite, changes in sleep patterns, decreased activity levels, changes in personality, and severe cases, of aggression and seizures.

For example, a dog with a brain tumor may start to display signs of confusion, restlessness, and changes in their activity levels. This can lead to decreased social interaction and decreased activity levels, which can further impact the dog’s overall health and well-being. Treatment for brain tumors in dogs typically involves surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. In some cases, medication may also be necessary to manage the condition’s symptoms, such as seizures and headaches. By addressing the underlying cause of the behavioral changes, pet owners can help to improve their dog’s quality of life and reduce the likelihood of further behavioral problems.

Dog Behavior Due to Epilepsy.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects the nervous system and can cause seizures in dogs. This condition can have a significant impact on a dog’s behavior, as well as its physical health, as seizures can lead to injury and stress. Epilepsy can result from various causes, including genetics, brain damage, and infections. This condition can have a significant impact on a dog’s quality of life, as well as the well-being of their pet owners, who may become distressed or anxious as a result of their pet’s seizures.

For example, a dog with epilepsy may start to display signs of confusion and disorientation after a seizure. This can lead to decreased social interaction, activity levels, and irritability. Treatment for epilepsy in dogs typically involves using an anticonvulsant medication, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. In some cases, dietary changes and other therapies may also be necessary to manage the condition. In addition, pet owners may need to take precautions to protect their dogs during a seizure, such as removing any dangerous objects and ensuring their dog is in a safe place.

Dog Behavior Due to Addison’s Disease and Cushing’s Disease.

Addison’s disease and Cushing’s disease are both endocrine disorders that can affect a dog’s behavior and overall health. Addison’s disease, also known as hypoadrenocorticism, is a condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones. In contrast, Cushing’s disease, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, is a condition where the adrenal glands produce too much hormone.

Addison’s disease can cause symptoms such as weight loss, decreased appetite, lethargy, and abdominal pain. These symptoms can impact a dog’s behavior, causing them to become less active, less social, and more irritable. On the other hand, Cushing’s disease can cause symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, increased appetite, and abdominal distension. These symptoms can lead to behavioral changes such as increased aggression, hyperactivity, and restlessness.

Addison’s disease and Cushing’s can be diagnosed through blood tests and treated through hormone replacement therapy or medication. Pet owners can help improve their dog’s behavior and overall health by addressing the underlying hormonal imbalances.

Conclusion.

Behavioral problems in dogs can be caused by various medical conditions and illnesses, including allergies, thyroid disease, arthritis, cognitive dysfunction syndrome, epilepsy, Addison’s disease, and Cushing’s disease. Understanding the connection between these medical issues and behavior can help pet owners identify and address any underlying problems, improve their dogs’ quality of life, and prevent further behavioral problems. Pet owners play a critical role in the health and well-being of their dogs, and they need to be vigilant about identifying and addressing any medical conditions or illnesses that may be contributing to behavioral problems. With the proper support and care, pet owners can help their dogs to live happy and healthy lives, free from pain and discomfort.

Pet owners should consult with their veterinarian if they notice any changes in their dog’s behavior, as early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve the outcome for their furry friend.

References.

American Kennel Club. (2021). Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/canine-cognitive-dysfunction-syndrome/
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. (2021). Seizures in Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/seizures-dogs
Cummings, J. L., & Benson, D. F. (1996). Cognitive Neuroscience and Alzheimer’s Disease. San Diego, CA: Academic Press.
Hershey, A. D., Black, S., Czenko, E., Kross, E., Phelps, E. A., & Scripps Research Institute. (2011). Seizures, Epilepsy, and the Brain. New York, NY: Oxford University Press.
Jazayeri, S., & Wasterlain, C. G. (2015). Seizures and Epilepsy. London, UK: Springer.
Longo, D. L., Fauci, A. S., Kasper, D. L., Hauser, S. L., Jameson, J. L., & Loscalzo, J. (2018). Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Education.
(2021). Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/neurological/c_dg_canine_cognitive_dysfunction_syndrome
Platt, J. R., & Johnson, K. E. (2017). Neurology and Neurosurgery Illustrated. Edinburgh, UK: Churchill Livingstone.
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(2021). Seizures in Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.vetstreet.com/care/seizures-in-dogs.
“Clinical Signs of Central Nervous System Tumors in Dogs.” (Vetstreet, 2013). This article describes various clinical signs of brain tumors in dogs, including changes in behavior
“Canine Brain Tumors.” (PetMD, 2018). This article provides an overview of brain tumors in dogs, including their symptoms and the impact they can have on behavior.
“Canine Cushing’s Disease: Symptoms and Treatment.” (American Kennel Club, 2020). This article discusses the symptoms of Cushing’s disease in dogs, including behavioral changes
“Cushing’s Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment.” (WebMD, 2018). This article provides a comprehensive overview of Cushing’s disease in dogs, including its effects on behavior.
“Addison’s Disease in Dogs.” (Vetstreet, 2013). This article provides an overview of Addison’s disease in dogs, including its symptoms and the impact it can have on behavior.
“Canine Addison’s Disease: Symptoms and Treatment.” (American Kennel Club, 2020). This article discusses the symptoms of Addison’s disease in dogs, including changes in behavior.
Luescher, U.A. et al. (2001) “Serotonin metabolism in dogs with behavioral disorders”. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 219 (9), pp. 1290–1294).
Heinrichs, B. et al. (2002) “Dopamine and aggressive behavior in dogs”. Psychopharmacology, 159 (3), pp. 291-295).
Landsberg, G. et al. (2015) “Behavioral pharmacology of fear and anxiety in dogs”. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 45 (5), pp. 1035–1048).

By Will Bangura, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Behavior Consultant Canine.