Can dogs have autism? It sounds strange but it is a possibility. Recently, there have been many cases showing autism in dogs. There have been many studies by the Autism research and education communities on how autism affects human relations. However, it’s been realised that dogs can also exhibit similar ways of relating to the world. Thus, the question whether dogs can have autism does not seem strange. In fact, it has been the frequently asked question in the past years.

What is dog autism?  

In human beings, autism has been described as another way of uniquely being human. It is defined by extreme difficulty in communicating and forming human relations due to some mental condition. In dogs, however, autism is shown when your dog engages in constant and repetitive behaviours. This could be movements such as rocking, spinning or hand flapping. Below, is a detailed explanation of signs that could tell you if your dog has autism.

Signs your dog has autism

1. Constant repetitive behaviours

Dogs are characterized by their playful nature. They usually engage in different activities. However, you might have noticed that your dog constantly does one activity. Some of these activities include the following:

• Constant movements
• He repeatedly bangs himself on a surface and also rocks himself.
• Constant spinning and hand flapping
• Coordination problems are seen through odd movements, stiff and exaggerated body language.

2. Lack of social communication and interaction

Despite being raised by different families, dogs always interact well and easily with themselves. Therefore, if your dog is unable to form interactions with other dogs, it might have autism. Similarly, you will be able to tell your dog has autism if he responds slowly when called and also prefer to stay alone and resists cuddling. Your dog could also show some unusual facial expressions or even lack such facials expressions. On other days, your dog could communicate using unfamiliar and strange voices.

Dogs are quick to ask for items and gifts. One other sign of social impairment is when your dog is unable to ask for items or direct you towards something. Human beings keep dogs as pets because of their ability to understand emotions. If your lack emotions and is slow to reciprocate such feelings, then it might be suffering from autism. Poor facial expressions and inability to start a conversation is also another sign of poor interaction.

3. Compulsive behaviours

This may sound crazy. However, some dogs with autism have shown some compulsive behaviours. If your dog is specific on which toys to play, how his food is placed and only sleep on a certain mat, then your dog could have autism.

Summary

From the above statements, we have been able to show that dogs can also have autism. This condition, however, can be diagnosed and managed. There are many techniques available that you can use to manage the condition. Such activities include using wraps that exert body pressure on your dog in case it gets agitated and also training your dog to engage in heavy duties. Finally, it is important that you constantly show love to your dog. This will help to ease agitations and any discomfort caused by the condition.

You can view our full range of Health and Care eBooks here ...