Can dogs have autism - and is it the same as in humans?

Thankfully, autism in humans is now understood and is getting the attention it deserves. 

But it has raised questions about whether autism is a strictly human experience, and if other animals, like our dogs, can have it.

To answer your key question: no, dogs can't have autism. At least not in the same way humans do. Autism isn't a clinical diagnosis in dogs, and vets don't recognise it currently.

But dogs can have something called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) and other behavioural problems that might look like autism.

Here, we define what autism is, the signs that are often mistaken for it and when you should see a vet.

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What's autism?

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental disability which impacts how people learn, communicate and interact with others.

There's a whole spectrum of possible symptoms, ranging from difficulty understanding social cues to repetitive behaviour.

With symptoms that broad, it's understandable how some people think their dog is experiencing autism, when, in reality, they could be dealing with a different issue.

Can dogs have autism?

No, dogs can't have autism. It's not a condition vets recognise currently.

But some people might use the term "dog autism" to describe dogs with unusual social behaviours, patterns or tendencies.

The term lacks a firm diagnostic category. But vets can see patients coming in where the owners think they have autism when, in reality, they're dealing with something else, like allergies, CCD or neurological issues.

Can dogs have autism signs and symptoms?

So, can dogs have autism signs? Some dog behaviour can look like autism, but it isn't the same as ASD; usually, they're symptoms of a wider health problem.

Signs that could be similar to autism include:

Repetitive behaviour

• Excessive licking

• Excessive tail chasing

• Obsessive behaviour over toys and food

• Pacing

• Pica (eating non-edible items)

• Too much barking and vocalisation

Sensitivity

• Appetite changes

• Intense reaction to smell

• Problems with food

• Startled by light

• Startled by noise

• Unusual body language

• Unusual sounds or vocalisations

Social challenges

• Aggression

• Avoiding eye contact

• Clinginess

• Difficulty with other dogs or people

• Doting on their owners too much

• Excessive marking

• House soiling

• Hyperactivity

• Strong separation anxiety

What might cause "autism-like" behaviours in dogs?

Perceived autism could be caused by these conditions:

Allergies

Dogs with skin allergies could show repetitive behaviours like chewing their paws and excessive licking. 

Anxiety

Anxiety or stress can cause all sorts of behavioural problems, leading to challenging social interactions, repetitive behaviour and an inability to relax.

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD)

CCD, or dog dementia, is an age-related disease that causes progressive cognitive decline. You'll see behavioural changes, like confusion, difficulty learning new things and house soiling. It's sometimes misattributed to autism.

Discomfort or pain

A dog in significant discomfort or pain can sometimes express behavioural problems.

Poor socialisation

A pet that is poorly socialised will struggle in social situations. Thankfully, this is very treatable with positive socialisation training.

Poor training

Poor or inconsistent training may contribute to behavioural issues.

Sensory problems

Sometimes, a vet will see a dog with autism-like symptoms, but the pet will actually have sensory problems, like deafness or deteriorated vision. These can lead to social withdrawal or unusual behaviour.

Diagnosis and treatment

The next steps will depend on whatever is causing autism-like symptoms, which is why you must consult a vet.

A vet will likely follow a thorough diagnostic process to work out what is causing your dog's behavioural issues. This may include:

Taking a history 

Discussing your dog’s symptoms with you will help the vet narrow down the possible causes.

Physical examination 

Examining your pet will help your vet understand your pet’s overall health and condition.

Blood tests

Depending on your vet’s findings, they may suggest blood tests to rule out any underlying metabolic or organ issues.

Diagnostic imaging

If your vet suspects your dog has pain somewhere or they are showing signs of neurological disease, they may suggest diagnostic imaging like X-rays or MRI scans.

Treatment options for autism-like behaviour

Allergies

There are many different medications that can help you to manage skin allergies in your dog. Your vet will discuss a treatment plan specific to your dog’s needs.

Anxiety

Changes in your pet’s routine and environment may help with their anxiety. Working alongside a qualified pet behaviourist will also help you to address your dog’s needs and give you effective techniques to help with their anxiety. Medication can sometimes be useful too. 

Behaviour problems

A professional dog trainer or qualified behaviourist may be needed if you are struggling with your pet’s behavioural issues. Patience, plenty of exercise and positive association training will also help.

CCD

Age plays a big part in this condition and, unfortunately, it cannot be cured. Keeping their routine and environment consistent will help them to feel more secure. You should also speak to your vet about medication that might help to improve their symptoms.

Pain

Your vet can advise you on your dog’s condition and what pain relief options are available. Once their pain is well-managed you should find that their behaviour improves. 

Sensory issues

There are many different causes of blindness and deafness. Some of these are curable, but many of them aren’t.

Keeping your home environment and routine consistent can help your pet feel safe. Your vet will be able to advise you on any treatment options available for your dog.

How dog insurance can help

So, to recap, dogs don't have autism in the human sense. But if you feel like your dog is suffering from symptoms that look like autism, let your vet know as there could still be something going on.

With proper diagnosis and treatment, your vet and a behaviourist can work to give your dog a rewarding, fulfilling life.

Remember: our dog insurance can help with up to £15,000 vet fee cover, unlimited 24/7 vet calls with FirstVet and a host of other ManyPets Perks.

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