Could Your Dog Have Autism? Here’s What the Experts Say
Autism in dogs is often misunderstood – our experts debunk the myths
Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) affect over 2.20 percent of adults in the United Statesopens in a new tab (1–3 percent in the UK), and one in every 100 children is diagnosed with ASD every year. Dogs can display similar behavioural characteristics and traits to their human parents, but can they also be on the autism spectrum?
Can dogs be diagnosed with autism?
While dogs can display traits that resemble autism in humans, there is no officially recognised diagnosis of ASD in dogs due to a lack of standardised criteria. However, autism traits are often grouped under the term ‘canine dysfunctional behaviour’ (CDB).
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opens in a new tab“CDB is a term that’s been used to describe a range of behaviours in dogs, and some of those can be similar to the autistic spectrum,” says Caroline Wilkinson, certified animal behaviourist and founder of digital pet coaching service Barket Placeopens in a new tab.
Another term, ‘canine cognitive dysfunction’ (CCD), which is essentially dog dementia and may resemble Alzheimer’s, also manifests in autistic-like behaviours and affects 14–35 percent of dogsopens in a new tab over eight years old.
“While dogs cannot be diagnosed with autism as humans can, certain atypical behaviours and neurodevelopmental anomalies in dogs are often likened to ASD in humans,” says Dr Kathryn Dench, MA VetMB. “These observations are primarily based on behavioural traits and neurological assessments.”
Common ASD-like behaviours displayed in dogs – signs to look out for
It’s important to note that not all ASD-like behaviours will result in a diagnosis of CDB or CCD, and some behaviours could be triggered by another cause. For example, increased anxiety can sometimes be as a result of an underlying medical condition or new onset of painopens in a new tab. If you’re concerned about unusual behaviours from your pup, speak to a vet to rule out any underlying causes before searching for a diagnosis of CDB or CCD.
That being said, there are some typical habits that constitute ASD-like behaviour. Being less inclined to have social interactions, not exhibiting typical dog behaviours such as making eye contact, directing paw movements, responding to pointing gestures, displaying repetitive behaviours, increased anxiety or aggressive tendencies can all be examples of ASD-like behaviour, explains Caroline.
Per Dr Dench, autism-like behaviours in dogs include persistent and repetitive actions, issues with social interaction with humans or dogs and unusual responses to sensory stimuli.
Compulsive pacing, fixed routines or rituals, indifference to commands or cues, and hypersensitivity to soundsopens in a new tab or touch are also examples of signs that could be considered as ASD-like behaviour.
“Observing your dog’s reaction to new environments or changes in routine can also provide clues,” says Dr Dench.
Overall, your dog may be less sociable, struggling with certain situations or learning new things.
Behavioural changes don’t necessarily mean your dog has ASD
When our beloved dogs act out of the ordinary, it’s only natural to worry and wonder why – but it’s important not to jump to conclusions. Unusual behaviours – even the ones mentioned – won’t always mean that your dog has autism, and there are a number of factors that could influence your dog’s behaviour, explains Caroline.
“We know that things like gut health in our dogs – strains of bacteria in the microbiome – are related to how our dogs behave emotionally,” she says.
Sometimes, your dog’s behaviour might stem from discomfort, pain or another underlying health issue. These can lead to things like withdrawal, hiding or avoiding social interaction, which might look like CDB, but could be something entirely different.
If your dog’s behaviour has changed, consulting your vet should be your first step. They’ll be able to rule out potential causes such as deficiencies, thyroid issues or gut health concerns. A full health check, including blood tests, is often recommended to get to the bottom of the issue. Sometimes, the answer isn’t as simple as a behavioural diagnosis but a deeper health-related concern that can be managed or treated.
Do vaccines play a role in diagnosing ASD-like behaviour in dogs?
The British Veterinary Association has debunkedopens in a new tab any link between vaccinations and autism in dogs. “There is no scientific evidence to support a link between vaccines and autism in dogs,” says Dr Dench. “The benefits of vaccinations in preventing serious canine diseases far outweigh the unproven risks of inducing autism-like symptoms.”
But Caroline, as an animal behaviourist, has seen that vaccines can cause changes in a dog’s behaviour. Indeed, vaccines protect our precious pups, “But I've seen things like puppies going for their vaccinations and then becoming fearful and growly and touch-sensitive within a few days after that,” adds Caroline.
“In a US surveyopens in a new tab, 37 percent of dog owners believed that the canine vaccination could cause their dogs to develop autism, but this ties in alongside vaccination responses being debunked for humans,” says Caroline. A 2023 studyopens in a new tab showed 52 percent of people exhibiting some hesitancy to dog vaccination in the US.
How to help your dog live their best life
If you’re concerned about your dog’s behaviour, a visit to the vet is always the first port of call, particularly to rule out any other underlying medical causes of deficiencies. Once any health concerns are addressed, there are many ways to provide your dog with the extra care and support they might need.
“It's essential to approach this topic with an open mind and a commitment to the health and well-being of our canine companions,” highlights Dr Dench.
If you feel like your dog might need some extra TLC, ASD-like behaviours or not, there a few expert-backed things you can help to support them:
Structure: a structured environment, routine and regular training sessions can significantly reduce stress and improve confidence in dogs.
Training: work with a qualified behaviourist to create a specialised training programme that includes techniques for sensory processing can improve your communication with your dog.
Environment: make sure your dog has a dedicated, calm space for them to retreat to at home, an environment that makes them feel safe.
Rest: good quality sleep and rest is critical in reducing cortisol (the stress hormone) levels and improving overall well-being.
Encouragement: inspire your dog to engage with you and the world by offering positive opportunities for exploration and activity.
Space: allow them space and time to process and think about how they want to react in certain situations.
If your dog needs extra help, reaching out to an animal behaviourist like Caroline, who specialises in ethical, force-free techniques, can be invaluable. Pair this with guidance from a vet who understands behavioural issues ensures you’re taking a holistic approach to your dog’s care.
Simple changes can make a big difference
Small changes to your dog’s daily life can also work wonders. “Optimism is a great thing for us to encourage in our dogs,” says Caroline. “Activities like scent work or playing calming music can help change how your dog feels about the world.”
Whether your dog is struggling with specific behaviours or just needs a little extra TLC, the right combination of veterinary support, structure and loving attention can help them lead a more positive and fulfilling life.
