The saying goes that dogs are 'man's best friend,' but our canine companions may be afflicted by one of our less desirable traits: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
A study from researchers at the University of Helsinki, which included approximately 11,000 dogs, found that younger dogs and male dogs, as well as certain breeds, are more likely to suffer from hyperactivity, impulsive behavior and inattention, all symptoms of ADHD.
Breeds such as Cairn Terrier, Jack Russell Terrier and German Shepherd were seen as more likely to suffer from these ailments than other breeds, including Labrador Retriever, Miniature Poodle and Chihuahua.
Some dogs are afflicted by certain aspects of ADHD, like hyperactivity and inattention, a new study has found
Younger dogs, male dogs and certain breeds are more likely to suffer from ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity, impulsive behavior and inattention
Dogs who also spent more time alone at home on a daily basis were more hyperactive, impulsive and inattentive than those who were in the company of other animals or humans.
The owner's experience with the dog also played a role, as hyperactivity and impulsivity were seen more in dogs that were not their owners' first dogs.
'We found that hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention were more common in young dogs and male dogs. Corresponding observations relating to age and gender in connection with ADHD have been made in humans too,' co-author of the study, Jenni Puurunen, said in a statement.
Researchers looked at approximately 11,000 dogs to come up with their findings
The research also found that the symptoms of ADHD seen in certain breeds of dogs are also linked to certain behaviors, such as obsessive-compulsiveness, aggressiveness and fearfulness
The researchers observed the hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention in the dogs in the same way that the ailments are observed in humans.
Being alone for extended periods of time is likely a key reason that the dogs develop signs of ADHD, given they are social animals.
'As social animals, dogs can get
