Humans and dogs share a lot of similarities, including common illnesses and some mental health conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, one condition that humans have but dogs likely do not is Tourette syndrome (TS).
TS is a tic disorder characterized by involuntary sounds or movements, ranging from simple to complex. While 1.4 million children and adults are affected by this condition, the cause remains unknown, making treatment challenging.
Signs and Complications of Tourette Syndrome
TS is characterized by tics that usually appear in children under 15, with boys being more susceptible. The disorder has a genetic component and can involve motor and vocal tics, sometimes including vulgar gestures or words. Treatment focuses on dopamine control and managing complications associated with the disease.
Dogs are unlikely to have TS like humans, but they can experience other tic disorders such as OCD or psychomotor seizures.
Known Disorders in Dogs
Dogs may exhibit signs similar to TS, but other tic disorders like OCD or psychomotor seizures could be the cause. Veterinarians often use medication to manage behavioral problems in dogs, such as clomipramine, an antidepressant.
Seizures Disorders
In addition to full-body seizures, dogs can develop psychomotor or partial seizures that may resemble tics. It’s essential to have a veterinary workup done for dogs experiencing seizures to determine the underlying cause.
Myoclonus
Myoclonus is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and can be caused by various factors. Unlike TS, myoclonus has an identifiable cause and may have different treatment options based on the underlying issue.
REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD)
REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) can cause abnormal movements in dogs while sleeping, resembling tics or seizure-like movements. Unlike TS, these movements occur only during sleep.
Paroxysmal Kinesigenic Dyskinesia (PKD)
PKD shares similarities with TS and can result in involuntary muscle contractions in animals. Stress can trigger these signs, and a definitive diagnosis may have a poor prognosis. Genetic testing is available to identify carriers of PKD, which also occurs in humans.
Final Thoughts
While dogs do not get TS, they may exhibit signs resembling it due to other tic disorders. A comprehensive veterinary examination can help determine the underlying cause of your dog’s behavior and guide appropriate treatment.
Featured Image Credit: AnnaStills, Shutterstock
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