The idea that dogs might display autism-like traits first emerged in the 1960s, when veterinarians began noting unusual behavioral patterns that resembled symptoms seen in humans.
Today, the conversation has resurfaced after a UK scientist suggested that canines may indeed experience a form of the neurodevelopmental condition.
Dr Jacqueline Boyd, an animal scientist at Nottingham Trent University, said dogs share key structural and chemical brain differences with humans, making them vulnerable to similar disorders.
While there is still no formal veterinary diagnosis for autism or ADHD in dogs, autistic functional nutritionist Jewelz Ketovore has outlined signs that may help owners identify potential concerns.
‘The technical term vets use is ‘canine dysfunctional behavior,’ but for our purposes today, we’re just going to call it ‘doggy autism,’ she said in a YouTube video.
Ketovore explained that the behaviors typically fall into three broad areas: repetitive actions, social interaction changes and sensory sensitivities.
‘If you’re seeing a lot of these signs, talk to your vet about a proper evaluation. Just like with humans, changing diet and lifestyle can make a huge difference for dogs, too,’ she added.
‘Our pets can develop the same kinds of health issues, behavioral problems, and even neurological conditions when they’re not eating and living the way their biology intended.’
There is no formal diagnosis for dogs, but experts have shared signs to help owners spot the disorder
Little Rays ABA, a company specializing in behavioral therapy techniques, expanded on those categories, noting that repetitive movements and ritual-like patterns often dominate a dog’s day and restrict normal interaction.
‘These compulsive actions may occupy large blocks of a dog’s day, leading to frustration and reduced interaction with family members,’ the company said.
Such behaviors can include persistent tail chasing, fixed-path pacing, or constant paw licking that leads to irritation or hair loss.
Some dogs also grind their teeth or become intensely fixated on a single object, refusing to shift their attention.
Experts warned that when these habits become excessive or harmful, a professional evaluation is essential.
Social behavior can provide additional clues. According to Little Rays ABA, dogs exhibiting autism-like traits may avoid or limit eye contact, mirroring gaze aversion observed in humans with autism spectrum disorder.
They may also hesitate when approached by people or other dogs, retreating or freezing instead of responding with typical social gestures.
A noticeable decrease in interest in play, especially games requiring shared engagement, can signal difficulties interpreting social cues.
The behaviors typically fall into three broad areas: repetitive actions, social interaction changes and sensory sensitivities
Communication challenges often accompany these changes, as some dogs vocalize in unusual ways, such as prolonged howling or monotonous, repetitive barking.
Little Rays ABA noted that body language may also seem atypical, as some dogs might hold a stiff posture, avoid greeting rituals, or appear to ignore previously learned commands.
In many cases, the issue is not defiance but sensory or cognitive overload, underscoring the need for patient and consistent observation.
Sensory sensitivities round out the list of indicators. Many dogs react intensely to commonplace sounds, trembling or bolting in response to vacuums, doorbells, or passing cars.
‘Dogs may cover ears, tremble, or bolt in response to everyday noises such as vacuum cleaners, doorbells, or traffic. These reactions exceed typical startle responses,’ Little Rays ABA said.
Others develop discomfort around touch, avoiding petting or grooming even from familiar people, while some show strong aversions to certain smells or textures in food.
These heightened sensitivities mirror patterns seen in humans with autism and often require environmental adjustments and gradual desensitization.
‘If your dog checks a bunch of these boxes… congratulations, you might have an autistic dog,’ Ketovore said.
Experts said supporting dogs with autism-like behaviors requires consistent routines, positive reinforcement training, and environmental enrichment.
Structured daily schedules for feeding, walks, and play help reduce anxiety and give dogs a sense of predictability.
Puzzle feeders, quiet retreat zones and assistive tools like calming vests or noise-reducing gear can further ease stress and curb repetitive behaviors, with regular adjustments ensuring the strategies remain effective.
