Dogs might be neurodivergent and scientists say the evidence is hard to ignore

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Researchers studying animals have discovered signs that dogs, similar to people, can exhibit neurodiversity – meaning their brains can function in different ways.

Dr. Jacqueline Boyd, an animal scientist at Nottingham Trent University, believes that neurodivergence isn’t just a human trait – it can also be found in animals.

Interestingly, research reveals that many animals – like mice, rats, and monkeys – exhibit brain chemistry patterns that resemble those found in people with neurodiversity.

Dr. Boyd told the Daily Mail that dogs can show behaviors similar to those associated with Autism or ADHD in humans. This suggests they may experience conditions comparable to these neurodevelopmental differences.

Dogs aren’t typically diagnosed with specific mental health conditions. Instead, unusual behaviors are often simply called ‘Canine Dysfunctional Behavior.’ Dr. Boyd suggests that these dogs might actually share similarities with people who are neurodivergent, more than we realize.

She explained to the Daily Mail that, just like people, some dogs might have typical brain function, while others might be neurodivergent – meaning their brains work in different ways, similar to how someone with autism or ADHD experiences the world.

It’s challenging to diagnose animals with conditions like neurodiversity because they can’t communicate like humans. However, they sometimes show behaviors that would be considered signs of neurodiversity if seen in people.

Animal experts reveal evidence of neurodivergence in dogs

People with ADHD often have differences in how their brains use serotonin and dopamine, which can lead to challenges with concentration, staying still, and controlling impulsive behaviors.

Similar brain activity was also seen in dogs, and it frequently seemed to be linked to when they acted on impulse.

It’s amazing to learn that Beagles actually share a genetic link with us! They have the same Shank3 gene mutation that scientists have connected to autism in humans. It’s just incredible how much we can find in common with our furry friends!

Studies suggest that dogs showing signs of neurodiversity often have different brain activity than typical dogs and people. Specifically, their brains may not coordinate signals in the same way, which can result in them being less outgoing and more reserved.

I recently learned something amazing – when people and dogs connect, our brainwaves actually start to harmonize! It’s like we’re on the same wavelength. But apparently, some dogs – especially those with neurological differences – don’t experience this syncing. It makes me so sad to think that can make it harder for them to connect with people, and they might not interact as much because of it.

Diagnosing animals is tricky because they can’t tell us what’s wrong, but Dr. Boyd can often get a good idea of the problem if they display behaviors such as being overly alert or intensely focused.

She explained that it’s less important to label a dog as neurodivergent and more important to simply acknowledge that differences in brain function are normal and exist in all dogs.

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2025-11-20 22:49