Michael Baugh CDBC

There are dog behaviors that people label ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). We could call these ADHD-like behaviors. However, there is no ADHD diagnosis for dogs as there is for humans.

Which dog behaviors do some people mislabel as ADHD?

Inattention and failure to respond to cues
Easily distracted (by other animals, sounds, scents, etc.)
Increased activity in response to stimuli (jumping, running, body-slamming)
Pulling, lunging, or weaving on walks

Investigators are studying canine ADHD. They’ve modeled their studies after ADHD studies of human children. So far, the research has been problematic.

Most studies rely on owner-reported behaviors, which are vague and unreliable.
The research yields some correlations, but still does not yield any information about causation.
Canine ADHD treatment lacks the testing human ADHD treatments have had.

While labeling patterns of behavior can help us communicate clearly and efficiently sometimes, this is not the case with ADHD in dogs. Unless there is a consensus among veterinarians, canine cognitions, and researchers over the criteria for diagnosis, we are operating in a Wild West environment of varying interpretations of behavior. What is ADHD in dogs? What is it not? We just don’t know.

There is hope, though. No matter what we call it, we can still influence and even change our dogs’ behavior.

How do we help dogs with ADHD-like behavior?

Look closely at individual behavior. Observe without judgement or interpretation.
Apply environmental controls to reduce triggering unwanted behavior.
Teach new behavior patterns to replace unwanted behavior using positive reinforcement training.
A licensed veterinarian may recommend medical intervention.

Some unruly behavior in dogs is mild and temporary. This is especially true in puppies and adolescent dogs. In adult dogs, inattention, quick changes in movement, and rough physical contact can be annoying and even dangerous.

Who can you call to help with ADHD-like behavior in dogs? (and who should you not?)

✅ A positive reinforcement Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (IAABC)

✅ A veterinary behaviorist

✅ A Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB)

🚫 A punishment-based trainer or balanced dog trainer who uses leash corrections, prong collars, or shock collars

Dogs are eager learners. They are always experimenting with new behavior. Their actions and their potential to learn outweigh any label or possible diagnosis. Behavior can change; it’s always changing. And we can influence our dogs’ behavior. We can help them change. All it takes is some know-how, some patience, and yes — some attention.

Michael Baugh teaches dog training in Sedona AZ and Houston TX. He specializes in Aggressive Dog Training.