The human as a model for Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in domestic dogs (Canis familiaris)

Abstract

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has a high prevalence in human children. Many studies have investigated the ethiology, diagnostics and therapeutics of the disorder in humans. Domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) display a behavioural disorder that appears to be identical to ADHD in humans. Nevertheless, this disorder is not as thoroughly analysed as in humans. The studies that were conducted on ADHD in domestic dogs have demonstrated many similarities in behavioural characteristics, diagnostics and therapeutics compared to ADHD in humans. This suggests that the same underlying mechanisms are involved in the ethiology of the disorder. It seems that the human can serve as a suitable model for ADHD in domestic dogs to expand the knowledge on the ethiology of ADHD and to assist in developing alternative pharmacological interventions.