Abnormal Behaviors Aren't Always Psychological: Compulsive behaviors can be caused by medical issues.
As veterinary behaviorists we commonly see dogs exhibiting bizarre repetitive behaviors. Examples of repetitive behaviors seen in dogs include flank sucking, fly biting, light chasing, spinning, tail chasing, hind end checking, self-licking, and licking of objects or surfaces. These behaviors may be caused by compulsive disorders, which are described as repetitive, ritualistic behaviors that are performed excessively and interfere with normal daily activities.1 Compulsive behaviors are often initially associated with situations that cause conflict or frustration and are later displayed in other situations when the dog is agitated or excited.2 They can occupy a large percentage of a dog’s day and negatively impact the quality of life.
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