We may have fostered neurodiversity in our pets.
Jacqueline Boydprofessor of Animal Science at Nottingham Trent University (United Kingdom), explains her theory in an article in .
The scientist begins by saying that she lives with several cocker spaniels: “They are intelligent and affectionate, but sometimes head over heels, impulsive and extremely sensitive. Friends often describe my dogs as autistic“.
People are increasingly aware of neurodiversity, and diagnoses such as autism and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) are becoming more common.
Scientists are beginning to pay attention to the idea that some animals can also experience this world, due to the diversity in the way their brains work.
Anyone who has lived with, trained or cared for animals will be aware of how individual their personality differences can be. But can animals really be neurodivergent? What could this mean for the way we care for, train and manage them? – asks Boyd.
The researcher cites several studies that indicate that a variety of species, including dogs, rats and non-human primates, can show genetic and behavioral signs of neurodivergence.
For example, structural differences in genes known to be associated with hypersocial behavior have been found in dogs.
Impulsive behavior in dogs is also linked to low levels of neurotransmitters serotonin e dopamine. Serotonin is important for emotional stability, while dopamine helps with focus.
In turn, imbalances and difficulty in regulating these neurotransmitters may also be present. associated with ADHD in peopleand is often characterized by impulsivity. This also raises the interesting possibility that when we raise animals to live alongside us, we selected animals with behavior similar to what is reported by neurodiverse people.
Model animal autism
Scientists have developed animal models of autism to help them understand factors linked to increased risk and to explore potential therapeutic supports.
These models are developed from selectively bred laboratory animals and may not fully represent the typical diversity of the population. However, they remain valuable in helping us understand the biological basis of neurodiversity.
For example, a study in Wiley Advancedin 2024, revealed that some Beagle dogs have a mutation in a gene called Shank3 – which is linked to autism in humans and is often characterized by difficulties in social interactions.
Shank3 mutation can result in impaired neuronal processing and signaling, limiting spontaneous social interactions and bonds between dogs and people.
Canine research into Shank3 has also provided a clue about potential supportive medical interventions for human autism. A single dose of the psychedelic drug LSD was given to dogs with the Shank3 mutation. This resulted in increased attention and improved neuronal coupling with people over the course of five days.
Rats and humans also appear to show a greater inclination toward social behavior following LSD administration. There are legal, safety, and ethical issues associated with their use, but animal models can certainly help us understand the underlying differences in how the neurodivergent brain works.
These models can also help us diagnose human neurodivergence. Typical diagnostic processes for adults involve long discussions and reviewing how someone handles daily life, which can be difficult given that neurodivergent people often have communication difficulties.
