HOW TO FIND OUT IF YOUR DOG HAS ADHD

Is your dog constantly restless, impulsive, or unable to focus? According to new research, your pet might be showing signs of ADHD, and now there’s a scientific way to screen for it.

Researchers at Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary have created the first screening test for dogs suspected of having attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The tool flags dogs as “at-risk” if they display a certain number of behavioral symptoms, including inability to focus, Restlessness or constant movement, impulsive actions, loss of ability to complete tasks.

Dogs meeting all criteria were considered likely to have the condition.

In a study of nearly 1,900 dogs, 79 were identified as meeting the ADHD criteria — a prevalence rate similar to that seen in adults with ADHD, according to Dr. Márta Gácsi, one of the lead researchers.

“This prevalence rate is surprisingly similar to what has been reported in adults with ADHD,” Gácsi said.

ADHD-Like Symptoms in Dogs: What We Know

The findings could pave the way for better understanding and treatment of canine ADHD — a condition that remains largely unrecognized but may affect many pets. Past studies estimate that up to 20% of dogs naturally exhibit ADHD-like behaviors such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.

Certain breeds, like German Shepherds, Border Collies, and various terriers, are also more prone to restlessness — especially if their lifestyles lack physical or mental stimulation, according to the American Kennel Club.

Other risk factors include age, sex, a lack of social interaction or structured activities.

While regular exercise and mental engagement can help manage symptoms, some dogs may require professional behavioral training.

Diagnosis Still Requires Expert Input

Although the new test marks a breakthrough in canine behavior research, the researchers caution that it’s not designed to provide a definitive diagnosis on its own.

“A final diagnosis should be based on multiple sources: the owner-rated questionnaire, a short behavioural test, and expert consultation,” Gácsi explained.

One of the challenges, researchers noted, is that owners may not always recognize the signs of ADHD in their pets, which can delay care or misattribute the behavior to training issues.

Human Parallels

The study also highlights similarities between ADHD in dogs and humans. In people, the condition is believed to stem from a mix of genetic and environmental factors, including prenatal exposure to tobacco or alcohol, maternal mental health, or head injuries.

“In human diagnostics, the presence of symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity alone does not necessarily indicate ADHD,” said Dr. Nóra Bunford, a clinical psychologist at the university. “A key element is functional impairment — whether these symptoms negatively impact daily life.”

In the U.S., more than 7 million children have been diagnosed with ADHD, making it one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. Diagnosis can take months and typically involves input from multiple professionals.

What’s Next?

The Hungarian team hopes to refine their screening method to make it more accurate and accessible. There is no timeline yet for when the final version might be made publicly available, but the researchers are optimistic about its potential to improve canine well-being.

In the meantime, dog owners are encouraged to stay attentive to behavioral changes and consult veterinarians or behavioral specialists if their pet shows consistent signs of hyperactivity, impulsivity, or lack of focus.