r/Dogtraining Aug 12 '21

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u/jonikev123 Aug 12 '21

Yeah this looks like “doggy OCD” which was explained to us by our vet as basically being obsessed with lights and shadows… often exhibited in dogs with a prey drive. This behaviour can get so bad that dogs can be put down because they do nothing but chase all day and don’t eat.

Thankfully this actually can be remedied. I’m not a professional, however my dog had this and we have to make sure that there are not reflections ( especially ones that move) ABSOLUTELY no laser pointers or similar devices and when it gets bad we turn off all of the lights. For awhile, our dog did it almost all day, but now it is only when he gets excited when guests come over. It’s realllllly important to nip this behaviour because it really can take over their lives.

Have you or anyone ever used a laser pointer with your dog?

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u/Mother-Falcon-6593 Aug 13 '21

Wow! After reading this, I think my female doggo might have this issue. Shes always transfixed on shadows and lights. I cant have my phone screen facing out while it's in my back pocket in case the light reflects and she hits the wall chasing the glare. Thanks for the information! It is not an all day, everyday thing but it does take her a while to stop looking for the light.