Serotonin is one of many brain chemicals involved in the brain’s mood circuits. It also plays an active role in sleep-wake cycles and appetite. Did you also know that how well your dog produces serotonin can be the key to dog behaviour problems?
Dog behaviour problems, a heritable disease? Serotonin regulates fear-aggression behaviours. Regulation success depends on the individual’s ability to provide serotonin to the brain. Regulation ability is a heritable feature in dogs. In other words, fear aggression in a parent dog can result in dog behaviour problems in puppies.
Mood and food Hangry dog? Serotonin provides the bridge between mood and food. Serotonin is to blame for grouchiness when you are hungry. Serotonin levels rise in anticipation of food arriving and peak during a meal. This peak during eating triggers activation of mood circuitry and a calmer state of mind.
Hot of the press this week is a new role for serotonin in reducing the body’s sensitivity to pain. The implications for the management of chronic pain and dog behaviour has lead to much excitement.
Ensuring the building blocks for serotonin are provided in adequate quantities is vital for your dog’s health. If you are unsure, seek help from your vet.