To determine whether a dog suffers from mental illness or behavioral problems, the first thing to do is to understand their normal behavioral patterns. As a loyal partner of humans, canines have a direct impact on the quality of interaction with humans. Judging from years of veterinary practice and animal behavioral research, dogs' mental status problems are usually reflected in abnormal behaviors, such as excessive fear, aggressiveness, anxiety, compulsive behavior, etc.

1. Diagnosis of dog mental illness Before formal discussion of diagnosis, it is worth mentioning that the term "psychosis" has not been commonly used in the veterinary world so far, and doctors tend to use "behavioral problems" to describe such symptoms in dogs. Diagnosing whether dogs have mental illness is based first on understanding their normal behavior and observations of abnormal behavior. Normal dog behaviors include playing, exploring, sleeping, socializing, etc. Abnormal behaviors may include:

- Excessive anxiety or fear: Showing extreme panic response without obvious threats;

- Aggressive behavior: Showing unprovoked aggressiveness to humans, other animals or objects;

- Compulsive behavior: Repeat purposeless or ritualized behaviors, such as walking around a circle, constantly licking itself, etc.;

- Separation anxiety: When the owner leaves, the dog shows extreme tension and anxiety, which may be accompanied by damage to furniture, long-term crying, etc.

The appearance of these symptoms often requires further evaluation and diagnosis by professionals. Dog behavioral problems may be caused by a variety of reasons, including but not limited to genetic factors, parenting styles, past experiences, environmental changes, etc.

2. Common types and manifestations of dog mental illness

1. Separation anxiety disorder: may be one of the most common mental problems. Dogs may show excessive cries, vandalism, or attempt to escape.

2. Fear and anxiety disorders: sound phobia (such as fear of thunder), fear of strangers or other animals. These fears may lead to evasion, aggression, or other anxiety symptoms.

3. Aggressive behavior: Some dogs may exhibit aggressive behavior against humans or other animals, which may be related to fear, territoriality, protection, etc.

4. Obsessive-compulsive disorder: The dog may constantly repeat certain movements, such as walking around an item, continuously licking a certain part of the body, etc., which may be a manifestation of anxiety.

III. Treatment methods

The treatment of dog mental illness or behavioral problems requires comprehensive consideration. First, it is diagnosis, and then it is to develop a personalized treatment plan, including:

1. Behavior correction: Changing dog behavior usually takes time, which may involve positive reinforcement, behavioral correction training, etc.

2. Environmental management: Change the living environment of a dog and reduce the factors that cause their anxiety or fear.

3. Drug treatment: In some serious cases, a veterinary prescription medication may be required to help manage behavioral problems in a dog.

4. Professional behavioral consultation: seek help from professional animal behavior consultants and propose solutions to specific problems.

The mental health of dogs is extremely important to their happiness and their relationship with humans. Identifying and understanding the different behavioral manifestations of dogs is essential for preventing and treating mental and behavioral problems. Through comprehensive treatment and behavioral management, most behavioral problems can be effectively controlled or even cured. The key lies in the master's patience, understanding and scientific approach. Remember, when you notice that your dog is showing abnormal behavior, the first step should be to consult a professional veterinary or animal behavior expert in order to properly diagnose and develop a treatment plan.