It has been asked at least as early as 1966 and research continues.
Quote:
The most interesting aspect to the question “Can dogs have autism?” may be where it leads in the future. The American Humane Association, Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center, Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, and the University of Massachusetts Medical School are collaborating on a study called Canines, Kids and Autism: Decoding Obsessive Behaviors in Canines and Autism in Children. The study “will look first at the causes of obsessive-compulsive disorder commonly found in three types of purebred dogs: Bull Terriers, Doberman Pinschers, and Jack Russell Terriers. Using state-of-the-art technology, TGen scientists will conduct whole genome sequencing to analyze the genomes of these dogs in hopes of pinpointing those genes that might be responsible for atypical behaviors.”
Success could mean improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of autism in both people and dogs.
http://www.petmd.com/dog/behavior/can-dogs-have-autismAnd it will be interesting to see the difference in responses between now and 2013,
viewtopic.php?t=220624Do animals get autism? 09 Jan 2013, 10:18 pm
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