Published in 2018, this single-subject study by Angelika N. Rehrig, Deborah A. Napolitano, and C. Monsour focused on acral lick dermatitis (ALD), a common outcome of canine self-injurious behavior (SIB). ALD often involves excessive licking or chewing of the forelimbs and can be challenging to treat due to its cyclical and compulsive nature.
The subject, a ten-year-old Rottweiler/Shepherd mix, displayed persistent covert self-injury. Researchers conducted a detailed functional assessment to determine the variables maintaining the behavior, hypothesizing that it was sustained by automatic reinforcement—that is, internal sensory consequences rather than external rewards.
Several interventions were tested, including:
• Non-contingent toys to provide alternative sensory stimulation.
• Contingent and non-contingent petting to evaluate how owner interaction influenced behavior.
• Protective equipment (e.g., Elizabethan collar) to prevent physical access to the affected area while alternative strategies were implemented.
Because protective equipment is not ideal for long-term use, the researchers evaluated two methods for removing the equipment while maintaining low ALD levels. This combined behavioral approach ultimately reduced and then ameliorated the self-injury, with benefits maintained for at least one year post-intervention.
The authors highlight the need for further research to expand these methods and identify additional effective strategies for treating ALD, a condition that can severely impact canine comfort and welfare.
Source: Rehrig, A. N., Napolitano, D. A., & Monsour, C. (2018). Assessment and Treatment of Self-Injurious Behavior in a Dog.
