‘Ball junkie’: some dogs show signs of addiction, study finds

Researchers say terrier and shepherd breeds display greater tendency for addictive-type behaviour

Whether it is a spaniel with an insatiable love for a ball or a flat-coat that cannot be without its squeaky bear, dogs can be very keen on their toys. Now researchers say some may even show signs of addiction.

While humans can take a host of activities to excess, from work to shopping, only gambling and internet gaming disorders are officially recognised as behavioural addictions, a main feature of which is repeating acts that are initially rewarding, even though they can result in longer-term harm.