Effects of dextroamphetamine on motor activity, cardiac frequency and behaviour in beagles

According to several American veterinary behaviorists, hyperactivity (“hyperkinesis”) can be distinguished from over activity by paradoxical physiological and behavioral responses of dogs given dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate (CNS stimulants). In this study, 12 beagle dogs from a research colony aged 13 to 20 months of age were used to measure the effects of dextroamphetamine (0.2mg/kg) on cardiac frequency, motor activity, and general behavioral changes. Prior to and following administration of the treatment, dogs were recorded by video, Polar® (heart rate) and Actical® (accelerometer) software. Although not all results are finalized at this time, the preliminary results seem to indicate that administration of dextroamphetamine may not be a reliable indicator of “hyperkinesis”. Collar mounted accelerometers where found to be an objective measure of motor activity.