Integrating the gut-brain axis, CBD, and melatonin in the management of anxiety and frustration-driven displacement behavior in a Lagotto Romagnolo: An integrated approach

Abstract

Ettore, a two-and-a-half-year-old male Lagotto Romagnolo, underwent a behavioral visit due to difficulty staying calm at home in the presence of the female caregiver. The manifested symptoms—hyperactivity, constant demands for interaction, and displacement behaviors (e.g., scratching, pacing, destructiveness)—were interpreted as the expression of an underlying anxiety exacerbated by chronic frustration, typical of high-drive dogs. The onset coincided with a modification in the female caregiver schedule and diminished availability. The therapeutic protocol integrated melatonin and cannabidiol (CBD) for their anxiolytic and wellness-enhancing effects, alongside focused support for the gut-brain axis, together with a targeted behavioral and environmental modification intervention. Subsequent follow-ups showed a significant decrease in restlessness and an enhancement in autonomy, validating the effectiveness of a multimodal management strategy that incorporates medication, emotional support, and a focus on gut health.