Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that delivers a weak electrical current to a targeted brain region via scalp electrodes, modulating neuronal excitability. In humans, tDCS has been studied for its potential to improve symptoms in conditions such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD, and has shown promising effects on attention and inhibitory control in both clinical and healthy populations. Despite neurobiological similarities between humans and dogs, the use of tDCS in dogs remains unexplored, presenting an opportunity to investigate its cognitive effects. This pilot study aims to evaluate a protocol testing the effect of tDCS on inhibitory control and attention in working dogs. A randomized cross-over design will be used, with each dog undergoing testing twice – once after tDCS treatment and once after a sham-treatment, with a five-day interval between sessions. Stimulation will be delivered at 2mA for 20 minutes targeting the left frontal cortex, using established neuronavigation landmarks. Among the cognitive tests that will be evaluated are the A-not-B test, the cylinder test, and an adapted sustained attention test. Testing is scheduled for fall 2025. The goal of this study is to establish a replicable protocol for future research on the effects of tDCS on sustained attention, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control. While the current focus is on healthy working dogs, the broader aim is to explore whether enhanced cognitive control could improve learning processes. This may promote more effective training and could present future applications in behavioural cases, ultimately improving their welfare.
Walraven et al. (Wed,) studied this question.