Advances in the neurobiology of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) have raised the possibility that animal models in general and neuroethological models in particular may be useful in understanding and investigating this illness. One neuroethologically oriented model is that of canine acral lick dermatitis. In this report, we review the advantages and limitations of animal models of OCD. Preliminary data on the use of fluoxetine in the treatment of canine acral lick dermatitis are discussed.