In this chapter, we compare and discuss the similarities and differences in diagnostic criteria between substance and non-substance addictions. First, several diagnostic criteria for substance addiction are introduced, focusing on widely recognized diagnostic criteria, with a comparison of their similarities and differences. Second, we outline the diagnostic criteria for several non-substance addictions, including gambling disorder, Internet addiction, food addiction, and hypersexual disorder. It is observed that both substance and non-substance addictions share many common symptoms. However, while the proposed diagnostic criteria for many non-substance addictions are currently useful for assessing the prevalence of these disorders, there is still limited validation for these criteria. Finally, we address the value of animal models in addiction research. While current animal models for studying gambling do not fully meet the established diagnostic criteria and cannot be considered valid models for gambling disorder, we introduce evolving animal models that closely resemble the diagnostic criteria for substance addiction. We also discuss two classic paradigms (i.e., self-administration and conditioned place preference) in substance addiction research. By utilizing these models, we aim to enhance the validation of animal models for gambling disorders.