Dementia in Senior Dogs

Understanding Dementia (Canine Cognitive Dysfunction) in Your Senior Dog

Is your dog displaying low interest and seemingly ignoring you when you call his / her name?  Please pay attention to our aging pet’s changing behavior as studies indicate that dementia affects a wide variety of breeds but seems to be more prominent in small breeds and toys.  Dementia, also known as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction, affects a dog’s learning, memory, and comprehension as he or she ages.  It is very similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans.  

The symptoms of dementia are progressive and will worsen over time.  You may start to notice odd behavioral changes that point to a neurological issue.  Any dog displaying symptoms of dementia should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible to rule out other health issues.  This will ensure that property treatment and management can be started for your pet’s comfort and well-being.  

Other Health Issues to Rule Out When Considering Dementia in Dogs:

• Blindness Deafness

• Urinary tract infection Kidney disease

• Arthritis Tumors

• Other Infection or Inflammation of the brain

Although a definitive cause for Dementia in dogs is not known, there are a couple of developments in the brain that may be a cause for the disease so early diagnosis and treatment may help alleviate some of the symptoms.  Please consult your veterinarian for more information.  

There is also no way to prevent this dementia.  However, providing mental stimulation can help keep your dog’s mind sharp for many years.  

Symptoms of Canine Dementia:

• Getting stuck in corners of the room

• Confusion or disorientation

• Wandering / restlessness

• Regression in house training / accidents

• Does not respond when called by name

• Loss of interest in playing 

Mentally Stimulating Activities for your Dog’s Mental Health:

• Engage your dog in puzzle toys

• Teach him / her new tricks or commands

• Socialize your dog with other people and dogs

• Get your dog out for walks in the neighborhood or park

• Take him / her to pet friendly stores to walk, sniff, and see people.  

• Consult your veterinarian for dietary changes or supplements 

Anxiety in Dogs with Dementia

Please know that confusion that is caused by dementia may lead to anxiety and stress for your pet.  This will compound throughout the day while he/ she is left at home alone.  Your pet may shake, whine, and become uncomfortable. Your pet’s sleep pattern may be thrown off as well resulting in tossing and turning, vocalization, and standing on guard through the night.  Your pet may also become less interested in interaction with you and display a lack of enthusiasm. 

 How Can You Treat Dogs with Dementia?

Your veterinarian will conduct a full examination ranging from bloodwork to possible X-rays, CT scan, or an MRI.  There are medications that can be prescribed to help with the progression of the disease. 

One medication is Selegiline which will help alleviate some symptoms of cognitive dysfunction in certain dogs.  This drug prolongs the dopamine activity in the brain.  Some other medications that may be prescribed are ephedrine, opioids, phenylpropanolamine, amitraz, or antidepressants. 

Your veterinarian may also recommend supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, SAMe, medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), antioxidants, Denamarin, silybin, vitamin E, Cholodin, Solliquin, and melatonin.  These supplements have proved to helpful improving cognitive function and the quality of life for some dogs.  

For more information you can search Canine Cognitive Dysfunction or Canine Dementia and ask your veterinarian.