As we age, certain parts of the body start to deteriorate including the brain. The same is true for our dogs. Dementia in senior dogs is a cognitive issue also known as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) that can severely impact his or her quality of life. The team at Union Lake Veterinary Hospital created this guide to help you spot signs of dementia in senior dogs so you can get your canine companion some help to combat this disorder:
Dementia in Senior Dogs
Dementia, otherwise known as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), is a progressive condition, which means it continuously gets worse. The condition affects a dog’s personality and behavior and can lead to the following:
- Disorientation: This can include difficulty navigating parts of the house that were once very familiar, getting stuck in corners, or having trouble finding the door.
- Confusion: If your dog is suddenly having trouble recognizing certain people or places, it could be a sign of early dementia.
- Changes in sleep patterns: Some dogs with dementia sleep more during the day and are awake at various times throughout the night.
- More frequent barking or howling: This often occurs for no reason.
- Significant separation anxiety: Sometimes, dogs with dementia have a lot of difficulty being home alone and will not want to be away from you.
- Staring into space.
- Changes in behavior can make your dog more irritable or even aggressive.
- Increased accidents in the house: This is a side effect of forgetfulness associated with dementia.
- Changes in eating or drinking habits.
- Trouble learning new tasks.
Causes of Dementia in Senior Dogs
CCD is an aging disorder that develops from many changes in the brain as a dog ages. One of these changes impacts the neurons that send signals to other parts of the brain. Damage in the brain cells creates toxic proteins, which can lead to an increase in neuron death. All of this makes it more difficult to remember new information and will eventually affect your senior dog’s personality.
Treatment Options for Dementia in Senior Dogs
While there is no cure for dementia in senior dogs, there are treatment options that can help slow its progression. These treatments significantly slow down the disease’s side effects so you can hold onto the dog you know for longer. As with any condition, the earlier you can spot it, the better results you can expect. Some of these treatments include:
- Medication
- Supplements including vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, or S-adenosylmethionine
- Foods rich in fish oil or medium-chain triglycerides
- Mental and environmental stimulation, including puzzles and toys that require thought
As soon as you spot any signs of mental decline in your dog, it is important to schedule an appointment with your vet. The combination of medication, supplementation, diet, and lifestyle changes can help significantly slow the disease’s progression.
At Union Lake Veterinary Hospital, we feel privileged to offer care for animals throughout every stage of life. From the puppy to the senior years, we offer well-rounded treatment options to give your pets the best life. To learn more about our senior pet services or to schedule an appointment, please call (248) 363-1508.