What Are the Symptoms of Dementia in Dogs?

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

As the years go by, health issues tend to pile up, even in canines. Old age can bring a range of problems – some doggos have troubles with arthritis and limited mobility, while others suffer from cognitive decline and experience issues such as dementia. That’s right, even dogs can suffer from dementia, which is also known as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). This illness can bring about some troubling changes in your pet’s behavior, and it would be wise to be familiar with all the symptoms of dementia, especially if you are a senior dog owner. Let’s go over them and get familiar with the challenges of canine dementia.

As your pet reaches their golden years, some issues are bound to pop up, including dementia. Known as canine cognitive dysfunction, it has similar symptoms to Alzheimer's disease in humans. The main cause is the aging of the dog’s brain, which results in many troubling issues. Of course, CCD doesn’t happen to all old dogs. Latest studies revealed that it only happens to roughly 50% of dogs that are over 11 years old. Of course, if you own a senior doggo, it is wise to get to know the symptoms of dog dementia. Here are some of the most common ones:

  • Confusion and Disorientation:

As dementia sets in, your pet might seem suddenly disoriented and awfully confused. They could get lost in spaces that should be all too familiar to them (the house for example), or could just stand and stare blankly into space. 

  • Major Sleep Pattern Changes:

Dogs tend to have a solid sleep routine. But with dementia, this can suddenly change. They could experience alterations in their sleep-wake cycle, sleep a lot during the day, and become restless and sleepless throughout the entire night.

  • Loss of Interest:

Your dog, with dementia, could suddenly become a totally different pet. They could lose all interest in common interactions. They could have zero interest in playing with you or interacting with the family members. The same goes for interacting with other pets, or playing with toys - even if they were their favorites. 

  • Forgetting Housetraining:
ADVERTISEMENT

As dementia progresses, your pet can suddenly forget all that they had learned in the past. The usual routines can be gone, the house rules that they followed will be forgotten, and accidents could become common. You could find that your pet suddenly defecates indoors, seemingly forgetting that it is a no-no. You must be understanding of this and not punish your pet. Instead, arm yourself with patience and  a special odor and stain remover that can make cleaning quick and easy.  

  • Anxiety and Odd Behavior:

Dogs with dementia are anything but their old normal self. You may notice that your pet is wandering aimlessly around the house or in the park, or that they are pacing to and fro in small spaces. They could also develop anxiety and become louder than they were before.

It's important to note that these symptoms can also be indicative of other health issues, and a proper diagnosis should be made by a veterinarian. If you notice any changes in your dog's behavior or cognition, it's recommended to seek veterinary advice promptly. Early detection and intervention can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for dogs with dementia. Make sure that they get enough mental stimulation throughout their life, especially in their senior years.

ADVERTISEMENT

Special mental stimulation toys can help improve their cognitive abilities and reduce symptoms of dementia for a little bit. Ultimately, remember to be kind and understanding towards your old pooch in this trying time for them as that’s the best thing you can do to help them feel at ease and safe.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

New Jersey May Be The First State To Prohibit Cat Declawing

Pet cats are ''declawed'' so that they don''t destroy furniture or injure humans. But a new measure in New Jersey may soon make that common practice illegal.

6 Ways To Properly Clean Dog Ears

Some dogs need their ears cleaned regularly. Here are some important tips about how to properly clean dog ears, as well as some things you should never do.

Caspian Pond Turtle

The Caspian Pond Turtle is active and versatile. These turtles enjoy basking, but they will quickly dive into the water if they are frightened.

How Do I Know What’s the Best Dog for Me?

You fall in love with every dog you see. But when it comes to ownership, an important question to ask is ""What''s the best dog for me?""

Ibizan Hound

The Ibizan Hound can be traced as far back as 3400 BC in ancient Egypt. These hounds are hunters and athletic, as well as sweet and sensitive dogs.

RELIQ Mineral Shampoo For Dogs Review

Rub-a-dub – Look’s who’s back in the tub to test out RELIQ Mineral Shampoo For Dogs Who doesn’t like a day at the spa? Well, Oscar fo…

American Bobtail

Fun, playful, affectionate and endlessly interested in whatever their humans are doing, the American Bobtail cheerfully initiates games of fetch.

Pros and Cons of Having a Dog at College

Is it a good idea to get a dog while you''re at college? Before you decide, be sure to go over all the pro and cons to keeping a pooch while in school.

Schwyz Hound

Also known as the Schweizer Laufhund, the Schwyz hound is one of three Swiss hounds. This is a small hound used for hunting hare, fox, and roe deer.

Jackshund

The Jackshund (Jackweenie) is a designer dog created by crossing the Jack Russell Terrier with a Dachshund. This is an energetic dog with a sweet nature.

Best Dental Sticks for Dogs

Dental sticks for dogs help your pet maintain oral hygiene while enjoying a yummy treat at the same time. Here is our selection of the best ones!

Papuan King Parrot

Papuan King Parrot is not very loud and has a friendly, docile personality that makes him a great companion for seniors and singles.

How To Choose A Winter Coat For Your Dog Like A Canadian Skijorer

Kevin Roberts lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. To say it gets cold there in the winter is an understatement. It’s called “Winterpeg” fo…

Types of Dogs You’ll Meet on the Campground

Summer time - when city dogs pack up their families for some adventures in the woods. Here''s the definitive list of every dog you will meet on the campground.

Rocky Mountain Horse

The Rocky Mountain horse is known for its gentle attitude. It has a natural ambling gait of four beats. It works well with riders of all experience levels.