The signs of dementia in dogs can vary greatly, but they all share a common characteristic – a decline in quality of life. Changes in behavior, an overall decrease in energy, and anxiety are all signs of dementia. You can spot these symptoms by observing your dog’s behavior. Here are a few signs to look for. Read on to learn more. Listed below are some of the most common signs of dementia in dogs.
Disorientation
While it is very common for senior dogs to have moments of disorientation, it is very different for a dog who has senior dementia. Senior moments are often caused by distraction. You might blame yourself for not paying attention, but a dog with senior dementia cannot figure out how to get out of a corner. Seeing your dog struggle to find a way out of a corner can be emotionally and mentally painful.
Signs of disorientation include pacing, forgetting where they are, and getting stuck in corners. You might notice your dog staring blankly at the wall or standing on the wrong side of the door when it is opened. Your pet may also lose its sense of time, making it difficult to follow verbal commands and interact with others. Your vet may suggest therapy aimed at helping your dog with this behavior.
Anxiety
Anxiety, when your dog develops senior cognitive impairment, is a common side effect of this condition. While it is possible to make some medical changes for your dog, other methods may be necessary. Changing the environment in which your dog lives and is available for your pet may not be enough to alleviate anxiety. If your dog is prone to anxiety, you may want to consult a veterinary behaviorist or veterinarian for some advice.
The first step in diagnosing a possible case of senior dementia is to understand your dog’s normal routines. If they’ve never changed much, these changes could be indicative of a more severe condition. If they’ve changed overnight, for example, a change in sleep patterns is a sure sign. Dementia-affected dogs often wake up more during the night than they used to. As the condition progresses, your dog may lose his/her way home and will begin to house-soil.
Loss of control
As your dog ages, it can develop signs of senior dementia. Whether your dog is showing signs of dementia or just having senior moments, it is important to keep an eye on his behavior. When you notice that your dog isn’t acting like himself, make an appointment with a vet for a proper assessment. While some symptoms can be chalked up to old age or distraction, others are indicative of dementia.
You may notice that your dog is increasingly nervous. He might pace throughout the night or bark excessively, or even be afraid of certain noises like thunder. You may also notice that your dog suddenly stops eating or starts barking at nothing. It may even forget where it left the water bowl or where the doggie door is. If you notice that your dog is suddenly agitated, seek help from a veterinarian immediately.
Changes in behavior
As your dog gets older, he or she may experience changes in his or her behavior. Some dogs with dementia pace around the house and bark excessively. Others will cease to play and may even eat less than normal. These changes in behavior can be confusing to you, so it is important to monitor your dog for them. Changes in behavior may be a sign that your dog is developing senior dementia, and you should seek veterinary care immediately if you notice any of them.
While older dogs may not show symptoms of senior dementia, they may experience behavioral changes that indicate a cognitive decline. Dementia in dogs, also known as canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), affects memory, personality, activity level, and sleep patterns. It affects about 25% of senior dogs and up to six8% of dogs over the age of 15-16. While there is no cure for dementia, you can take steps to alleviate the effects of the disease by monitoring your dog and giving him the best care possible.
Treatment options
Pharmaceutical agents are the most common form of treatment for senior canine dementia. One of these drugs, Anipryl, is approved by the FDA for dogs with CCD. Because of potential medicinal interactions, this drug is only available on prescription from a veterinarian. However, it can help slow the progress of the disease and improve cognitive functioning. Your veterinarian will conduct tests before prescribing Anipryl. Here are some of the other treatment options for senior dogs with cognitive dysfunction:
Besides medication, your veterinarian may also suggest supplements and behavior modification training to help your senior dog live a longer, healthier life. While veterinary behaviorists cannot cure or reverse dementia, their help can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life. As long as you are patient, a senior dog can lead a happy, full, and productive life. A veterinarian can help you with any questions you have regarding your dog’s care.
