Questions
- Dementia in Dogs
- Signs of Dementia in Dogs
- How is Dementia in Dogs Diagnosed?
- Dog Dementia Life Expectancy Stages
- Caring for a Dog with Dementia
Getting older is tough on us all, but as a pet parent, watching your best friend grow into an elderly dog can be a difficult and emotional time. As your dog gets older, they can start to experience more frequent health issues and may develop behavioural changes associated with dog dementia.
Dementia in dogs is a common degenerative disease that is being recognized more frequently as our dogs live longer. It’s reported that dementia affects around 28% of dogs over 11 years of age, and up to 68% of dogs over 15 years of age. Recognising when your dog has dementia is challenging, but there are some key signs that can help with early diagnosis and ensure that your pup continues to enjoy their senior years.
Dementia in Dogs
Dog dementia, also known as canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome, results from a decline in brain function, leading to changes in behaviour and demeanour. It’s similar to Alzheimer’s in humans and all dogs are at risk, with no specific breed or sex predilections.
The early stages of dementia in dogs can be subtle and differ for every pet.
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Can Dementia in Dogs Be Treated?
The neurological changes that occur in dog dementia are not curable and will continue to progress throughout your dog's life. As pet parents ourselves, we understand that it can be distressing to receive this type of diagnosis, however it’s important to remember that with the right support, your older pup can still have a great quality of life. Early intervention is recommended, so chat with your vet as soon as you notice signs.
Signs of Dementia in Dogs
Signs of dementia appear gradually over time and can be hard to recognize in the early stages, as every dog will be different and have a unique combination of symptoms. Many pet parents describe their dog as being more ‘senile,’ or present to their vet worried about hearing loss, blindness, or disobedience.
If you are unsure if your dog is suffering from dementia it can be helpful to use a tool called DISHAAL. This helps characterize signs of dementia and will help you talk to your veterinarian about what you can do.
- Disorientation - Gets lost at home, stuck in corners, staring.
- Interactions - Changes in social interaction, aggression, or fear, becoming withdrawn.
- Sleep/Wake cycles - Vocalising and restless at night, sleeping all-day.
- House soiling - Forgets toilet training, house soiling.
- Activity - Repetitive behaviours, wandering, circling, reduction in play.
- Anxiety - Fearful, reactive, and/or separation anxiety.
- Learning - Forgets learned commands, slower responses to usual tasks.
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How is Dementia in Dogs Diagnosed?
If you have noticed two or more of the above behaviours in your dog it may be time to book an appointment with your veterinarian. Although there are no specific tests available to diagnose dementia, it can be easily recognized by your vet by using your clinic history and a physical exam. They may recommend a general geriatric health screen to ensure there are no significant health issues causing their change in behaviour. This can include blood tests and diagnostic imaging.
Dog Dementia Life Expectancy Stages
Dementia in dogs is a progressive disease, meaning it will worsen with time. Clinical signs are often described as mild, moderate, or severe, and these stages can help you understand your dog's condition and how far along they may be.
It can be helpful to regularly fill out the DISHAAL survey as it will enable you to be objective about your pet's behaviour.
How Long Do Dogs Live with Dementia
The life expectancy of a dog with dementia varies depending on the age of diagnosis, the severity of symptoms, the speed of progression, and concurrent diseases.
Most dogs are well into their senior years when diagnosed and time is likely to be limited. Monitoring your dog's quality of life will help you decide when it might be time to talk about euthanasia.
Caring for a Dog with Dementia
There are many ways that we can modify the environment, routine, diet, and exercise to help support our dogs in this stage of life.
Modify their Environment.
Dogs with dementia have trouble with spatial awareness and direction, making familiar environments hazardous. Make sure to block off unsafe areas such as stairs, balconies, garages, and any platforms. Ensuring furniture stays in the same place will also help your dog navigate familiar pathways through the house and garden as their condition deteriorates.
Help with Toileting.
Regression in toileting behaviour is a common sign of severe dementia. Scheduling extra toilet breaks can help minimise accidents indoors, particularly before bedtime. Provide pet grass or puppy pads for toileting inside, especially if they may be alone for a period of time.
Keep a Routine.
Dogs with dementia respond well to routine and you may find they can get upset or agitated if dinner is even a little late! Keep feeding and walk times on a regular schedule so they know what is coming. Automatic feeders can be helpful for busy families and shift workers to help keep their routine. Â
Enrichment.
Food puzzles and chew toys are great for dogs with dementia as it helps them utilise their sense of smell and keeps them occupied and focused for a period of time. Upgrade their bedding to thick, memory foam mattresses to help with their achy joints.
Diet and Medication.
Senior dog diets land those targeted to dogs with dementia will ensure your pup has optimal health. Medications are available and can alleviate some symptoms – speak to your vet about the best medication for your canine.
Dementia in dogs is a common disorder affecting many senior dogs. Although it results in changes to your pup’s behaviour and personality, with the right support they can still enjoy a good quality of life well into their golden years. To support the changes in their routine, find everything you need from our dog and puppy range, in-store and online.