It’s no secret that dogs make great pets. No matter their breed, size, or age, they quickly become beloved members of your family. However, just like any other member of your family, they need consistent care and attention—not only when they’re energetic puppies, but also as they grow older and transition into their senior years as aging can bring about a variety of health challenges. Of those, some are easier to spot than others. That may make you wonder if dogs can get Dementia?
Sadly, yes dogs can get dementia, which is also known as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). These changes can be subtle at first, but over time, they can significantly affect your dog’s quality of life and yours as well. While it can be difficult as a pet parent knowing your dog is going through this, understanding the signs and knowing how to support your dog can make a meaningful difference as they navigate this challenging stage of life.
To learn more about the signs and what you can do to help your dog if they do have dementia, see below.
What is dog dementia?
If you’re not familiar with dog dementia, it is a degenerative brain disease seen mostly in senior dogs. This condition occurs when a type of protein called beta-amyloid builds up in their brain, interfering with communication between brain cells. As a result, the brain cells can no longer effectively “talk” to one another. Additionally, blood flow in the brain becomes impaired, leading to reduced oxygen and nutrient delivery. Over time, some of the brain cells begin to die, causing changes in behavior, memory, and overall mental function.
How to tell if your dog has dementia
In addition to becoming disoriented—even in a home they’ve lived in their entire lives—dogs with dementia are more likely to have accidents indoors, despite being previously well housetrained. Other common symptoms of canine cognitive dysfunction include:
- Waking up and aimlessly wandering in the middle of the night
- Increased irritability or aggression, especially when disturbed
- Failing to recognize familiar family members
- Getting lost in seemingly simple places, like the backyard or hallway
- Forgetting basic obedience commands they once knew
- Standing in corners or rooms and appearing confused or unable to find their way out
If you notice the signs of dementia in your senior dog I recommend you see your veterinarian as soon as possible. It is not something to take your dog to an emergency clinic for but when you see your regular veterinarian they may be able to treat her with a medication that will make her less confused and allow her to recognize her family, stop soiling the house, and return to her former life for several years to come.
Is there a cure for dog dementia?
There is no cure for dementia in dogs, but there is a lot you can do to keep your dogs life relatively normal for a long time. If you recognize these signs and symptoms though there are effective medications available from your veterinarian. There are also many things you can do at home.
What to do if your dog has dementia
Dementia can improve with medications, but sadly it will never go away. You also do have the option of treating your dog naturally, especially if drugs and veterinary care are not options. Here are some other things you can do to help you dog at home:
Switch to a high-quality, balanced diet
Your dog’s new diet should include a source of medium-chain triglycerides. If your dog has been eating the same dry food over his or her lifetime, they may have developed a deficiency that is contributing to the dementia and is now severe enough to cause clinical signs. That’s why you should change their diet to a balanced whole raw or cooked homemade diet.
Provide antioxidants in your dog’s diet
Dietary changes are important in dogs with dementia. Since antioxidants work against free radicals, they may be effective in preventing or slowing the progression of the confusion related to dementia. That’s why it’s a good idea to try giving your dog açai, blueberries, raspberries, acerola or other fresh sources of vitamin C and a source of vitamin E like blackberries. In one study of dogs given antioxidants and an improved environment, the antioxidants worked better in cases of dementia when dogs were also given a new routine with plenty of exercise.
Make sure to supplement omega fatty acids
Omega fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects and may decrease the symptoms of dementia. Many companies sell fish oil made from salmon, and that’s an excellent supplement to add on top of your pet’s dry food.
Take your dog for short and frequent walks
That sounds too easy, doesn’t it? However, regular walks can make a big difference for a dog showing signs of dementia. They don’t need to be long or strenuous, what matters most is the mental and sensory stimulation. Try taking your dog on a few short “sniff walks” each day. Let them take their time exploring scents, sounds and surroundings. These walks help keep their muscles active, engage their nose, and—most importantly—stimulate their brain.
Play new games and provide mental stimulation
No matter how well-trained your dog is, there are always new things they can learn—and this becomes especially important if your dog has dementia. Mental stimulation, like playing new games, can help keep their brain active and slow the progression of cognitive decline. There are many great books and resources on teaching new tricks and behaviors. When you find something your dog doesn’t know, use it as an opportunity to engage with them. Just remember, they may learn more slowly than before, so be patient, gentle and encouraging throughout the process.
Don’t make big changes
When your dog has been diagnosed with dementia, you should try to make things as stable as possible for them so he or she does not get confused. Do not change your dogs routine (like feeding time, walk time, etc.), and do not move the furniture around.
