What is dementia in dogs?
Dementia (or Alzheimer's) is a well-known disease in older people. However, only very few people know that our dogs can also develop dementia and as a result may show symptoms such as disorientation and memory loss. In veterinary medicine, this disease is referred to as cognitive dysfunction syndrome and is more widespread than you might think.
It is an incurable disease of the nervous system, in which there is death of nerve cells and changes in brain structures due to the accumulation of various proteins. The disease, similar to humans, is accompanied by impairment of memory and recall ability, attention, behavior and perception.
According to studies, up to 28% of 11-12-year-old dogs and up to 68% of 15-16-year-old dogs suffer from cognitive dysfunction syndrome. So it is quite possible that your senior dog's disorientation can be explained by this disease.
How does dementia manifest in dogs?
It is not always easy to distinguish dementia from the normal signs of →old age weakness.
So pay close attention to your dog and watch out for the following frequently occurring symptoms:
Disorientation
Getting lost in their own home
Aimless wandering
Staring into space or at objects
Standing still behind furniture
Going to the wrong door when they want to go outside
Walking in the wrong direction to the food bowl
Changes in behavior
Less or increased need for cuddles and attention
Reduced joy when their owner comes home
Changed behavior with familiar people or animals
Sudden separation anxiety, even if this was never an issue when younger
Licking objects, people, or themselves
Increased appetite or also
loss of appetite
Anxiety
Increased vocalization (whining, barking)
Changed sleep pattern
Sleeping more during the day
Being awake at night
Restlessness and increased panting in the evening
Sudden startling from sleep
Forgetfulness
Forgetting simple commands like "sit" or "down"
Forgetting house training
Not recognizing familiar people and animals
If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your elderly dog, you should seek veterinary advice. Some of these signs can also be symptoms of other diseases such as diabetes mellitus, Cushing's disease, or arthritis, and can only be ruled out by a veterinary examination .
How can a diagnosis be made?
Unfortunately, there is no specific test that can reliably diagnose dementia in dogs. Instead, a detailed history of your dog and the exclusion of other organic diseases is required.
So pay close attention to any changes you notice in your dog. Your vet will use this information and a clinical examination as well as possible further tests to make a diagnosis.
Is there a treatment for dementia?
As already mentioned, dementia in dogs, just like in humans, is an incurable disease. However, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
Medications containing the active ingredient propentofylline improve blood flow to the brain and can have a positive effect on dementia. Your vet can advise you whether a medication treatment is appropriate for your senior dog .
Also get veterinary advice regarding feeding. Antioxidants as well as milk thistle and omega-3 fatty acids can be helpful for dogs with dementia. Our →"Vet" Joint Fit wet food supports joint metabolism, provides essential omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin E as a natural antioxidant.
What else can I do for my dog with dementia?
Life with a dog with dementia is of course no longer the same as with a healthy young dog. Have patience with your senior dog, even if, for example, you have to clean up urine puddles more often.
With small brain games you can help your dog stay mentally stimulated.
Walks in the sunlight can help support a regular sleep-wake cycle. Disorientation doesn't just happen at home, but also outside. If you let your dog off the leash during walks, keep a close eye on him so he doesn't get lost. A GPS tracker can also be useful - so you always know where your dog is.
If your dog seeks more cuddles and wants to snuggle, spoil him especially and enjoy the precious time with your beloved companion. If your dog suddenly wants to cuddle less due to dementia, give your dog the space and peace he needs.
