Do Dogs Get Dementia? A Complete Guide to Managing Dementia in Old Dog

• Disorientation – Your dog may appear lost in familiar places or get stuck in corners. They might stare blankly at walls or have difficulty navigating around furniture.
• Changes in Sleep Patterns – An old dog with dementia often experience disrupted sleep-wake cycles, leading to restlessness at night and excessive sleeping during the day.
• Altered Interactions – Your old dog may show less interest in attention or petting, seem anxious around familiar people, or become unusually clingy.
• House-Training Issues – A previously well-trained old dog might start having accidents indoors or forget to signal when they need to go outside.
• Anxiety and Restlessness – Increased pacing, vocalization, or showing signs of distress, especially during the evening hours (known as “sundowning”).

• Age-Related Brain Changes – The accumulation of harmful proteins in the brain leads to the death of brain cells and reduced cognitive function.
• Oxidative Stress – Free radical damage over time contributes to brain aging and cognitive decline in an old dog.
• Genetic Factors – Some breeds may be more predisposed to developing cognitive dysfunction as they age.
• Environmental Factors – Lack of mental stimulation and poor nutrition throughout life may increase the risk of cognitive decline.

• Medical History Review – Your vet will gather detailed information about changes in behavior, daily routines, and when symptoms first appeared.
• Physical Examination – A complete physical exam helps identify any underlying health issues that could be contributing to behavioral changes.
• Behavioral Assessment – Your vet will evaluate your dog’s responses to various stimuli and assess their cognitive function through specific tests.
• Laboratory Testing – Blood work and urinalysis help rule out other medical conditions that might mimic dementia symptoms.

Before confirming a diagnosis of dementia, veterinarians must exclude other potential causes of behavioral changes. Several conditions can present similar symptoms to cognitive dysfunction.

• Sensory Decline – Vision or hearing loss can cause disorientation and anxiety in old dogs.
• Pain Conditions – Arthritis or other painful conditions can affect sleep patterns and cause behavioral changes.
• Urinary Tract Issues – Infections or incontinence can lead to house-training accidents.
• Brain Tumors – Masses in the brain can cause behavioral changes similar to dementia.
• Thyroid Disorders – Hormonal imbalances can affect behavior and energy levels.

• DISHAA Assessment – Evaluates six key behavioral categories: Disorientation, Interactions, Sleep/Wake cycles, House soiling, Activity levels, and Anxiety.
• Canine Cognitive Rating Scale – A standardized test that helps veterinarians assess the severity of cognitive dysfunction.
• Memory and Learning Tests – Simple exercises to evaluate your dog’s ability to remember commands and learn new tasks.

Certain medications can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of cognitive decline. Selegiline (Anipryl) is FDA-approved for treating cognitive dysfunction in dogs and works by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. Your veterinarian may also recommend other medications to address specific symptoms like anxiety or sleep disturbances.

Special diets enriched with antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and medium-chain triglycerides can help support brain function. These therapeutic diets, along with supplements like S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe), may improve cognitive function and slow the progression of dementia symptoms in your old dog.

Creating a consistent and safe environment is crucial for dogs with cognitive dysfunction. This includes maintaining regular routines, using night lights to reduce confusion after dark, and providing easy access to food, water, and bathroom areas. Environmental enrichment through appropriate toys and activities can also help maintain mental stimulation.

Proper care and management of dementia symptoms can significantly enhance your dog’s daily experiences. Regular routines and appropriate environmental modifications help reduce stress and anxiety, allowing your old dog to feel more secure and comfortable in their surroundings. When we maintain consistent care practices, many dogs show improved engagement with family members and continue to enjoy their favorite activities.

With proper support and care strategies, many dogs with cognitive dysfunction maintain their independence longer than they would without intervention. Thoughtful modifications to their environment and routine help them navigate daily activities more successfully. This independence not only benefits their physical health but also supports their emotional well-being.

Caring for an old dog with dementia often strengthens the human-animal bond. Through the process of providing specialized care, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of your dog’s needs and communication signals. This enhanced connection can make the caregiving experience more rewarding for both you and your pet.

When we properly manage cognitive dysfunction, we often see improvements in other aspects of health as well. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and maintaining daily routines can help support your dog’s overall physical condition. This comprehensive approach to care helps maintain muscle strength, joint flexibility, and proper weight management.