Old dogs, like humans, are prone to age-related conditions like dementia. They might exhibit behavioral changes, signaling cognitive decline, also called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) or cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), which develops akin to memory loss in humans known as dog dementia.
What Is Dog Dementia?
According to East Bay Veterinary Clinic's website, dog dementia shares similar symptoms with Alzheimer's in humans and primarily affects memory, learning, and comprehension as a result of age-related changes in the dog's brain. Approximately 50% of dogs aged 11 and above display clinical signs of dementia, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe as the disease progresses.
These symptoms include disorientation and confusion in familiar surroundings, anxiety, forgetting routines and training commands, irritability, decreased interest in play, aimless wandering, and staring at walls or nothingness.
Furthermore, dogs with dementia may also exhibit slow learning of new tasks, reduced self-grooming, loss of appetite, and changes in their sleep cycle, such as night waking and daytime sleeping.
Proper diagnosis of dog dementia requires a veterinary examination since these symptoms could also be indicative of other illnesses. Veterinarians must conduct diagnostic tests to eliminate other potential conditions before confirming dementia in dogs.
They may use an MRI to make a final diagnosis or rule out other causes to determine if the observed symptoms are indeed due to CCD. If you notice any signs of dementia in your dog, seeking professional veterinary evaluation is essential to ensure proper identification and appropriate care.
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What Causes Dog Dementia?
The exact causes of dog dementia remain unclear, but similar age-related changes that affect humans are likely to play a role in dogs as well. While scientists continue to study CCD and its parallels to Alzheimer's, some factors have been identified.
PetMD reported that brain atrophy occurs as the dog ages. This can be particularly seen in the cerebral cortex, which is responsible for learning and memory, and in the cerebellum, which is responsible for coordination.
Additionally, dogs with CCD exhibit an accumulation of an abnormal protein called beta-amyloid in their brains, leading to reduced nerve signaling. Moreover, high levels of monoamine oxidase B (MAOB), a compound that degrades neurotransmitters involved in brain signaling, contribute to the development of CCD.
Furthermore, dogs with epilepsy and those leading sedentary lifestyles have been found to have a higher risk of developing CCD. Despite ongoing research, there is still much to learn about the specific mechanisms and risk factors contributing to CCD in dogs.
How To Help Dogs Suffering From Dementia
While there is no cure for dog dementia, treatments such as medication, diet adjustments, life enrichment, supplements, and surgery are available. It is essential to consult a vet promptly to explore the best treatment options for your elderly dog if you suspect CCD.
To support canines with CCD, veterinarians may recommend dietary supplements, increased exercise, interactive toys, and teaching new skills to aid memory and learning, as per WebMD.
Maintaining a consistent routine and pace during walks, avoiding sudden schedule changes, and remaining patient when dealing with symptoms is essential. Keeping the home layout unchanged, providing a tidy environment, and ensuring food and water bowls remain in the same place can reduce stress for dogs with CCD.
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