Dementia in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes and Course

Dementia is an illness that can affect not only humans but also our dogs. It involves a progressive decline of mental faculties such as memory, orientation and the ability to learn. Dementia in dogs is also known in the professional world as cognitive dysfunction and can severely impair the four-legged friend's behaviour and quality of life. I would like to help you to caringly interpret the first signs.

In this article you will learn how to recognise dementia in dogs and what the actual causes are. Together we look at how the course develops and what you can do for your dog to slow the dementia down in the best case. It is scientifically proven that in dogs, just as in humans, a loss of mental faculties can occur. This finding is often known as canine Alzheimer's. Some symptoms are similar to those in humans, but in dogs they are unfortunately usually dismissed as a mere sign of ageing and only recognised at a late stage. This also explains why only few dogs with dementia are treated properly at an early stage.

Dementia in dogs and the cognitive dysfunction syndrome

In dogs, too, the cognitive dysfunction syndrome only appears at an advanced age. In the brain, damage to proteins and fats can occur, resulting in the death of nerve cells. Unfortunately, in old age the body's own ability to correct these types of damage independently is significantly reduced. The first symptoms of age-related dementia can appear in large dogs from around 6 years of age and in small dogs from around 10 years of age.

The question of life expectancy cannot be answered across the board. On the one hand it depends on the current stage, on the other hand the course varies greatly from dog to dog. In the most favourable case, your dog may still be at your side for years before the illness catches up with it. Statistically, one in four dogs develops dementia, but you can already do quite a lot for your animal beforehand and during the illness.

Dogs possess complex abilities such as thinking, recognising and learning. Comparing, judging and the power of imagination are part of this too. Dogs also have a limited capacity for abstract thought and a spatial imagination. In addition, there is the processing of prior knowledge. Since the distinction between natural ageing and a dementia illness is sometimes not clear-cut, the following points provide caring guidance.

10 typical signs of beginning dementia

• Disorientation: the dog gets lost more often, even in familiar surroundings
• Forgetfulness: the dog forgets familiar places or routines repeated daily
• Disoriented eating behaviour: the dog loses interest or simply forgets to eat
• Reduced response to familiar stimuli such as familiar noises or your voice
• Reduced interaction: the dog withdraws noticeably and plays less
• Changes in behaviour such as aggressive or suddenly anxious conduct
• Reduced ability to learn new commands or small tricks
• Altered sleep patterns: the dog is restless and active at night
• Daytime tiredness: the dog sleeps a lot during the day and is awake at night
• Involuntary passing of urine and faeces due to a loss of control

The causes of dementia in dogs

The exact cause of dementia in dogs is not yet fully clarified scientifically. It is assumed, however, that a number of factors can contribute to it. These include in particular the following aspects.

• Old age as the main factor, since dementia is a typical age-related illness
• Genetics and breed affiliation, for example in Golden Retrievers and Beagles
• Earlier injuries and illnesses of the brain
• Certain medications that can promote dementia as a side effect
• Environmental factors and toxins such as lead or arsenic

What can I do for my dog with dementia

Unfortunately, there is no complete cure for dementia in dogs, but there are some things one can do to caringly slow the illness down. A balanced diet can help to protect the dog's brain. Plenty of exercise keeps the dog physically and mentally fit. Positive reinforcement can help to strengthen self-esteem. Regular veterinary examinations help to recognise the dementia at an early stage. A vitamin B complex is also extremely important for brain function, as it can help to alleviate the symptoms and slow the course.

The benefits of a targeted nutritional supply

• Contributes to strengthening and regenerating the entire nervous system
• Supports with nerve inflammation and with signal transmission
• Also helpful with incontinence and with physical trembling
• Supports with states of exhaustion and general weakness
• Strengthens and revitalises your dog's entire organism

This article serves as general information and by no means replaces a visit to a veterinary practice. If you suspect dementia in your dog, you should always seek professional advice first.