Owners of older dogs may notice changes in their dog’s behaviour, such as slowing down, or being less interested in activities they used to like. Often these changes are put down to just ageing, but in many cases they can be a sign of canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). This condition shares some similarities with the human Alzheimer’s disease. Sometimes changes can be slow and progressive, in other cases they might be quick. 

Does your dog show any of these signs? If so they may have CCD.

• Sleeping a lot during the day and being restless at night

• Constant whining or barking

• Not recognising familiar faces

• Appear to ‘forget’ what they are doing or where they are going

• Getting lost in familiar places

• Having accidents inside when they previously wouldn’t

• Loss of interest in activities or treats they used to enjoy

• Getting ‘stuck’ in corners or appearing disoriented

• Abrupt changes in behaviour - a once friendly dog may growl or snap.

• Tremors or shaking

Why does this happen?

Like Alzheimer’s, the exact cause of CCD is not completely understood. In older dogs it appears that the neurons in the brain that transmit electrical signals, stop functioning in some areas. In addition, there is excess production of oxidants, a substance which can further damage the brain. 

How do we diagnose CCD? 

First your vet will need to rule out other causes of your dog’s symptoms, such as arthritis or other joint issues, heart or lung disease, or a urinary problem. If all other causes are ruled out, then it is likely the behaviour changes are due to CCD.

How do we manage CCD?

As CCD is a progressive issue, the focus is on managing the changes and helping the pet to live more easily. 

The most important part of managing CCD is making sure your pet’s environment is set up to help them. Making sure there is a clear path for your pet to get to the right area to toilet is very helpful. If your pet can avoid having to do stairs or navigating obstacles, this can reduce accidents. 

Providing lots of interaction and engagement with your pet can also be helpful. Keeping your older dog mentally active by doing simple training sessions and socialising with people and other dogs can be helpful for some dogs. Food dispensing toys can get dogs using their skills while you are not with them.

Adaptil is a pheromone spray which is used to help calm down anxious and stressed dogs. It can be sprayed onto a bandana that the dog can wear, onto bedding, or used as a diffuser into the environment.

What can I give my dog to help with CCD?

Diets or supplements high in antioxidants can help to prevent further damage to the brain. Diets such as Hills B/D (brain diet) can be helpful in maintaining brain health. Supplements such as PAW tryptophan chews can also help to promote brain function.

In some cases, medication can be used. Vivitonin is medication that can be used to help improve blood flow to the brain which can maintain brain function. Selegiline is a behavioural drug that can be helpful, though it may take a few months to have an effect.

While CCD is a progressive disease, with management and treatment we can help our senior pets to live comfortably and happily.