It’s never easy to watch your furry friend age. Their joints might hurt, giving them trouble when they walk, their eyes might start to fail, and they might even lose some of their mental faculties. Some dogs may even exhibit signs of dementia, otherwise known as canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS). Here’s what to know about canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome:

What is Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?

Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome is much like Alzheimer’s disease in humans. It’s characterized by the aging of your dog’s brain. As a dog’s brain degenerates, it can lead to declining cognitive function. A toxic substance called beta-amyloid protein can accumulate in the brain, leading to brain damage.

Other changes in the brain include a reduced blood flow and damage to neurons. When neurons are damaged, it becomes difficult for the brain to process information, remember things, and send signals to the body.

What are the Symptoms of CDS?

In order to diagnose CDS, veterinarians look for these symptoms, referred to as DISHAAL.

• Disorientation
• Interaction with pets and people
• Sleep and wake cycles
• House soiling
• Activity alterations
• Anxiety
• Learning and memory

As a dog owner, there are certain signs and symptoms you might recognize in your dog. Things like walking into a wall, sleeping more during the day, but waking at night, staring at the wall, potty training regression, not recognizing familiar people or pets, and odd eating patterns.

In order to diagnose CDS, veterinarians rely on the owner’s observations of symptoms and physical exam results. Oftentimes, blood tests are run in order to rule out other causes.

Treatment of CDS

Unfortunately, there is no cure for CDS. However, there are a few treatments available to help manage symptoms in your dog. These treatments can include dietary supplements and changes, medicine, and cognitive exercises.

Dietary Changes and Supplements

Changing your dog’s diet as well as adding dietary supplements may be beneficial to treating CDS. A diet consisting of high antioxidants and fatty acids may help your dog’s cognitive function and in general, is a great way to care for a senior dog.

Your vet may also prescribe supplements that are rich in antioxidants and a type of fat called medium-chain triglycerides. This type of triglyceride is important as it gives energy to your dog’s brain.

Medicines

Your vet may also recommend certain medications to try for your dog. Certain MAO inhibitors can help neurons better communicate with one another. This can help protect the brain from further damage.

Cognitive Exercises

There are certain exercises and activities to do with your dogs that can help with their cognitive function. Introducing your dog to new toys and commands is a great way to help their cognitive abilities. Even trying scent work is a low-key exercise that can help with their cognitive health.

What is the Prognosis of CDS?

Since there is no cure, CDS will progress. But if it’s caught early enough and is treated, your dog can live a happy and full life. Unfortunately, dogs with more severe cases generally have worse outcomes.

This is just an overview of what to know about canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome. If you begin to see signs of CDS in your dog, don’t just attribute it to behaviors of old age. Call your veterinarian and get your dog evaluated for CDS. With the right treatment, your dog may be able to live a very full life as a senior dog!