Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome is an age related decline in cognitive abilities that affects a dog’s behavior. Watching their cherished family pet grow old is heartbreaking for dog owners. However, senile behaviors should not be simply chalked up to old age. Although age related, CDS is not a part of normal aging. Researchers believe it may be caused by physical and chemical changes in the brain.
Signs of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
The dog with CDS will begin to display gradual changes in personality and habits or lose some functions.
Confusion – The dog who has been a part of the household for years may seem disoriented, wander lost in a familiar yard, get stuck in corners, or just sit and stare at the wall. Sometimes he gets stuck under or behind furniture. He may even seem not to recognize family.
Unresponsive – The cherished family member who used to have such a bubbly personality may walk away while being petted or fail to respond to his name. He may seem disinterested in things that used to cause great excitement such as the arrival home of his owner or getting his leash for a walk.
Loss of Housetraining Habits – A dog who has always been fastidious with bathroom habits may forget his housetraining. He may wander aimlessly outside and then make a mess upon returning inside. He may even soil the furniture or his bed.
Sleep and Activity Changes – A dog with CDS may show changes in sleep patterns. He may sleep longer periods or more deeply yet may pace restlessly in the dark of night.
Incidence of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
CDS is common in older dogs. According to information on the Pfizer Animal Health site, studies and surveys indicate that almost half of dogs 8 years or older, and 62% of dogs aged 11 to 16, show one or more signs of CCDS.
Diagnosing Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
The symptoms of CDS can be caused by many other things so it is important to get a proper diagnosis. Vision loss, hearing loss, urinary tract problems, arthritis, diabetes, anemia, pain and many other medical issues can be confused with CDS. Occasionally there are concurrent illnesses. The veterinarian will ask for a detailed history of behavior as well as conduct a physical exam, a neuro exam, and lab tests. Just as Alzheimers in humans, CDS is largely diagnosed by ruling out other illnesses. This illness typically comes on gradually and is not usually defined by only one sign.
Help for Dogs with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
Confusion can bring about loneliness and fear in old dogs and extra affection may soothe them. A confused dog should never be punished. Doggy diapers or tiled floors will help with loss of housetraining problems.
Disoriented dogs should not be isolated but confining them to safe areas will prevent them from getting lost or injured.
At present, there is no cure for CCD but a drug called Anipryl has been approved by the FDA for control of symptoms. It is available by prescription and can be given in tablet form with food. Response to treatment varies in individual dogs but, according to David E. Hammett DVM, most patients were reported by owners to have improved within two weeks to two months of starting the medication.
Joy Butler - Writer, retired lab tech, mom, and animal lover with over 20 years' experience rescuing, kenneling, training and showing dogs.
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