It often manifests in behavioural symptoms such as: disorientation, wall staring, change in social and environmental interactions, and often a loss of learned behaviours such as where to toilet or sleep.  Barking or pacing at night is also common and can indicate a disruption to the dog’s sleep cycles as a result of changes within the brain.

Cognitive dysfunction occurs due to shrinking of part of the brain and enlargement of the fluid-filled cavities within the brain. Anxiety often increases with age as there is usually a decreased ability to cope with stress. This is made worse by decreased hearing, vision and mobility, all inevitable signs of aging.

Things to help dogs suffering from Doggie Dementia include:

1) Modifying their environment with ramps, steps and nonslip flooring to compensate for sight, hearing and physical limitations

2) Ensuring a predictable routine to help reduce stress  

3) If possible, continue exercise but make it shorter and more frequent

4) Short training sessions can be incorporated to help brain function such as short play sessions or obedience reinforcement

5) Physical therapy such as passive range of motion exercises, acupuncture, hydrotherapy or massage

Nutritional supplements which can help with brain function are; antioxidants and essential fatty acids. Your veterinarian may also be able to suggest a number of medications that can help with the cognitive dysfunction and address other concurrent medical conditions. Treatment is more successful if it is started earlier.