Doggy-dementia, also known as “dogzheimers,” is a real disorder that affects senior dogs. It can cause distress for both you and your pup, similar to dementia in humans. However, there are ways to help your dog navigate through life with dementia. In this article, we will explore signs of dementia in dogs and discuss ways to mitigate its effects.
Signs Your Pooch May Have Dementia:
As dogs age, the chances of them developing dementia increase. While some forgetfulness is normal, if your dog’s senior moments become intense, they may be suffering from dementia. Look out for sleep-wake cycle disturbances, anxiety, aggression, incontinence, lethargy, inappropriate vocalizations, disorientation, and social withdrawal.
Body Language:
Pay attention to your dog’s body language as it can indicate dementia. Signs like growling, staring, barking, whining, shaking, cowering, howling, sniffing, and weakness may suggest dementia.
Other Signs:
Combined with the above signs, changes in vision and hearing, pacing, repetitive behaviors, stress, elimination disorders, disorientation, sleep-wake cycle issues, worry, confusion, increased aggression, and staring at walls may indicate dementia.
The History of Doggy Dementia:
Dementia in dogs was often misunderstood in the past, leading to misconceptions about aging dogs. However, researchers and vets now recognize that behavioral changes in senior dogs are often due to dementia. Treatment involves managing behaviors and environments, maintaining routines, and pet-proofing the house.
The Science of Dementia:
Dementia is not a specific disease but a collection of symptoms caused by brain disorders. It reduces cognitive ability by interfering with communication between brain cells. Different types of dementia are associated with specific types of brain cell damage, age, and plaque buildup in the brain.
How to Train Your Pooch to Deal With Dementia:
Training and preparation can help reduce stress and anxiety for dogs with dementia. Consider using calming music, going for long walks, and trying aromatherapy. Continuing crate training can make the dog feel safe and secure. In some cases, anti-anxiety medication may be necessary, but make sure your dog is comfortable with taking pills or liquid medicine.
In conclusion, while doggy dementia can be a distressing disorder for both you and your pup, there are ways to mitigate its effects and ensure your dog’s quality of life continues. By recognizing the signs and symptoms, understanding the science behind dementia, and implementing training and preparation techniques, you can help your dog navigate through life smoothly and happily.
Tips & Things to Know
1️⃣ Look out for signs of doggy dementia, such as sleep-wake disturbances, aggression, incontinence, lethargy, and disorientation. These signs can help you identify if your dog is suffering from dementia and seek appropriate care.
2️⃣ Pay attention to your dog’s body language, including growling, staring, barking, whining, shaking, cowering, howling, sniffing, and weakness. These cues can indicate that your dog is experiencing dementia-related symptoms.
3️⃣ Consider training and preparing your dog to deal with dementia by using calming techniques like soothing music, long walks, and aromatherapy. Continuing crate training and exploring anti-anxiety medication options can also help alleviate stress and anxiety associated with the disease.
Frequently Asked Questions, Answered ✅
1. What are some signs and symptoms of doggy dementia?
– Sleep-wake cycle disturbances, generalized anxiety, aggression, incontinence, lethargy, inappropriate vocalizations, disorientation, and decreased social interactions.
2. What are some body language cues that may indicate a dog has dementia?
– Growling, staring, barking, whining, shaking, cowering, howling, sniffing, and weakness.
3. What other signs should I look out for to determine if my dog has dementia?
– Changes in vision and hearing, pacing and repetitive behaviors, stress, elimination disorders, disorientation and getting lost, sleep-wake cycle issues, worry or confusion, anxiety, increased aggression, and staring at walls.
4. What is the history of doggy dementia?
– Doggy dementia was previously misunderstood and thought to be behavioral changes associated with old age. It was later recognized as cognitive dysfunction and referred to as pre-senility syndrome.
5. How can I train my dog to cope with dementia?
– Consider soothing techniques such as calming music, long walks, and aromatherapy. Continuing crate training can help with feelings of safety and prevent wandering. Anti-anxiety medication may also be an option, and methods for administering medication should be taught to the dog.
