Your loyal dog is getting older and his behavior is changing. He sometimes seems lost, no longer responds to his name, or forgets his habits. These signs are not simply age-related but could indicate canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome, often compared to Alzheimer's disease in humans. Nearly one in four dogs develops this neurological condition as they age. Let's find out together how to recognize it and help your pet maintain its quality of life.
Canine Alzheimer's, more precisely called cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), is a degenerative neurological disease affecting aging dogs. It is not just normal aging but a real brain disorder.
This condition is characterized by the accumulation of beta-amyloid and Tau proteins in the brain which impairs communication between neurons and leads to their progressive degeneration. This process leads to a deterioration in the dog's cognitive abilities, affecting memory, learning, perception, and attention.
From the age of 8 years, a dog is considered senior and may develop this disease. Giant breeds like the Great Dane are affected earlier (around 7 years) whereas small breeds like the Yorkshire Terrier may start to show signs around 11 years.
The exact causes of canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome are not yet fully elucidated. However, several factors contribute to its development:
Unlike simple senility, CDS is a progressive disease that deeply affects the dog's behavior and quality of life. It is important not to confuse normal aging signs with this specific neurological pathology.
Identifying the early signs of cognitive dysfunction syndrome is essential to intervene quickly. Symptoms can vary from dog to dog, but some are particularly revealing:
These changes don't all occur at once and can gradually appear. The key is to notice a clear difference from your dog's usual behavior.
The diagnosis of cognitive dysfunction syndrome is mainly based on the observation of symptoms and the exclusion of other medical causes that may explain these behavioral changes. During the consultation, the veterinarian:
There is no specific test that can definitively diagnose CDS. Therefore, the combination of behavioral symptoms, along with the exclusion of other medical causes, enables a diagnosis.
Unfortunately, many affected dogs are not diagnosed, depriving their owners of the opportunity to improve their quality of life.
While there is no curative treatment for canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome, several approaches can slow its progression and enhance your companion's comfort:
Treatment is based on a holistic approach combining medication, nutrition, environment adaptation, and appropriate cognitive stimulation.
Tips to remember! Facing canine Alzheimer's, your role is essential in maintaining your loyal companion's quality of life. Keep these key points in mind:
Main signs include disorientation in familiar places, sleep disturbances (nighttime agitation and daytime drowsiness), forgetting basic learned behaviors, sudden house soiling, unexplained mood changes, and losing interest in usually enjoyed activities.
Your dog may also seem not to recognize you anymore or stay frozen in unusual positions, like facing a wall.
Dogs with Alzheimer's often react with confusion and anxiety to their surroundings. They may become irritable or apathetic. Some develop repetitive behaviors like circling or barking for no reason.
Their reaction to usual stimuli changes: they may no longer respond to their name or petting. Each dog reacts differently, but all show some form of distress due to their loss of orientation.
In their final moments, an old dog usually shows a marked decrease in activity and appetite. They may seek isolation or instead stay constantly close to their owner. Their breathing may become irregular, and they may have difficulty moving.
Some dogs become particularly calm and detached, as if distancing themselves from the world around them. It's important to note that these behaviors could also be linked to pain or other illnesses, requiring a veterinary consultation to ensure their comfort.
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