Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome or CCDS is a progressive disease that affects 14-35% of dogs over the age of 8 and can most easily be compared to Alzheimer’s in people.
While there is no proven way to prevent CCDS in dogs, providing mental stimulation, physical exercise, routine and maintaining a lean body weight has been known to improve cognitive outcomes.
So, what does this mean for our aging pets and how will you know if it is “just” old age or cognitive decline?
Lucky for us, there are many resources and tools available for pet owners to use at home to recognize early signs of CCDS. https://www.purinainstitute.com/sites/default/files/2024-02/DISHAA-Assessment-Tool.pdf
In 2003, veterinary behaviorist Dr. Gary Landsberg developed guidelines for the DISHAA framework. DISHAA is an acronym that lists six behaviors most seen in dogs with CCDS.
Disorientation: Dogs may go to the wrong side of doors, stare into space, or fail to recognize familiar people or places
Impaired social interactions: Previously social dogs may become withdrawn or, conversely, overly clingy and attention-seeking
Sleep disturbances: Nighttime restlessness, pacing or barking, and daytime sleeping are common
House soiling, learning and memory deficits: Previously house-trained dogs may have indoor accidents; commands once learned may be forgotten
Activity changes: Dogs may show reduced playfulness or increased aimless pacing and repetitive behaviors
Anxiety and fear: New fears, noise sensitivity, or general restlessness may develop
(AVMA, n.d.)
Once an owner is noticing changes in at least one category and other underlying medical concerns have been addressed, achieving relief for CCDS can be as simple as environmental management, routine and supplementation.
- Block off unsafe areas in the house, such as stairways.
- Utilize rug runners to add traction to slippery surfaces
- Provide a safe and quiet place to rest and do not force them to interact
- Pay attention to hearing loss. Speak as you approach and stomp your foot so they know you are near
- Add nightlights to bedrooms and hallways
- Ask us about a sedative to use before bedtime if you are noticing signs of sleep disturbances
- Add extra potty breaks throughout the day and before bedtime
- Avoid moving furniture
- Take on “sniff” walks and provide mental enrichment such as puzzle feeders if walks are too difficult
- Most seniors will not be shy about keeping you on schedule for meals and walk times- do your best to stick with their schedule.
There are a few medications that can be utilized in more severe cases of CCDS but, for those who are in early onset, supplementation is the best place to start. Research has shown that feeding a diet high in MCTs (Medium Chain Triglycerides), Omega Fatty Acids and Antioxidants (Vitamins E & C, Selenium, Alpha-Lipoic Acid) can improve brain function, as well as overall health. (VIN, n.d.)
At Hillside Animal Hospital, the diets we most often recommend is Purina Bright Minds, Purina Prescription Diet Neurocare, Hills Prescription Diet b/d, or Royal Canin Veterinary Canine Mature Consult. For those not able or interested in changing diets, supplements include Senilife (phosphatidylserine, gingko biloba, resveratrol, vitamin E and B6), Nordic Naturals Omega Fatty Acids, and Dr. Buzbys Brain Boost MCT oil. Most of these products are available on our online pharmacy https://hillsideanimalhospital.covetruspharmacy.com/ (VIN, n.d.)
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction can take a toll on both the pet and pet parent. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have noticed any of these changes in your senior pet or have any questions about CCDS recommendations.
– Meagan, RVT