Title: Canine Dementia: Recognizing the Warning Signs in Older Dogs
Subtitle: Dog Whisperer Lorna Winter Shares Expert Insight on Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD)
Date: 10th September 2023
Author: Rob Waugh, Tech Correspondent for Dailymail.com
Dementia, often associated with memory issues in elderly humans, can also affect our beloved furry friends. Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) can manifest in dogs, particularly those over seven years old, as a sudden shift in behavior. Pet owners are urged to be aware of the warning signs and seek professional help if necessary.
Renowned dog whisperer Lorna Winter, co-founder of the dog-training app Zigzag, shed light on the topic, emphasizing that dementia in dogs differs from that in humans. Winter suggested that dietary changes, medications, and behavior therapies could help mitigate the symptoms. It is crucial for dog owners to consult professionals before taking any actions.
Being a dog owner comes with its own set of challenges throughout the various stages of a dog’s life, Winter noted. Dogs, like humans, experience changing moods, specific challenges, and different behaviors.
Winter listed several warning signs of CCD for dog owners to watch out for. Prolonged staring into space or at the floor, especially in older dogs, may indicate CCD. According to Winter, as dogs age, cognitive and sensory decline can naturally occur, causing them to slow down. These behaviors are not intentional disobedience but a part of the aging process.
Struggling with tasks that were previously easy for them is another potential indicator of dementia. For example, if a dog is unable to open a slightly ajar door or forgets how to back out of corners, it may be experiencing cognitive decline.
Changes in appetite can also be a sign of CCD. Dogs with dementia may lose interest in food or even forget to eat altogether. Conversely, some dogs might eat more than usual due to forgetting that they have already eaten. Monitoring eating habits can help identify any potential issues with an aging dog.
Restlessness and increased barking at night, particularly in senior dogs (seven years or older, depending on the breed), can be a warning sign of age-related dementia. Winter highlighted that barking at night in young dogs is typically associated with anxiety, but in older dogs, it suggests a possible cognitive dysfunction.
Indoor accidents are often observed in older dogs with dementia. Winter explained that this behavior is not deliberate but rather a consequence of the cognitive decline they are experiencing.
Spotting the warning signs of CCD can help the timely diagnosis and management of dementia in dogs. Seeking professional help is crucial for understanding the best approach to support these aging pets. With the right care and intervention, dogs with CCD can live comfortable and fulfilling lives.
As pet owners, it is essential to be attentive to changes in our dogs’ behavior and seek the guidance of trained professionals to ensure our furry friends receive the care they need as they age gracefully.
(Note: The content provided in this article is based on the statements made by Lorna Winter, a dog whisperer and expert in dog behavior. It is always recommended to consult with a veterinarian or qualified professional for accurate diagnosis and advice.)