Is Your Dog Just Getting Older Or Is It Something More Serious?

You’ve started noticing some unusual behaviour in your senior dog. Maybe they’re staring at walls, wandering, or seeming confused in places they’ve known for years. They might wake you during the night, have the occasional indoor accident, or just seem... not quite themselves anymore.

It’s easy to assume these are just signs of ageing. But what if they’re not?

Many pet owners mistake early signs of a serious condition, Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CDS) for natural ageing. CDS is a progressive brain disorder affecting older dogs, with symptoms that resemble dementia in humans. It’s more than forgetfulness; it involves physical and chemical changes in the brain, leading to behavioural shifts, memory loss, and disorientation.

CDS is surprisingly common: around 14% of dogs over 8 show signs, yet fewer than 2% are diagnosed. Why? Because it’s often dismissed as “getting older.” But recognising the condition early can drastically improve your dog’s quality of life.

While symptoms vary from dog to dog, here are some common signs to look out for:

• Disorientation: Appearing lost in familiar places, getting stuck in corners, or staring blankly into space.
• Social changes: Becoming unusually clingy, withdrawn, or irritable.
• Sleep disturbances: Restlessness, pacing, or vocalising at night and sleeping more during the day.
• Loss of house training: Accidents indoors despite years of reliable toileting habits.
• Aimless activity: Pacing, circling, or wandering without purpose.
• Anxiety or agitation: Increased vocalising, pacing, or signs of distress with no clear cause.

If you’re seeing any combination of these behaviours, it could be more than just ageing.

Because these symptoms often overlap with other conditions like arthritis, hearing or vision loss, or organ disease, diagnosing CDS involves ruling out other causes.

Your vet will typically:

• Take a full medical history
• Conduct a comprehensive physical exam
• Order blood tests or other diagnostics if needed

CDS is what we call a diagnosis of exclusion, and it requires teamwork between you and your vet to piece together the full picture.

While there’s no cure for CDS, there are several ways to slow its progression and improve your dog’s comfort and quality of life. Early intervention is key.

Here’s how you can help:

• Nutritional Support: Diets enriched with omega-3s, antioxidants, and MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides) can support brain health.
• Structured Routine: Keeping daily activities consistent helps reduce confusion.
• Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, light training, and gentle play can help keep the brain active.
• Environmental Changes: Keep the home layout familiar, use night lights, and block off tricky areas.
• Regular Vet Visits: Ongoing check-ups help monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.

If you’re worried about your dog, here’s how to start:

• Take notes - Document any unusual behaviours, when they occur, and how often.
• Book a vet appointment - Share your observations for a clearer diagnosis.
• Ask about diet options - Your vet can recommend food tailored to support cognitive health.
• Be patient and supportive - Your dog may feel anxious or unsure, and your calm presence matters more than ever.

CDS doesn’t have to define your dog’s senior years. With the right support, your dog can continue to live a happy, comfortable, and connected life.

Book a consultation with your vet:  The sooner CDS is identified, the sooner you can start managing it.

Track changes at home: Your notes can help shape an accurate diagnosis and care plan.

Support their brain health: Special diets and routines make a big difference.

Take the first step and reach out to our team today.