As dogs age, just like humans, they can develop canine senile dementia or canine cognitive dysfunction. But it is not inevitable. What are the symptoms of senility? How to improve the comfort of an old dog?
Senility in dogs is a disease similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. It does not affect the life span of our pet. However, it significantly reduces the quality of their daily life and that of their owners.
The aging process in dogs
Not all dogs are created equal when it comes to aging. Depending on their breed, but especially their size, their lifespan varies almost twice. Very large dogs such as Great Danes can expect to live for 8 years, while a Yorkshire Terrier will live for 15 years.
And this distinction is important when it comes to considering a dog senior because it is when your dog enters this stage that the first signs of aging appear. Small dogs will be seniors from 9 years old, medium-sized dogs from 8 years old and very large dogs from 6 years old.
An aging dog will have a graying coat, will be less dynamic and will have difficulty seeing, smelling and hearing than before. Sometimes he becomes incontinent. These symptoms are progressive, generally spread over several months or even several years.
Senile dog: what are the symptoms?
Some signs of senility in dogs can be confused with normal signs of old age, such as loss of energy or incontinence. However, other symptoms should alert you.
An older dog who seems to have lost understanding of simple commands that he knows very well, who seems disoriented in familiar places, who seems anxious and/or aggressive in the face of situations and people around him, is a dog who is potentially exhibiting canine cognitive impairment dysfunction. These symptoms may be accompanied by loss of appetite and depression.
Consult your veterinarian without further delay, only he or she will be able to make a formal diagnosis and rule out other pathologies.
How to improve the comfort and daily life of your senile dog?
Living with a dog with senile dementia is not impossible. Your veterinarian will advise you on the best course of action.
Senility in dogs is generally treated with appropriate medication and a change in their diet. Make sure you have your dog in a safe environment for him and save him from stressful situations. Keep drawing him out and intellectually stimulating, but always gently. And above all, be patient. There is no point in scolding him, senility means he is not aware of his actions and raising his voice would be counterproductive.