Pet therapist: Can dogs get Alzheimer’s disease?

Rebecca Ledger, Special to The Sun 

Pet therapist: Can dogs get Alzheimer&#8217;s disease?

Owners report a range of Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome symptoms, which can vary from day to day. Some appear disorientated, for example, the dog may get lost in familiar places, even in their own homes.

Handout / Files


It surprises many pet owners to learn that dogs as young as seven years old can develop behavioural and neurological changes that are akin to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. Unlike physical signs of aging, which typically hit the large breeds first, dogs of all sizes are susceptible to age-related behaviour problems.

So, how can you tell if your senior dog suffers from what scientists now term canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?

Owners report a range of symptoms, which vary from dog to dog, and from day to day. Some appear disorientated, for example, the dog may get lost in familiar places, even in their own homes. Their interactions with people and other animals change, often becoming more withdrawn, less playful and occasionally more aggressive. Some dogs sleep excessively, or least popular, wake their owners up throughout the night. And, while you can still teach old dogs new tricks, deterioration in learning ability and memory loss can also been seen.

CDS dogs are referred to behaviour therapists most frequently because of personality changes, especially increases in fears, phobias and anxiety. Owners often describe how their dogs flinch and startle more than before, become frantic when left alone, and become more sensitive to noise, such as thunderstorms and fireworks.

So, what can you do if you notice these signs in your aging dog?

First off, take your pet to your veterinarian to have a physical examination. They will want to check for any underlying disease that could be causing these symptoms. If CDS is still suspected, treatment options include food supplements, medications and rehabilitation … yes, the good news is that the progression of CDS can be slowed down, and even partly reversed in many dogs.

Specialist “brain diets” rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially DHA and omega 3s, have been clinically proven to help rejuvenate CDS animals. Furthermore, intervention works best when it is started in adult dogs that are not yet symptomatic. Just like us it seems, middle-aged dogs need their salmon oil. Anti-aging supplements, available through your veterinarian, can also be highly beneficial. And, in cases where your dog becomes a perpetual worrier, anti-anxiety medications can help.

Last but not least, exercise and mental stimulation are low hanging fruit. CDS cannot be cured, but there are many effective strategies available to help your pet live a longer, happier and more engaged life.


