Dog dementia

Canine cognitive dysfunction, often called dog dementia: the published checklists, the stages, the treatments with trial data and how to get your nights back.

• How to Calm a Dog With Dementia at Night: What Has Trial Data and What Is a Tip

  To calm a dog with dementia at night, rule out pain and a full bladder, then use a fixed evening routine, a night light and a late walk. Selegiline is the only FDA-approved drug, and its best-known result (77.2% of 641 dogs improved, Vet Ther, 2001) had no control group. If nights stay broken, see your vet.

• Dog Dementia Signs: The DISHAA Checklist, Item by Item

  Dog dementia (canine cognitive dysfunction) shows up as changes in seven areas known as DISHAA: disorientation, social interaction, sleep, house soiling, learning and memory, activity and anxiety. In one study, 28% of dogs aged 11 to 12 had signs in at least one area (Neilson, 2001). If signs persist, book a vet exam, since pain and sensory loss look alike.

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