Cognitive decline in dogs, often referred to as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), is similar to dementia in humans.
It typically begins to occur between 7 to 10 years of age, although many factors can influence the onset - including genetics, breed, medical history, life events and individual circumstances.
Studies suggest that around 14% - 35% of dogs aged 8 years and older are affected to some degree by loss of normal brain functioning.
Common signs include:
1. Disorientation:
Affected dogs may get lost in familiar places, appear confused or get stuck in corners.
2. Changes in behaviour:
This can include:
• altered interactions with family members or other pets
• increased anxiety
• aggression
• withdrawal
• mood changes
• odd or out of character responses or activities
3. Altered Sleep-Wake Cycles:
A common change is sleeping more during the day with being more awake and restless at night.
4. House Soiling:
Inappropriate toileting may occur as previously learned training becomes forgotten.
5. Decline in Activity:
There is often a loss of interest in playing and an increase in aimless wandering.
6. Anxiousness:
Heightened anxiety or the development of new fears or phobias is common, such as a dread of being left alone, or sensitivity to noises which preciously had no effect.
7. Learning and Memory Impairment:
Recall, the ability to focus and mental awareness frequently decline.
This may lead to a difficulty responding to well known commands and / or forgetting previous training / responses / behaviour and habits.
Early recognition and intervention can help manage signs and improve the quality of life for affected dogs.
Two measures which can have significant positive impact are supplementation with PEA and pure organic, virgin coconut oil.
PEA has been shown to improve memory and cognitive performance in humans and animals.
Coconut oil supplies and readily available source of extra energy to the brain which has been shown to improve mental awareness and function in older dogs.
In addition to PEA's positive impact on brain health, it is also neuroprotective, and is therefore, an invaluable addition any pet's natural health care regime - especially if you want to keep more of the dog or cat you know for longer.