Understanding Dog Dementia: Behavioral Changes in Senior Dogs

Written by: Dr. Mavi Graves, Caring Pathways Veterinarian

I was recently at a euthanasia appointment for a beautiful, tiny Shiba Inu named Timmy. The family had rescued Timmy about five years ago after learning he had been a sire in a puppy mill and had spent most of his life in a cage.

Timmy had always been a little fearful after being rescued, but his new family created a peaceful sanctuary with other Shiba Inu siblings who welcomed him warmly. Over time, he blossomed into a calm, trusting dog who had finally found his forever home.

As the years passed, though, his family began to notice subtle changes—confusion, anxious wandering, and even accidents in the house. His mom, Tamara, wiped away tears and said, “The worst part is Timmy is now acting afraid of my husband, Jim. Jim used to be Timmy’s favorite person, and now Timmy can’t even be in the same room as him.”

Stories like Timmy’s are common among families caring for senior pets. These behavioral changes can be confusing and heartbreaking. Often, they point to a condition called dog dementia, medically known as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD). Understanding this condition can help you support your beloved companion’s comfort and dignity during their senior years.

Why Behavioral Changes Matter

As our dogs grow older, it’s natural to see them slow down. Many families chalk this up to normal aging—but when behaviors shift, either subtly or dramatically, it’s often a sign that something deeper is happening.

Behavioral changes like restlessness, panting, or house soiling can be caused by dog dementia or by other medical conditions such as infections, arthritis, kidney or liver disease, or Cushing’s disease. Because these symptoms overlap, it’s important to speak with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis.

Senior pets should visit their veterinarian every six months to a year—or more frequently if they have ongoing health issues. If you’re seeing changes at home, bring a short video to your appointment, since dogs may not show the same behaviors in the clinic. Your veterinarian may recommend bloodwork or imaging before confirming a diagnosis of CCD.

What Is Dog Dementia (Canine Cognitive Dysfunction)?

Dog dementia, or Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), is a progressive brain condition that affects senior dogs. Much like Alzheimer’s disease in humans, it causes physical and chemical changes in the brain that impact memory, awareness, and learning.

Research shows that over 60% of dogs older than 11 years show at least one sign of cognitive decline. Yet many families assume these symptoms are just “old age.” Recognizing them early can help your dog stay comfortable longer.

Common Signs of Dog Dementia (CCD)

The acronym DISHAA can help you remember the main signs to watch for:

• Disorientation – Appears confused in familiar places, gets “stuck” in corners, or struggles to find the food bowl.

• Interaction Changes – Withdraws from family or becomes unusually clingy.

• Sleep-Wake Cycle Changes – Sleeps more during the day and becomes restless or vocal at night.

• House Soiling – Has accidents indoors despite being previously housetrained.

• Altered Activity Levels – Loses interest in toys or develops repetitive behaviors like pacing or licking.

• Anxiety – Appears fearful, restless, or agitated—especially in the evening (“sundowning”).

Remember: Subtle changes can appear slowly. Early detection gives you and your vet more options for comfort care and quality-of-life support.

How Dog Dementia Affects Quality of Life

Just like humans experiencing cognitive decline, dogs with CCD can feel anxious, confused, and afraid. Their familiar routines may suddenly feel foreign. They may wander, vocalize more, or appear lost, even in their own home.

These changes can be distressing for families who love them deeply. But with the right combination of comfort care, structure, and support, many dogs can enjoy meaningful, happy days despite their diagnosis.

How to Help a Dog with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction: Treatment and Management Options

There’s no cure for CCD (dog dementia), but many treatments can manage symptoms and improve daily comfort. Talk with your veterinarian about which options are best for your pet.

• Medications – Drugs like selegiline (Anipryl®) may improve cognitive function by increasing dopamine levels in the brain.

• Nutritional Support – Diets rich in antioxidants, Omega-3 fatty acids, and MCT oils (such as Hill’s b/d or Purina NeuroCare) support brain health.

• Supplements – SAM-e, phosphatidylserine, and melatonin may help depending on your dog’s symptoms.

• Environmental Enrichment – Keep routines consistent and engaging. Short walks, gentle sniffing games, or reviewing simple commands like “sit” can provide grounding and mental stimulation.

When Is It Time to Say Goodbye?

One of the hardest questions families face is: “How will I know when it’s time?”

With CCD, decline often happens gradually. There will be good days and bad days. Occasional accidents or restlessness may be manageable, but when anxiety, confusion, or distress become constant, both your pet’s and your family’s well-being can suffer.

Signs that quality of life may be diminishing include:

• Persistent distress or anxiety that can’t be soothed

• Inability to rest or get comfortable

• Loss of interest in interaction or favorite activities

• Frequent accidents or nighttime agitation

Keeping a good day/bad day journal or using a quality-of-life scale can provide clarity. When the bad days begin to outnumber the good, it may be time to consider a peaceful and loving goodbye.

Don’t Forget Our Feline Friends

Cognitive decline isn’t exclusive to dogs. Senior cats can also show confusion, nighttime vocalization, litter box changes, or social withdrawal. Though feline cognitive dysfunction is less recognized, it can be equally impactful and deserves compassionate care and support.

Compassionate Support with Caring Pathways

At Caring Pathways, we specialize in in-home comfort-focused care for dogs and cats. If you’re noticing changes in your senior pet’s behavior and aren’t sure what they mean, we’re here to help.

Our team provides:

• Teleadvice consultations for guidance and reassurance

• In-home Comfort Care Assessments to evaluate your pet’s quality of life

• Gentle, peaceful euthanasia in the comfort of home when the time comes

You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Whether you’re navigating early signs of dog dementia or approaching the final chapter, our team will support you with compassion, expertise, and understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Dementia

What age do dogs typically develop dementia?
Dog dementia is most common after age 10, but some dogs show early symptoms as young as 8 years old. Every dog ages differently, so talk to your veterinarian if you notice behavioral changes.

Can dog dementia be cured?
Unfortunately, there’s no cure. However, early detection and supportive care can slow progression and improve your dog’s quality of life.

Is dog dementia painful?
The condition itself isn’t painful, but the anxiety and confusion it causes can be distressing. Many older dogs also have arthritis or other painful conditions that should be addressed alongside CCD.

How can I keep my dog comfortable at home?
Maintain a calm environment, consistent routines, and predictable lighting. Offer gentle interaction, accessible rest areas, and soft surfaces for comfort.

When should I reach out to Caring Pathways?
If your senior dog seems increasingly confused, restless, or anxious—or if you’re unsure how to assess their comfort—our team can help guide you through care options and next steps.