As your dog ages, you may notice at one point a loss of their mental sharpness. Brain aging in dogs can be detected early if you pay attention to small changes in your dog’s behaviors and habits. There is a many similarities between a dog with cognitive dysfunction and Alzheimer’s in humans.
One of the first signs of a deterioration in your dog is the disinterest they show in their responses. If your dog always greeted you at the door and is now just laying around with out acknowledging your arrival. Not chasing the cat anymore. It will be obvious that something is wrong. Other signs, the dog that wanders in circles, going nowhere. Or, standing and staring into a corner for minutes on end. They may forget all training that was second nature to them for most of their lives. The behavioral changes may be followed by sleeping and eating changes.
Before a veterinarian can determine that cognitive dysfunction is the diagnosis, he will most likely do extensive tests to rule out other possible reasons.
But, as medications have advanced for humans, the same can be said for canine treatments for this condition. Antioxidants has shown to improve an older dog’s memory. Also, a drug called Anipryl has shown to help many senior dogs. You can discuss your available options with your veterinarian. He will suggest the best medications and supplements for your dog’s condition.
On your part, stimulate and interact with your senior dog on a daily basis to help keep his mind working. The correlation to humans is the recommendation that seniors do puzzles and read to keep their minds sharp. In that same way, you can help your pet. Take them for a walk, someplace to explore, a car ride – a food puzzle.
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