Top 5 tips for owners that have dogs with dementia

Although canine cognitive dysfunction pathophysiologically is similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans, it is frequently referred to as dog dementia. It can be heartbreaking to see your companion of many years progressively decline, and although there is no cure for this disease, fortunately, there are some things that you can do to help your dog cope with this condition. This blog post will discuss the top 5 tips for owners of dogs with dementia.

1 Make sure your dog has a comfortable and quiet place to rest.

Dogs with cognitive dysfunction can become easily agitated and restless, so having a calm and comfortable place to relax is crucial. Try to avoid overly stimulating environments, and be sure to keep noise levels low.

2 Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

Exercise is essential for all dogs but can benefit those with cognitive dysfunction. Mental stimulation can also be beneficial, and there are several dog puzzles and games available that can help keep your dog's mind active. Mental stimulation may be as simple as teaching your old dog a new trick or perhaps just practising the ones they already know.

3 Avoid blue light in the evenings

Blue light has been shown to have a negative effect on circadian rhythm, and this is especially true for those with cognitive dysfunction. So be sure to avoid any screens in the evening, and if possible, try to get your dog outside for a walk in the late afternoon to help them wind down for the night.

4 Be patient and understanding.

Dogs with cognitive decline can often become confused and disoriented, and it's essential to be patient with them. Avoid correcting them too harshly, and offer encouragement and praise when they do something right. It's also important to remember that their condition is not their fault.

5 Make sure they have a balanced diet and supplement with medium-chain triglycerides.

A balanced diet is essential for all dogs, but it's especially crucial for those with cognitive dysfunction. Research has shown that dogs fed unbalanced diets are at a higher risk of developing cognitive dysfunction. There are many pre-formulated age-appropriate diets available for senior dogs that can serve as the foundation of their diet. Many owners like to add in some lean cooked meats (no bones!) and some vegetables for variety and to help diversify their gut microbiome.

Supplementing their food with medium-chain triglycerides has also been beneficial and reduces the signs of cognitive decline within one month of starting. You should use a dog-specific medium-chain triglyceride oil or pre-formulated food. It should be noted that the best effects are achieved with twice-daily administration.

We hope these tips have been helpful and that you'll be able to provide a better quality of life for your dog despite their cognitive decline. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to speak with your veterinarian.

This blog post was brought to you by Canine Neurology. We are dedicated to helping owners provide the best possible care for their dogs.

Thank you for reading!

- The Canine Neurology Team