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What you need to know about dog dementia

Updated: Mar 13, 2023

Dogs are considered a member of the family for many people, and when they start to experience symptoms associated with dog dementia, it can be difficult to cope. Dog dementia, also known as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) or canine cognitive decline (CCD), is a disease that affects dogs' brains causing changes in their behaviour. In this blog post, we will answer some commonly asked questions about dog dementia. We will discuss what the disease is, how it works, and some ways you can help your dog live a fuller life despite their condition.




What is canine cognitive dysfunction?

Canine cognitive dysfunction is a degenerative disease that affects a dog's brain. It's associated with amyloid deposits, glucose hypometabolism, synaptic impairment and neuronal inflammation/oxidative stress. All of these changes lead to a deterioration in cognitive function, which is why it's often referred to as dog dementia.

What is dog dementia? Dog dementia is just another name for canine cognitive dysfunction. As mentioned above, is a neurological condition that affects cognitive function in dogs. It is similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans and can cause changes in behaviour. What are the signs of dog dementia? Signs of dog dementia include disorientation, sleep disturbance, loss of interest in toys or other activities, and changes in social interaction. As the disease progresses, symptoms may become more severe and include: aggression, wandering aimlessly, urinating or defecating in the house, and pacing. CCD is a progressive disease, which means that it will get worse over time. What causes dog dementia? The exact cause of CCD is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is believed that CCD is linked to changes in the brain, including the loss of ner


ve cells, changes in neuronal metabolism and energy production, inflammation and changes in brain chemistry. What can I do to help my dog with canine cognitive dysfunction? There is no cure for CCD, but there are ways to help your dog manage their symptoms and live a fuller life. One of the things you can do for your dog is to provide them with mental and physical enrichment. This can include things like: - Providing them with toys that stimulate their mind, such as puzzle toys - Taking them on walks or runs to provide them with physical exercise - Giving them plenty of opportunities to socialize with other dogs and people - Training them on a regular basis - Make sure they have a consistent routine Are medium-chain fatty acids good for dogs with dementia? Medium-chain fatty acids, high in decanoic acid (C10) are good for dogs with dementia. These are a type of fat that is easily absorbed by the body and can help to improve brain function.


Medium-chain fatty acid oils that are higher in decanoic acid are thought to be better for dogs with CCD than standard medium-chain fatty acid oils due to the additional benefits of decanoic acid such as reduced oxidative stress and maximisation of mitochondria.

What do I do if my dog has dementia? If you think your dog may be showing signs of CCD, it is important to talk to your veterinarian. They can help you determine if your dog has the disease and create a treatment plan that is right for them. While there is no cure for CCD, there are ways to help your dog manage their symptoms and live a fuller life. Key Takeaways: - Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is a disease that affects dogs' brains, causing changes in their behaviour.


- The most common symptoms of CCD include disorientation, confusion, changes in sleeping patterns, decreased activity levels, loss of interest in food and toys, and increased anxiety. - medium chain fatty acids, high in decanoic acid are better for dogs with CCD than standard medium-chain fatty acid oils due to the additional benefits of decanoic acid such as reduced oxidative stress and maximisation of mitochondria. Do you have any questions about dog dementia? Let us know in the comments below.


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