Mental sharpness in dogs can decline over time. Some suffer from a serious condition called canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome. CDS is a neurodegenerative disease like Alzheimer’s disease in people and is more common than originally suspected. What is important for dog owners and veterinary professionals is to recognize changes that aren’t part of normal aging.
Source: Morris Animal Foundation, October 14, 2024. Link. Many signs are associated with CCD, but the acronym DISHAA summarizes the most common ones:
- D – Disorientation
- I – Change in social interactions, such as increased fear, withdrawal, aggression
- S – Change in sleep/wake cycle, such as pacing, vocalization, restlessness
- H – House soiling, learning and memory changes
- A – Change in activity (loss of interest in some activities, restlessness, pacing)
- A – Increased anxiety