Hey, guys, Happy Friday.

This week we are going to shift gears a bit and talk about something more serious.

We’re going to talk about Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CCDS) today.

What’s that?

Basically, it’s Alzheimer’s, but in dogs. Many dog lovers aren’t aware dogs can experience this and are upset, frustrated, and confused when their dogs begin showing signs.

Usually, it’s not seen in dogs until they’re 11 years or older. But, all dogs are different, and some dogs could experience this sooner.

Luckily, if you notice the signs of CCDS early you can help your dog feel better and sometimes slow down the process.

Before we go on, I want to add in a little disclaimer. If you think your dog could potentially be experiencing this, both a behaviorist (like myself) and your veterinarian would work together. Your veterinarian should be the first point of contact to take care of the medical side of things before moving onto the behavioral side.

So, what helps?

One of the best things you can do for a dog who has CCDS is provide him with a ton of mental stimulation. Find some food puzzles he likes. Add some simple training exercises to her routine. Regular exercise that isn’t physically demanding is also recommended. This could be a brief walk around the block a couple times per day or a stroll through the woods.

Your veterinarian may recommend a specific diet, supplement, or medical to help your dog as well if needed.

What are the signs of CCDS?

Most dogs wander around your house if they get bored or want to sniff around. Or, if they want to play. My dog (Saint Bernard) is 1-year-old and she is basically like a vacuum wandering around behind my children hoping they might drop a piece of food — she eats a lot.

But, if your dog is older, and she appears to be wandering aimlessly, this could be an early sign of CCDS. As the condition progresses, your dog might start walking and then forget where she is or where she was going.

If she’s starting to feel lost, it can help to maintain a routine. A strict routine. Keeping a regular schedule can minimize your dog’s anxiety and confusion. And, don’t change the layout of your house.

You might also start to notice changes in his personality. He may show behaviors you have never noticed in him before including anxiety and fear. Since he’s anxious and scared, signs of aggression could appear.

He might not show you the love he once did. It’s not because he doesn’t love you, he’s just struggling with his condition.

Part of the change could also include peeing in the house even though she is ‘house-trained.’ This can become overwhelming for us at pet parents, but it’s important not to scold her for doing this. She may be peeing in the house because she can’t move as well, because she’s confused, or she just doesn’t remember where to go.

Crying is a common sign of CCDS, too. All dogs cry if they want outside, they’re bored, or they want attention. This isn’t a definitive sign. But it’s something to keep in mind. Dogs who are experiencing CCDS may pace back and forth while whining. Or, may wake up randomly crying.

Next sign. Staring at nothing. If your dog is ‘staring into space,’ this could be a sign of CCDS. You might notice her sitting down and just looking at nothing.

It’s important to note that each of these behaviors can be part of other things, like boredom, loneliness, or other health issues. But, each of these should be kept in mind as your dog ages.

By understanding the signs of CCDS, you can adjust how you care for your dog to make this easier on both of you. Work with your veterinarian and your canine behaviorist to determine what is best for your individual dog. And, don’t hesitate to ask questions.

It hurts to watch your dog age and see her mental health decline, but together we can make this time easier.

Contacting Me

I’m so happy all of you are so engaged with my columns each week. I receive many, many e-mails, phone calls, and messages. I answer each question in the order they’re received. I do my best to answer everyone within 48 hours, but sometimes there are so many questions it may take me longer. Thank you for baring with me.

Don’t forget, I do have an online Facebook Group attached to my professional Facebook page (www.facebook.com/specialistamberdrake ) where you can ask questions and consult with other canine professionals and dog lovers. Share your warm stories, share your painful stories, share your photographs, and be a part of a dog-loving community.

And, as always, you’re welcome to contact me at AmberLDrake@dogbehaviorblog.org.

That’s all I have for you today.

Until next time!