Dogs aged 11 to 16 are most likely to develop Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), sort of the doggy version of Alzheimer's Disease. CCD is a medical condition in which a starch-like waxy protein called beta amyloid collects in the brain and causes behavior changes.
Affected dogs become disoriented, wander, cry and pace, and can become lost in the house when out of your sight. Their behavior can change from confident to frightened, and the awake/sleep cycles may turn upside down. Dogs can forget house training, how to find the door or be unable to tell you when they need to "go." And most heartbreaking of all, senile dogs lose interest in petting, ignore their beloved owners or furry friends, and might not recognize you.
Treating Doggy Senility
While there's no cure for CCD, the drug Anipryl (selegiline hydrochloride) is FDA-approved to treat cognitive dysfunction in dogs. According to veterinary researchers, about one third of treated dogs return to normal, another one third are somewhat helped and the final one third aren't helped at all. There also are special diets designed to help turn back the clock on canine senility. Sadly, even improved dogs eventually revert and again develop senility signs.
7 Tips To Keep Canine Brains Youthful
A longer life is not necessarily a better life, especially if your dog no longer recognizes you. But there are ways to help your dog stay connected with the world and ward off signs of CCD, simply by exercising his brain.
Brain function studies in dogs proved that problem-solving activities kept them sharp, connected to the world around them, and even extended their lifespan. Just as with people, canine mental and physical stimulation drastically improves your dog's cognitive function. "Use it or lose it" applies to dogs just as it does to humans. Here are 10 tips to keep King mentally spry into his old age.
Don't delay. Keep dogs both mentally and physically spry from puppyhood on. That helps prevent or at least slow brain aging changes.
Make Play a Daily Treat. Interactive games keep your dog engaged with you and reward him for responding. Toys don't need to be expensive, either. Old socks become tug toys and used tennis balls work great for fetch. They're even more attractive if old and they smell like the owner.
Slim Pudgy Pooches. Overweight dogs have trouble exercising and avoid moving which can allow joints-and brains-to rust. Ask your vet for a slimming program that's safe for your overweight canine.
Adopt Another Pet. Proper introductions of a playful younger cat or dog can serve as a furry fountain of youth to an old-fogey dog. Even if he's irked at the young whippersnapper, keeping Junior-Pet in line can keep your dog sharp.
Practice Commands. Just because he's old doesn't mean he can't perform. Practice the pleasures that make King's heart leap for joy-for obedience champions, put him through his paces. If he has trouble, adjust the F
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