Spotting signs of dementia in dogs

As dogs get older, they can face age-related health changes, just like we do. One condition that can affect senior dogs is Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), often referred to as canine dementia.

The early signs can be easy to miss because they often develop gradually and may be mistaken for a normal part of ageing. Recognising these changes early can help you understand what’s happening and support your dog in the best possible way.

CCD is most commonly seen in older dogs, often from around 8 years of age, although this can vary between breeds. One study found that around 15% of senior dogs showed noticeable signs of CCD.¹ There’s no single test for CCD. Instead, your vet will usually assess your dog’s behaviour while ruling out other possible causes.

In this guide, we’ll look at the early signs of canine dementia, how it may affect your dog and some simple ways to help them continue enjoying a good quality of life.

Symptoms of dementia in dogs

The signs of CCD can develop slowly, making them easy to overlook at first. Use the guide below to familiarise yourself with some of the common changes to look out for, then read on to learn more about each one.

These signs are not always signs of CCD. If your pet is experiencing any of these, it's always best to contact your vet, who can carry out an examination.

1. Your dog seems confused

Does your dog seem lost or confused in places they know well? Dogs with CCD can become disorientated in familiar surroundings or seem unsure about routines they’ve followed for years. These moments can be unsettling, so offering reassurance and helping them feel safe can make a real difference.

2. Your dog is displaying new aggressive behaviours

Has your dog become snappy or started growling in situations that never used to bother them? CCD can sometimes make dogs feel anxious or uncertain, which may affect the way they respond to people or other pets. Watching your dog’s body language can help you recognise when they’re feeling uncomfortable before a situation escalates.

3. Your dog seems withdrawn or anxious

If your usually sociable dog starts avoiding interaction or seems more anxious than normal, it could be another sign of cognitive change. Keeping their home environment calm, familiar and predictable can help them feel more relaxed.

4. Memory loss

Memory problems are one of the hallmarks of CCD. Your dog may forget familiar routines, become slower to respond to commands or seem unsure around people they know well. These changes can be upsetting, but they’re a recognised part of the condition.

5. Changes in sleeping and eating patterns

Dogs with CCD may sleep more during the day but become restless at night. Some also lose interest in food or develop changes in their usual eating habits. If you’d like to learn more about normal sleeping patterns, take a look at our guide to sleep and dogs.

6. Toilet accidents indoors

If your previously house-trained dog starts having accidents indoors, it isn’t because they’re being naughty. Confusion or memory changes can make it harder to remember where they usually go to the toilet.

How do I check if my dog has dementia?

If you’ve noticed any of these changes, keep a diary of what you’ve observed and share it with your vet. They’ll ask about the behaviours you’ve noticed and may use a scoring system based on things like confusion, changes to sleep patterns and other behaviours to help assess whether CCD is a possibility, while ruling out other conditions that can cause similar signs.

Treatment for canine dementia

Although there’s currently no cure for CCD, there are plenty of ways to help your dog stay comfortable and maintain a good quality of life.

1. Keep your dog active

Regular walks, gentle play and activities your dog enjoys can help keep them physically active while providing valuable mental stimulation. You might also like our guide to home exercises for dogs.

2. Keep your home familiar

Dogs with CCD often rely on familiar surroundings. Moving furniture or making big changes around the home can make them feel more confused, so it’s usually best to keep things as consistent as possible.

3. Stick to a consistent routine

Many dogs find comfort in routine, and this becomes even more important if they’re living with CCD. Feeding, walks and bedtime at similar times each day can help them feel more settled and confident.

4. Create a calm environment

Reducing loud noises and providing a quiet place where your dog can relax may help them feel more secure. You may also find our guide to helping a dog with anxiety useful.

5. Encourage gentle mental stimulation

Interactive toys, scent games and other enrichment activities can help keep your dog’s mind engaged. If you’re looking for ideas, take a look at our guide to toys for senior dogs.

How long can a dog live with dementia?

A diagnosis of CCD doesn’t mean your dog can’t continue to enjoy a happy, fulfilling life. With the right support, many dogs continue to enjoy months or even years of good quality life after diagnosis. Recognising the signs early, making small adjustments at home and working closely with your vet can all make a meaningful difference.

YuMOVE’s Veterinary Technical Executive, Lana Foster RVN, says:

“CCD can be a tough condition to deal with, and it’s hard to see your once active and attentive dog go through it. But there are plenty of ways to make things easier for both you and your dog. Your vet can guide you on the best steps to take.”

What are the final stages of dog dementia?

In the later stages of CCD, dogs may become severely disorientated, withdraw from interaction and find everyday activities increasingly difficult. Some may also struggle with mobility, eating or recognising familiar people and places.

Working closely with your vet is especially important at this stage to help keep your dog as comfortable as possible and maintain their quality of life.

When should I speak to my vet?

If you’ve noticed changes in your dog’s behaviour or think they may be showing signs of CCD, it’s always best to speak to your vet as soon as possible. Early assessment can help rule out other conditions and ensure your dog gets the right support.

If you’re a YuMOVE subscriber, you can also book a free consultation with an RCVS-registered PawSquad vet.

¹Under diagnosis of canine cognitive dysfunction: A cross-sectional survey of older companion dogs