One of the first indications that a member of our senior fur baby family had developed a mental problem was her inability to sit still in the evenings. No amount of activity or attention would keep her calm, and nothing could keep her from whining and jumping around like a kangaroo with a huge amount of anxiety. The odd thing was that there were no triggers, except the time of day (around 7pm each evening), and she has had extraordinarily good health for the last 14 years.
It wasn’t until we finally visited her vet that we found out that she had a form of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. The vet prescribed some medication that keeps her calm in the evenings and, when combined with a CBD chew, has given her a more peaceful demeaner after she eats dinner! Thankfully, the only indication of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction our senior dog has is anxiety. Unfortunately, for others, it is not so simple or easy.
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction, or CCD, is a condition that is caused by age-related decline in brain function and can lead to a variety of behavioral and cognitive issues in senior dogs, such as confusion, disorientation, decreased ability to learn and remember, and changes in sleep patterns. It can cause senior dogs to become less active, more anxious, and more prone to accidents and injury.
These changes can lead to decreased quality of life, increased risk of injury, and decreased enjoyment of activities and social interaction. In extreme cases, it can even lead to depression and dementia.
Statistics show that around 14% of dogs over 11 years old suffer from some level of canine cognitive dysfunction and that approximately 25% of dogs over 15 years old have been found to have some form of the condition.
These statistics show how common CCD is, and why it is such a problem. Early detection and treatment can help improve a senior dog's quality of life, so it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms.
As with all of our articles about senior dog health, we would like to mention that you should visit your vet if you start to see any signs of CCD. A lot of information is provided here but is not a substitute for proper vet care.
Now, let's take a deep dive into CCD and what you can do to ensure your senior fur baby leads a happy life!
What Is Canine Cognitive Dysfunction?
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) is a common age-related condition that affects older dogs. It is similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans and can have a significant impact on a senior dog's quality of life. The signs of CCD can include disorientation, changes in sleep patterns, decreased interactions with family members, and reduced responsiveness to commands.
CCD can cause anxiety and fear in senior dogs, as well as frustration for senior pet owners. It is important to understand the symptoms of CCD so that senior pet owners can recognize if their elderly companion may be suffering from this condition.
Early recognition of CCD is essential for successful treatment. Your vet may recommend a combination of medications, supplements, and lifestyle changes to help manage the symptoms of CCD in your senior dog. Such lifestyle changes may include providing more mental stimulation and environmental enrichment, such as daily walks or interactive toys.
In addition, it is important to ensure that your senior dog has access to comfortable bedding and a quiet place to rest. By understanding CCD and making simple lifestyle changes, senior pet owners can help improve the quality of life for their aging companion.
Does My Senior Dog Need A Supplement for Canine Cognitive Dysfunction?
As dogs age, they can be more prone to developing CCD.
If your senior dog has been exhibiting signs such as confusion, disorientation, decreased ability to learn and remember, it's time to consider if they need a supplement for CCD. There are several supplements available on the market that are specifically formulated to help with CCD.
These supplements, discussed in more detail below, may contain ingredients such as omega fatty acids, amino acids, antioxidants, and vitamins (all discussed below) which can help support cognitive function in senior dogs. It's important to consult with your vet before giving your senior dog any supplement for CCD, as some supplements may interact with other medications your vet has already prescribed or conditions your dog might have.
Additionally, it's best to choose a supplement that is made from natural ingredients, as these can be better tolerated and safer for your senior pet. With the right supplement, you may be able to help ease the symptoms of CCD in your senior dog and improve their overall quality of life.
How Do I Choose The Best Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Supplement For My Senior Dog?
Choosing the right canine cognitive dysfunction supplement for your senior dog can be a daunting task. It's important to consider which supplement will help your pet the most, as each one offers unique benefits.
First, discuss with your vet how severe your senior dog's cognitive dysfunction is, and whether the supplement should focus on addressing specific symptoms or treat the condition as a whole. This would also be the time to discuss medications your vet could prescribe to treat CCD.
Next, review the ingredients and look for supplements with natural ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids, green tea extract, and alpha-GPC (discussed below).
Additionally, research any potential side effects and make sure the product has been tested for safety and efficacy.
Finally, look for a supplement that is easy to administer and has a palatable taste. With these considerations in mind, you can easily choose the best canine cognitive dysfunction supplement for your senior dog.
Ingredients to Look For in Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Supplements
Green Tea Extract
Green tea extract has been shown to be beneficial for senior dogs suffering from CCD. The antioxidants found in green tea extract can help reduce oxidative stress and support healthy brain function in senior dogs.
Additionally, the polyphenols in green tea extract can help improve blood flow to the brain which can improve cognitive function. Studies have also shown that green tea extract can improve memory and learning ability in senior dogs with CCD. Green tea extract can also help to reduce inflammation and improve mood in senior dogs.
Finally, green tea extract may also help to reduce anxiety and depression in senior dogs.
Huperzine A
Huperzine A is an alkaloid compound found in the Chinese club moss plant, Huperzia serrata. It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of conditions but is now gaining popularity as a natural treatment for CCD in senior dogs.
Huperzine A helps senior dogs with CCD by increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine in the brain. Acetylcholine is an important neurotransmitter that helps to regulate memory and learning and is often depleted in senior dogs with CCD. By increasing levels of acetylcholine, Huperzine A can help to improve memory and learning in senior dogs with CCD.
Studies have also shown that Huperzine A can help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which can reduce the symptoms of CCD. Huperzine A can also help to protect the brain cells from oxidative damage, which can help to prevent further cognitive decline.
In addition to its cognitive benefits, Huperzine A can also help to improve overall health and wellbeing in senior dogs. It has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression, as well as improve energy levels and mobility.
Alpha-GPC
Alpha-GPC (Alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine) is a natural supplement that has been found to improve cognitive function in senior dogs with CCD. This supplement helps to provide the brain with energy to maintain its normal functioning. It does this by increasing the concentration of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain, which is important for learning, memory and other cognitive functions.
Alpha-GPC has also been found to reduce oxidative stress in the brain, as well as improve the overall health and well-being of senior dogs. Studies have also shown that this supplement can help to improve the quality of life for senior dogs with CCD, as well as reduce the symptoms of this condition.
CoQ10
CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10) is a natural vitamin-like substance found in every cell of the body. It helps to produce energy and is especially important for senior dogs with CCD.
CoQ10 helps to increase levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for cognitive functions such as memory, learning, and concentration. It also helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to CCD symptoms.
Studies have shown that CoQ10 can help to improve cognitive function in senior dogs with CCD, as well as reduce anxiety and depression. In addition, CoQ10 can help to improve energy levels, which is especially beneficial for aging dogs.
CoQ10 may also help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which can have a positive effect on cognitive function. For best results, CoQ10 should be given daily and combined with other treatments for CCD.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that are important for overall health and wellness. They are especially beneficial for senior dogs with CCD as they help to reduce inflammation and improve cognitive function.
Omega 3s are found in fish oil, flaxseed oil, and other sources. They help to reduce inflammation in the brain which can improve cognitive function and help to reduce the symptoms of CCD.
Studies have also shown that omega 3s can reduce anxiety and depression in senior dogs, as well as improve their memory and learning ability. Omega 3s also provide senior dogs with vital nutrients that can help to improve their overall health and wellbeing.
Amino Acids
Amino acids are essential nutrients that are necessary for a variety of functions in the body, including cognitive function. Amino acids play an important role in the formation of proteins, which are essential for brain health and development.
In addition, amino acids are also important for producing neurotransmitters, which help to regulate mood and behavior. This can be especially helpful for senior dogs with CCD, as the symptoms of CCD can include changes in mood and behavior.
Amino acids can help to improve cognitive function in senior dogs by providing the necessary nutrients for neurotransmitter production. Neurotransmitters are responsible for sending messages throughout the brain, and having the right balance of them can help to improve cognitive function.
Additionally, certain amino acids, such as L-theanine, have been shown to have a calming effect on the brain, which can help to reduce anxiety and improve cognition. By providing senior dogs with the necessary amino acids, senior pet owners can help to improve their senior dog's cognitive function and reduce the symptoms of CCD.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an essential vitamin that helps to maintain good physical and mental health in senior dogs. It is an antioxidant that helps to protect the brain from free radical damage, which can lead to cognitive decline. Vitamin E helps to reduce inflammation in the brain, which can improve cognitive function in senior dogs.
It also helps to improve blood flow to the brain, which can help to improve memory and learning ability. Vitamin E also helps to improve the immune system, which can help to ward off infections and chronic diseases that are common in senior dogs.
Additionally, Vitamin E helps to reduce the production of harmful hormones, which can cause anxiety and depression in senior dogs. By providing your senior dog with a daily supplement of Vitamin E, you can help to improve their overall cognitive health and quality of life.
5 Best Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Supplements For Senior Dogs
Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet is a supplement that contains Omega-3 fatty acids which help to support cognitive function and improve brain health in senior dogs. This supplement has been tested for safety and efficacy and is easy to administer, with a palatable taste. The Omega-3 fatty acids in this supplement help to reduce inflammation, improve memory and concentration, and support healthy brain function.
VetriScience Laboratories Golden Years is a supplement specifically designed for senior dogs that helps to support cognitive function. This supplement contains a blend of amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants that helps to reduce inflammation, improve memory and concentration, and promote healthy brain function. It is easy to administer with a palatable taste and has been tested for safety and efficacy.
NaturVet Quiet Moments Dog Calming Aid Soft Chews is a supplement designed to help reduce anxiety and improve focus in senior dogs. It contains L-theanine and thiamine which help to naturally relax your senior dog and promote a feeling of calmness. Additionally, the soft chews are easy to administer and have a palatable taste, making them a convenient option for your senior pet.
Zesty Paws Cognition Bites are a supplement designed to support cognitive health in senior dogs. It contains a blend of nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, CoQ10, and vitamin E which help to improve memory, concentration, and alertness. Additionally, the bites are easy to administer and have a palatable taste, making them a convenient option for your senior pet.
PetHonesty Multivitamin Max Strength is a supplement designed to support brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve cognitive function in senior dogs. It contains green tea extract, Huperzine A, and omega-3 fatty acids which help to improve memory, concentration, and alertness. Additionally, the chews are easy to administer and have a palatable taste, making them a convenient option for your senior pet.
Should I Give My Senior Dog Other Supplements With His Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Supplement?
If your dog has been diagnosed with CCD, it's important to make sure he's getting the necessary supplements to help manage it.
While most vets prescribe a specific CCD supplement or medication, you may be wondering if you should give your pup additional supplements.
The answer is yes and no. Yes, additional supplements can be beneficial, but they must be approved by your vet and they should not replace the CCD supplement or medication your senior pup is already taking. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants are especially important for senior dogs since they help reduce inflammation and can improve cognitive function.
However, it's important to point out that too much of a good thing can be bad for your senior dog, so it's best to consult with your vet before adding any extra supplements.
In addition to getting approval from your vet, you should also make sure the supplements you give your senior dog are natural and have quality ingredients.
Some supplements can contain fillers or other ingredients that can be harmful to your senior dog’s health. Doing research on the ingredients of different supplements can help you determine which ones are best for your senior fur baby.
If you're considering giving your senior dog additional supplements along with his CCD medication, always talk to your vet first. You want to make sure the extra supplements will not interfere or cause any adverse effects with the prescribed medication. In the end, doing your research and talking to your vet will help ensure your senior dog is getting the best possible care for their CCD.
What If My Senior Dog Doesn't Take His Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Supplement Every Day?
If your senior dog is diagnosed with CCD, it is important to ensure that they take their supplement every day. Not doing so could result in a worsening of their condition, as there may be a decrease in the effectiveness of the supplement. That being said, there are a few things to keep in mind if your senior dog isn't taking the supplement each day.
First, it could be beneficial to observe your senior pet's behavior and look for any changes that could indicate a decrease in cognitive function. You may also want to speak with your vet about potential changes to the dose or type of supplement your senior pet is taking.
Additionally, it may be helpful to provide your senior pet with more interactive activities and engage them with their environment; this can help keep the brain stimulated and ward off any potential cognitive decline.
Finally, if you are still concerned about the effectiveness of the supplement, you can always ask your vet for additional advice or consider switching to a different type of supplement. Ultimately, it is important to remain vigilant and aware of any changes in your senior dog’s behavior and take necessary steps to ensure that their cognitive health is being taken care of.
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Resources
Once you and your vet have determined that your senior dog has CCD, it helps to have resources available to understand everything about the condition. Thankfully, there are a ton of resources out there so you don't have to feel like you are dealing with this issue alone. The following are five highly authoritative sites to keep in mind or bookmark for future reference:
The Dog Aging Project: This website is dedicated to providing pet owners with reliable information about CCD. They provide resources to help owners better understand the condition and how to manage it.
American Veterinary Medical Association: The AVMA offers a wealth of information about CCD, as well as general information about senior pet care.
The American Kennel Club: The AKC provides information CCD and offers tips for managing the condition.
VeterinaryPartner.com: This website offers a variety of resources for pet owners, including information about CCD and how to care for senior pets. Though it is geared towards veterinarians, there is a lot of information that is easily understandable for us senior pet owners.
PetMD: PetMD offers articles and videos about CCD and provides tips on how to manage the condition.
Final Thoughts
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) is an age-related condition that affects many senior dogs and, unfortunately, it can cause changes in behavior, such as increased anxiety and confusion, as well as physical symptoms like weight loss, dehydration, and sleep disturbances.
While there is no cure for CCD, there are ways to make life easier for your senior pup. Regular vet visits, mental stimulation activities, and a healthy diet are all important for helping your senior dog cope with the effects of the condition.
Additionally, medications may be prescribed to help improve your senior dog's quality of life. It is also important to keep your senior dog socially engaged with people and other animals.
Finally, providing a comfortable environment for your senior pup is essential for their wellbeing; this includes making sure they have a safe place to rest and plenty of access to fresh water. Taking care of your senior dog with CCD can be challenging but it is possible with patience and care.
- Jake