
Our family has always had some far-off understanding that our pets were getting older but, like many of us, we have always been in a bit of denial that OUR dogs are actually going through any age-related changes taking place. Other senior pet parents have senior fur babies with problems but OURS are invincible! I wish!
Maybe we just haven't wanted to see change due to aging, or perhaps some of these changes are so subtle that it is hard to recognize until the changes are so drastic as to need a visit to the vet. Either way, it is important to understand what some of these changes are and to identify things that we can do to adjust to changes that start to pop up in our senior pets.
According to a study conducted by the AKC Canine Health Foundation, approximately 10% of dogs over 10 years of age show signs of cognitive dysfunction. As the dog gets older, this number increases to approximately 50% of dogs over 15 years of age. Additionally, the study found that senior dogs were two to three times more likely to engage in behavior changes than young adult dogs.
Common behavior changes in senior dogs include changes in sleeping habits, decreased responsiveness to commands, and confusion when presented with familiar tasks.
They may also start to exhibit increased anxiety, disorientation, and changes in interaction with people and other animals. Paying attention to these signs can help you identify potential health issues that may be causing the behavior changes and help you get your pet the proper medical care he needs.
Additionally, making sure your senior pet is in a comfortable environment and has plenty of mental and physical stimulation will help reduce any age-related behavior changes and keep him healthy and happy.
Before we look at some of the behavioral changes you might experience with your senior fur baby, it is a good idea to first talk about the main cause of many senior pet behavioral changes, Canine Cognitive Dysfunction.
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction or CCD is a neurological condition that affects older dogs and is characterized by a decline in cognitive functions such as memory, learning, and problem-solving. Symptoms may include changes in sleeping habits, decreased responsiveness to commands, confusion, disorientation, and changes in interaction with people and other animals. CCD is very similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans and, like Alzheimer's, it is not a curable health issue.
CCD is thought to be caused by a decrease in certain brain chemicals, and it is estimated to affect 10-50% of dogs over 10 years of age. Treatment for CCD typically includes medications and environmental modifications to improve a senior dog’s quality of life.
You will see CCD referenced several times throughout this article so hopefully the above description will help as you read. We will use the abbreviated version of the term, CCD, for ease of reference throughout.
Also, if you want to read more about different kinds of senior pet behaviors and why they happen, check out our article on dog behaviors to look out for HERE!
Now, let's dive into several of the major behavior changes that take place as our senior fur babies get older.
As always, consult your vet if you see any behavior changes in your senior pet. We provide a lot of useful information, but nothing can substitute for the expertise of your senior pet’s doctor!
Memory Issues
As the parent of a senior dog, memory issues are something that you may notice as your fur baby gets older. Memory problems can be a sign of age-related behavior changes due to CCD.
If you're noticing memory issues in your senior dog, it's important to understand the signs and symptoms, and how to properly care for your pet. Early diagnosis of memory issues caused by CCD can help manage the symptoms and improve your dog's quality of life. Common signs of memory issues in older dogs include confusion, disorientation, changes in sleep patterns, difficulty completing familiar tasks, decreased interest in play activities, and increased vocalization or "talking".
If you're concerned that your senior dog is experiencing memory issues, it's best to schedule an appointment with your vet. Your vet will be able to assess your pet's condition and determine if a diagnosis of CCD is warranted.
It's also important to provide a safe and comfortable environment for your senior dog by maintaining a consistent routine and providing plenty of affection and mental stimulation. With the proper care and management, you can help your aging pet live a happy and healthy life.
Decreased Responsiveness to Commands
It's not uncommon for senior dogs to experience decreased responsiveness to commands. As dogs age, they may lose their hearing or vision, making it difficult for them to comprehend commands.
Additionally, senior dogs may suffer from arthritis or other age-related ailments that can impact their ability to respond to commands. It's important for senior pet owners to understand how to address this issue, so that their senior fur babies can still enjoy a high quality of life.
To ensure your senior dog is still responding to commands, start by evaluating their environment and lifestyle. Make sure they are getting plenty of mental stimulation and physical activity each day.
Additionally, you may need to adjust the way you give commands. Speak louder and more clearly, while also making sure your senior dog can see the command signal.
If your senior is still having trouble responding, you may need to look into professional help or additional training resources. A trip to the dog behaviorist for guidance may help, as would a visit with your vet. With patience and dedication, you can help your senior dog remain engaged and responsive.
Difficulty Sleeping
Sleep disturbances can be a normal part of aging in dogs, especially as they enter their senior years. Difficulty sleeping can also be caused by a variety of age-related behavior changes, such as CCD.
It is important to recognize when your senior dog is having difficulty sleeping and to take the appropriate steps to ensure that they are comfortable and healthy. To do this, it is important to understand the signs of disruption in your senior dog's sleep cycle and what might be causing it.
Common indicators of sleep disruption in senior dogs can include sleeping more during the day than at night, waking up frequently throughout the night, and increased restlessness while sleeping. There are several potential causes of sleep disruption in senior dogs, such as arthritis pain, anxiety, or medication side effects.
If your senior dog is having difficulty sleeping, it is important to consult with your vet to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate plan for senior dog care. With the right advice and support, you can help ensure that your senior dog's sleep needs are met and that they are happy and healthy.
Aggression Towards People or Other Animals
Aggression towards people or other animals can be a common age-related behavior in senior dogs. As your fur baby ages, they may become less tolerant of certain situations or stimuli, and this can manifest itself as aggression. This change in behavior can be quite frightening, particularly if your senior dog never previously exhibited any aggressive tendencies.
This is especially true for those suffering from CCD. It's important to recognize the signs of aggression in your dog so you can address the issue and provide the best possible care, in consultation with your vet.
If you notice your dog growling, barking, biting, or exhibiting any other form of aggressive behavior, it's important to take action as soon as possible. A certified animal behaviorist or your vet can help you develop tailored strategies to address the aggression and manage the situation.
Remember that CCD is a progressive condition, meaning that the symptoms will likely worsen over time. Providing plenty of mental stimulation, exercise, and human interaction can be beneficial for your senior dog, helping to reduce the severity of CCD symptoms and any resulting aggression.
Difficulty Following Directions
It's normal for a senior dog to have difficulty following directions, as age-related conditions can interfere with their ability to comprehend and process commands. CCD is one of the most common age-related behavior issues that may cause difficulty following directions for your senior dog, and also includes symptoms such as confusion and disorientation. It's important to be attentive to changes in your senior dog's behavior in order to diagnose and treat this issue as soon as possible.
If you notice that your dog is having trouble understanding commands, take them to your vet for an evaluation. The vet can provide you with a detailed diagnosis and treatment plan that takes their senior age and condition into consideration. It may also help to visit your dog behaviorist. We take our senior fur babies to the behaviorist at least once a year for a "check up" and it has done wonders for both our senior dogs and our own well being!
Early diagnosis, treatment and planning can help make your senior dog more comfortable, improve their quality of life, and even slow the progression of the condition and associated symptoms.
Unusual Sleeping Patterns
Are you noticing your senior dog sleeping more than usual? Unusual sleeping patterns can be a sign of senior-related behavior or even CCD. It is important to pay attention to any changes in your senior pet's behavior that are outside the normal patterns you see, such as increased sleeping, so you can provide the right care ASAP!
While sleeping longer is normal for senior dogs, it is important to monitor their sleeping patterns closely and watch for any other symptoms. For some senior dogs, sleeping a lot isn't out of the ordinary while, for others, less snoozing is the norm. One of our seniors likes hanging out and sleeping in her bed almost 24 hours a day while another of our seniors does the exact opposite! Extreme changes in those patterns would be cause for concern and we would reach out to our vet for guidance.
If you have any concerns about your senior pet’s unusual or new sleeping patterns, it is best to consult your vet for advice.
Additionally, older dogs may experience less energy and need more rest than younger pups. Make sure your senior pet is getting enough rest but also getting regular exercise and mental stimulation. This can help preserve their mental and physical health and keep them feeling younger for longer.
If your senior dog is sleeping more than usual, consider providing them with a comfortable bed in a quiet area of the house where they can rest undisturbed. You should also provide them with plenty of water and consider adjusting their diet to meet their changing needs. With the right care and attention, you can ensure your senior dog has a happy and healthy life in their golden years!
Changes in Personality or Temperament
As your dog ages, you may notice changes in their personality or temperament. It's important to be aware of these changes and to understand the reasons why they occur. Age-related behavior can be attributed to a variety of factors, including CCD, physical limitations, and changes in their environment.
For senior dogs, it's important to take special care of their needs and to recognize changes in behavior as soon as possible. Signs of changes in personality and temperament can include disorientation, changes in sleep patterns, confusion, or decreased social interaction.
Physical limitations can also cause changes in behavior such as increased irritability or aggression due to pain or the inability to move freely. Changes in the environment can also lead to increased anxiety or decreased activity levels.
If you notice any changes in your senior dog's behavior, it's important to take them to the vet for a check-up. Your vet can advise you on any necessary treatments and provide advice on how best to manage age-related behavior. This is also a good time to ensure that the vet your senior pet's visit is well-versed in how to treat animals in their golden years. There is nothing bad about looking for a senior pet vet who specializes in senior care.
Your vet can also provide you with information on how to keep your senior pet comfortable and content in their home environment. With proper care and attention, you can make sure your senior pet is happy and healthy despite any changes they may experience as they gracefully age.
Changes in Appetite or Weight Gain or Loss
Changes in appetite or noticeable weight gain or loss can be an indication of a bigger health issue, especially in senior dogs. Age-related behavior changes, such as those associated with CCD, are common in the aging canine and can be a direct cause of changes in eating habits or weight. It is important for senior pet owners to be aware of their senior dog's normal eating habits and keep an eye out for any signs of changes.
If your senior fur baby is not eating as much as normal or appears to be putting on/losing weight, then it is recommended that you take them to your vet for a check-up. Your vet may suggest dietary changes, supplements, or medications to help improve your dog’s appetite and manage their weight.
Additionally, with senior dogs, it is important to feed them according to their individual needs and provide the right amount of food based on their size and activity level. As an example, be sure to follow the instructions provided with food you purchase for your senior dog. This is particularly important if you provide your senior dog with food specially formulated for senior pets.
Disorientation and Confusion
Disorientation and confusion are common age-related behaviors in senior dogs. As our senior fur babies age, they may begin to show signs of physical and cognitive decline. Specifically, disorientation and confusion could be the result of the development of CCD.
CCD-related disorientation and confusion can manifest in various ways and may include changes in sleep-wake cycles and increased anxiety or restlessness. To help your senior dog cope with these issues, it is important to recognize the signs of CCD and provide them with the extra care and attention they need.
If you notice that your senior dog is exhibiting signs of disorientation or confusion, such as getting lost in familiar places or appearing confused by simple commands, it is important to visit your vet for an evaluation. Your vet can assess the situation and provide you with advice on how to best handle disorientation and confusion issues your senior dog is experiencing.
It is also important to create a safe and comfortable environment for your senior pet and provide them with mental stimulation, such as interactive toys and games. With proper care and attention, you can help your senior dog maintain their quality of life even when they are dealing with age-related behaviors like disorientation and confusion.
Wandering or Fleeing from Home or Yard
Wandering or fleeing from home or yard can be a cause for concern in senior dogs. This age-related behavior is often associated with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), a condition that affects a dog's cognitive abilities.
As dogs age, their brains may not function as effectively as it once did, resulting in confusion, disorientation, and potential wandering. It is important to understand that this behavior is not caused by malice or stubbornness, but rather by the changes in the dog's mental state.
If your senior dog has been exhibiting any of these behaviors, it is important to be aware of the possibility that they may be suffering from CCD and to seek veterinary care. There are treatments available that can help reduce the symptoms of CCD and make life more comfortable for your aging pet. By providing appropriate care and support, you can help your senior dog live a long, healthy life.
Additional Senior Dog Behavior Resources
To help you, a senior pet parent, better understand and address senior dog behavior, there are several additional, high-quality resources available that we want to highlight.
Book Resources
The Complete Healthy Dog Handbook by Betsy Brevitz, DVM
Remember Me? Loving and Caring for a Dog with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction by Eileen Anderson
Complete Care for Your Aging Dog by by Amy D. Shojai
Old Dog Love: A Common-Sense Guide to Caring for Your Senior Dog by Dr. Joanna De Klerk
Online Resources
The Senior Dog Project: This website provides information and resources to help pet owners understand and address senior dog behavior. It offers a wide range of tools and tips, such as a senior dog behavior assessment, an interactive training program, and advice for dealing with age-related medical issues.
American Veterinary Medical Association: This website is dedicated to providing pet owners with resources and information for caring for senior dogs. It provides information about medical care, nutrition, and activities that are beneficial for senior dogs.
PetMD Senior Dog Care Guide: This website offers a comprehensive guide to caring for aging dogs, including information on nutrition, exercise, veterinary visits, and managing age-related health issues.
The American Animal Hospital Association Senior Pet Care Guidelines: This website provides guidelines and recommendations for pet owners on how to best care for their senior pets. It includes information on proper nutrition, exercise, and medical care.
Dog Aging Project: This website has several quality resources for pet owners who have a senior dog with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. It provides information about the condition, its symptoms, and treatment options.
Final Thoughts
Senior pets bring a great deal of joy to our homes and there is nothing wrong with recognizing that our fur babies get older. That doesn't mean they can't be happy and comfortable in their golden years.
If you get nothing else from this article, and we hope you got a lot, remember these three things....
1. It is important to recognize that senior dog behavior changes are a normal part of aging and can be managed with proper care and understanding.
2. Senior dogs may exhibit signs of cognitive decline, such as confusion, disorientation, and changes in activity levels, so it is important to be aware of these signs and provide appropriate care.
3. Early detection and intervention are key to helping your senior dog live a comfortable and happy life. Proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care are all essential components to providing your aging pet with the best possible care.
With the right resources and support, senior pet owners like us can ensure our senior fur babies are given the love and care they deserve!
- Jake