Aging Dogs Face Alarming Rise in Cognitive Dysfunction

According to a recent report, the number of pet dogs living with dementia-like symptoms has surged in recent years, as advancements in veterinary care and pet food have allowed canines to live longer than ever before. Mami Irimajiri, a veterinarian at the Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology Animal Medical Center, explains that the condition, known as "geriatric cognitive dysfunction" or "cognitive dysfunction syndrome," shares many similarities with human Alzheimer's disease.

The main symptoms include forgetting their owners, incontinence, increased fear and aggression, and disorientation, which can worsen over time to the point where some dogs spin in circles or wander aimlessly. Irimajiri notes that while canine dementia has long been recognized, the rise in cases is likely due to dogs living longer, healthier lives.

To help prevent or alleviate these symptoms, Irimajiri suggests strategies similar to those used for humans, such as maintaining regular exercise, engaging in brain-stimulating activities, and providing a nutritious diet. She emphasizes the importance of catching any changes early, as the risk of developing dementia increases dramatically after a dog's 10th birthday, with the likelihood rising by about 68% each year.