Dogs Can Get Alzheimer's

Cognitive dysfunction syndrome is an aging-related condition in dogs that ultimately leads to changes in consciousness, deficits in learning and memory, and reduced responsiveness to stimuli. While the initial symptoms of the disease are mild, they gradually worsen over time, also known as "cognitive decline." So dogs also have Alzheimer’s disease.

Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease in dogs

· Disorientation/confusion
· Anxiety/restlessness
· Extreme irritability
· Reduced desire to play
· Seems to ignore the past Training in learning
· Slowness in learning new tasks
· Inability to follow familiar routes
· Lack of self-discipline
· Fecal and urinary incontinence
· Loss of appetite (anorexia)< br />· Changes in sleep cycles (i.e. waking up at night, sleeping during the day)

Causes of Alzheimer’s disease in dogs

Although the exact cause of cognitive dysfunction syndrome is not yet known, it is speculated that it is hereditary factors that may cause disease in animals.

How to Diagnose Alzheimer's Disease in Dogs

You need to thoroughly document your dog's health status with your veterinarian, including the onset and nature of symptoms and any unusual behavior or complications that may result. The dog is then given a complete physical exam to assess the dog's overall health and cognitive function. Routine blood tests, ultrasounds, and X-rays are also used to rule out other conditions that may be causing the behavioral changes associated with cognitive impairment syndrome.

How old is a dog usually with Alzheimer’s disease?

If a dog is over 10 years old and exhibits more than 5 phenomena at the same time, it can be considered to be in the primary stage of Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer's disease is more common in dogs starting at the age of 13, and by the age of 15, most dogs will show symptoms of dementia.