Understanding Doggy Dementia
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) and the signs
As our beautiful dogs grow older, it’s easy to assume that any changes we see are “just normal aging.” But research shows otherwise.
A large survey of senior dogs found that 75% were showing at least one behavioural sign of cognitive decline, yet only 12% of owners reported these changes to their vet, simply because they thought it was normal.
This is why early conversations are so important.
These behaviours are not just “getting old.” They can be indicators of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), also known as doggy dementia, and the earlier we recognise them, the more we can do to support comfort, reduce anxiety, and maintain quality of life.
There are gentle, effective treatments and lifestyle adjustments that can truly make a difference. You’re never “overreacting” by mentioning what you notice at home, those small details help us understand how your dog is coping day-to-day.
What is Canine Cognitive Dysfunction?
CCD occurs when age-related changes develop in a dog’s brain, leading to a decline in memory, awareness, behaviour, and routine functioning. Families often describe their dog as seeming “not quite themselves,” or like familiar tasks suddenly feel harder.
Early recognition matters; with the right support, many dogs experience improved comfort, reduced anxiety, and a much gentler aging journey.
DISHA - how to diagnose
Veterinarians use the acronym DISHA to help track behavioural changes associated with cognitive decline. Each letter represents a cluster of signs you may notice at home.
D — Disorientation
Dogs can become confused in spaces and situations they once understood well.
This may look like:
Getting “stuck” in corners or behind furniture
Staring at walls, floors, or into space
Walking into the wrong rooms
Difficulty finding the door to go outside
Standing on the hinge side of doors
Appearing lost in familiar environments
Brief moments of not recognising familiar people or pets
Confusion around daily routines (e.g., where the food bowl is)
I — Interactions (Changes in Social Interactions)
Their social behaviours may shift — sometimes becoming clingier, sometimes more withdrawn.
This may look like:
Increased anxiety or general restlessness
Becoming more “Velcro-like” with family members
Reduced interest in greeting visitors
Irritability when touched or woken
Withdrawing from interactions they once enjoyed
Forgetting familiar cues or trained behaviours
Seeming confused during play or training
Seeking reassurance more frequently, especially at night
S — Sleep–Wake Cycle Changes
Their internal rhythms may shift, making nights harder for both them and their family.
This may look like:
Pacing or wandering overnight
Waking multiple times
Night-time vocalisation
Sleeping more during the day
Reversed sleep–wake patterns
Difficulty settling at bedtime
Restless or fragmented sleep
Sudden night-time anxiety
H — House Soiling
Toileting habits may regress as memory and spatial awareness decline.
This may look like:
Forgetting to signal they need to go outside
Urinating or defecating indoors despite past training
Walking to the door but not actually going out
Accidents unrelated to medical conditions
Confusion about where the toilet area is
Incomplete toileting despite going outside
A — Activity Level Changes
You may notice increases (restlessness) or decreases (withdrawal) in activity.
This may look like:
Aimless wandering or pacing
Circling behaviours
Standing still for long periods
Repetitive actions (licking, pacing the same route)
Reduced interest in toys, walks, or play
Slowing down or loss of motivation
Becoming easily startled
Anxiety-related behaviours such as panting, shaking, agitation
Supporting a Dog With Cognitive Decline
While CCD is progressive, there is so much we can do to help dogs feel safer, calmer, and more comfortable. Support may include:
Environmental modifications
Enrichment tailored to their cognitive ability
Predictable, gentle daily routines
Brain-supportive nutrition and supplements
Medications to support memory, reduce anxiety, or help sleep
Therapies like Cycloid Vibration Therapy, massage, or mobility aids
Practical guidance for families navigating these changes
Every dog is unique — and the right plan can make an enormous difference in their comfort and wellbeing.
A Final Word
If you’re noticing changes in your senior dog — even subtle ones — you are not alone, and you’re not imagining it. These signs matter, and recognising them early is one of the kindest things you can do for your pet.
If you ever need guidance, a quality-of-life discussion, or a gentle home visit to assess your dog’s comfort, I’m here to support you both with compassion and care.
