Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS) — the dog equivalent of Alzheimer's disease — affects a substantial proportion of senior dogs and causes significant welfare harm if unrecognised.
CCDS welfare is a significant and growing problem as the companion dog population ages. Dogs with CCDS experience a progressive deterioration in cognitive function that causes genuine suffering: disorientation in familiar environments is frightening, disrupted sleep causes fatigue and anxiety, and failure to recognise family members causes social distress. Unlike normal aging changes, CCDS is a progressive neurological disease with a welfare trajectory that worsens without intervention. The tragedy of CCDS is its systematic underdiagnosis: owners frequently attribute early signs to normal aging, delaying treatment that could substantially improve quality of life. Cognitive enrichment — new learning activities, social engagement, puzzle feeders — has evidence for slowing decline and improving welfare. Medication provides additional benefit. Welfare assessment tools help owners and vets track progression and make timely end-of-life decisions.