Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is the dog equivalent of dementia. Early recognition and management can significantly improve quality of life for affected dogs.
Dogs with CDS experience confusion, anxiety, and loss of control over basic functions that were once automatic. Night-time waking, disorientation in familiar spaces, and failure to recognise family members cause distress that owners often fail to connect with cognitive decline. The welfare harm is compounded by underdiagnosis — owners who do not seek veterinary help cannot access available treatments. Management approaches including environmental modifications (night lights, maintained routines, reduced furniture rearrangement), dietary interventions, and medication can slow progression and reduce anxiety. End-of-life decisions are complex: dogs with advanced CDS may have poor quality of life that warrants humane euthanasia, but this must be weighed against retained sources of pleasure and comfort.