Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is the dog equivalent of dementia, affecting a significant proportion of older dogs. Early recognition and management can meaningfully improve quality of life.
Canine cognitive dysfunction is a significant source of welfare harm that often goes unrecognized by owners. A dog that is disoriented in its own home, unable to recognize family members, waking repeatedly through the night, and becoming lost in familiar spaces is experiencing genuine distress. The condition progressively worsens and the fear and confusion it causes are real experiences for the affected animal. Owners who dismiss these signs as 'just getting old' may be missing opportunities to intervene with treatments that meaningfully improve quality of life. The welfare question of when cognitive dysfunction has progressed to a point where quality of life cannot be maintained requires honest, regular assessment with veterinary guidance.