Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome is an age-related neurodegenerative condition causing significant welfare harm in senior dogs that is frequently underdiagnosed.
Canine cognitive dysfunction causes genuine suffering through confusion, anxiety, disrupted sleep and loss of learned behaviours. Dogs with advanced CCD may be chronically disorientated and distressed. The condition is frequently underrecognised because signs are attributed to normal ageing. Early diagnosis allows management strategies and treatment to slow progression. As CCD advances, honest quality of life assessment is essential. The welfare-centred approach prevents both premature euthanasia and prolongation of suffering beyond acceptable quality of life.