Companion Animal Welfare

Companion Dog Cognitive Dysfunction Prevention

Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome can be slowed through cognitive enrichment, diet and veterinary management, improving quality of life for senior dogs.

Key Facts

CDS affects an estimated 14-35% of dogs over 8 years of age
Signs include disorientation, disrupted sleep, reduced interaction and loss of houstraining
Diagnosis requires exclusion of pain and other medical causes mimicking cognitive decline
Selegiline, dietary supplementation and environmental enrichment slow progression
Early intervention with cognitive enrichment from middle age may delay onset

Welfare Considerations

CDS causes significant welfare harm through confusion, disrupted sleep and loss of skills that affect both dog and owner quality of life. Prevention through lifelong cognitive enrichment and early veterinary intervention provides the best welfare outcomes. Owner recognition of early signs enables earlier intervention.

What You Can Do

Provide lifelong mental enrichment through training, play and novel experiences
Seek veterinary assessment if your senior dog shows any signs of cognitive change
Ask your vet about CDS-specific diet and supplementation for dogs over 8 years