Companion Animals

Dog Canine Cognitive Dysfunction: Enrichment and Environmental Modification

Evidence-based information about dog canine cognitive dysfunction: enrichment and environmental modification for animal welfare improvement.

Key Facts

Welfare Considerations

Dogs with CDS experience disorientation, disrupted sleep, and loss of learned behaviours that cause distress for both the animal and their owners. Maintaining cognitive engagement through gentle enrichment, consistent routines, and appropriate medication can slow the welfare decline. Early recognition of CDS signs enables intervention before significant deterioration occurs.

What You Can Do