As our dogs move into their golden years, many of us assume the changes we see—slower walks, more naps, shifting routines—are just part of “old age.” But sometimes what’s happening is more than simply aging: our canine companions may be showing signs of cognitive dysfunction, also known as “doggy dementia.” At Your Furry Godmothers LLC, we understand how much your senior or medically fragile pet means to you. We also understand the concern you feel when favorite behaviors fade or new challenges emerge. Let’s talk about what to look for, what it means, and how we can help your pet live well during this phase.
What is canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD)?
Much like Alzheimer’s disease in humans, CCD involves changes in the aging dog’s brain – impacting memory, awareness of surroundings, learning, and behavior. It doesn’t appear overnight — it is typically a gradual shift.
Key signs to watch for:
Getting lost or confused: A dog who once navigated the home easily may suddenly stall in corners, hesitate at familiar furniture, or seem unsure of where to go.
Behavior changes: Perhaps your pet becomes unexpectedly irritable, less interested, or more clingy than before.
Anxiety or restlessness: Night-time pacing, increased vocalization, or avoidance of hugs and quiet cuddles may show up.
Memory and training slip-ups: A well-trained dog may forget commands, have accidents indoors, or not remember cues or routines.
Sleep or activity shifts: More napping during the day, being awake and restless at night, or simply losing interest in favorite activities.
What to do if you see these signs:
Check with your vet. Because many health issues mimic cognitive dysfunction (like urinary infections, arthritis pain, sensory loss), it’s important to rule out other causes.
Support their environment. Keeping a predictable routine helps your pet feel secure. Minimizing obstacles and confusion in the home helps too (for example: clear pathways, consistent locations for food, water, and sleeping areas).
Support their environment. Keeping a predictable routine helps your pet feel secure. Minimizing obstacles and confusion in the home helps too (for example: clear pathways, consistent locations for food, water, and sleeping areas).
Mental & physical stimulation. Gentle walks, puzzle toys, hide-and-seek, scent games—all of these help keep the brain engaged even when movement is slower.
Consider diet and supplements. While there’s no cure, certain diets rich in antioxidants or medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), and supplements like Omega-3s, SAMe and others, may slow progression.
Focus on comfort and quality of life. For pets with more advanced signs, keeping them safe, comfortable, calm and loved becomes the priority. That means extra supervision, help with mobility if needed, and lots of tender care.
How Your Furry Godmothers can help your senior pet thrive:
We specialize in caring for pets at every stage of life—including senior or medically fragile animals who need extra attention, medication administration, or slower, gentler walks.
During home visits or overnight stays we can monitor changes in behavior (sleeping more, pacing, accidents) and alert you early.
We’ll maintain your dog’s routine, use gentle enrichment (mental games, calm walks) and ensure comfort, whether that’s minimizing confusion at night or ensuring water and food are easily accessible.
If changes in behavior have you worried, we can partner with your vet team to support your dog’s journey—and help you decide when it’s time to adjust care plans.
Watching your beloved dog slow down or shift in behavior can be heart-wrenching. But recognizing the signs of cognitive change early gives you the power to act — to ease anxiety, safeguard your pet’s routine, and help them feel loved and supported in this new phase. If you’ve noticed your dog acting “off,” confused, or unsettled in familiar spaces, don’t wait. Reach out, get that vet check, and plan a thoughtful approach.
If you liked this post, check out this one about separation anxiety here.
