Dementia in dogs is a serious but common condition, and it can be a deeply distressing experience for both the dog and its owner. Understanding what causes the condition, how to identify it, and the support available to help manage it is therefore essential. In this blog, we’ll be exploring the common question: Does dog dementia get worse at night? We’ll look at the science behind the condition and how you can support your pet if they’re showing signs of dementia. We’ll also look at the importance of creating a safe and comfortable environment for your pet, and provide some tips on how to ensure your dog’s wellbeing during the night.
What Are the Symptoms of Sundowners in Dogs?
This disorder manifests itself in senior dogs in a variety of ways, including confusion, wandering, getting stuck, barking, and excessive licking. However, there are a few broad categories into which the symptoms of sundowner syndrome can be placed:
Sundowner syndrome can cause dogs to become disoriented and behave in unfamiliar environments or go to the wrong side of the door to be let outside.
Due to a breakdown in communication with other animals, dogs who have sundowners may become more agitated, irritable, or anxious.
As the disease advances, you may notice these symptoms getting worse and start to see your dog aimlessly wandering the house with compulsive behaviors like barking at the wall for no apparent reason or excessive grooming. This typically means increased restlessness (especially at night) and/or vocalizations that seem to be directed at nothing in particular.
Your dog may start to perform routine tasks less adeptly, such as housebreaking or adhering to previously learned commands; you may also notice that your dog is having trouble identifying and responding to familiar family members.
When a Pet Might Develop Sundowning
Dr. Benjamin Hart, a veterinary behaviorist and Professor Emeritus at University of California-Davis, says that canine cognitive disorder has long been recognized. He explains that dogs, similarly to people suffering from Alzheimers disease, develop a beta amyloid pathology in the brain. This is a starch-like protein that becomes waxy once deposited in the tissues. Thirty percent of dogs aged 11 to 12 had one or more symptom. Sixty-eight percent of the 15 to 16-year-old dogs had one or more symptom.
More recently, the condition has also been recognized in cats. “Youre more likely to see it in 15-year-old and older cats,” says Gary Landsberg, DVM, a veterinary behaviorist in Thornhill, Ontario. He authored one of the first research papers on cats that concluded, in part, that as many as 80 percent of cats he sees that are over the age of 16 show signs of senility. Like affected humans and dogs, cats with cognitive dysfunction also have deposits of amyloid material in the brain.
Its important to diagnose cognitive dysfunction correctly. Behavior changes in your aging pet often have other causes. A lapse in housetraining could be brought on by diabetes or kidney disease. An elderly cat may yowl due to age-related hearing loss or high blood pressure. A brain tumor or neurological problems brought on by liver disease could also be the cause of disorientation and personality changes. Diagnosis relies on eliminating other causes. In a study by the Washington State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, veterinarians estimated that up to 85% of animals with age-related senility go undiagnosed. Sadly, many are euthanized when behaviors become unacceptable.
Which Dogs Are at Risk of Sundowners?
Sundowners syndrome can affect any dog, but it seems to affect some breeds more frequently than others. Particularly, it appears to be more prevalent in small breeds, which typically have longer lifespans than their larger counterparts.
For instance, giant breeds like Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, and others have relatively short lifespans and age quickly. Chihuahuas, Poodles, and other toy breeds, in contrast, can live up to 16 years or more, and they frequently age more gradually.
Consider this: Sundowners syndrome would likely develop in most dogs at some point. However, because canine lifespans vary, it isn’t always given enough time to materialize.
FAQ
How can I help my dog with dementia at night?
Try to be consistent with your dog’s feeding, walking, going to bed, and waking up times to benefit your pet. This isn’t always easy, but can help reduce anxiety. Additionally, your dog may be less likely to experience nighttime confusion if you maintain a regular sleeping schedule.
Why do dogs with dementia stay up all night?
In our older dogs, cognitive dysfunction is a common cause of nighttime awakenings. This disorder typically progresses slowly and resembles dementia in people. Increased confusion, reversal of day-night sleep patterns, and difficulty adapting to new circumstances are symptoms of the disease.
How do you calm a dog with sundowners?
For dogs who become more anxious at night, pheromone therapy and melatonin may reduce anxiety and enhance wellbeing. Last but not least, it’s critical to keep your dog stimulated. Consider quick brushing sessions, massage therapy, engaging toys, and stimulating walks.
How do you know when to put your dog down with dementia?
- Staring for extended periods of time; appearing lost in familiar spaces and in corners.
- Withdrawal from familiar people and places: …
- Barking for no reason on a regular basis: …
- Sleeping pattern changes: …
- Omega-3 fatty acids: