Can dog dementia supplements actually prevent or slow down the process?
As dog owners, we want to do everything we can to keep our pets healthy. We buy them the right foods, take them to the vet, and make sure they get plenty of playtime. Even with all the love and affection that we shower on our dogs, we wonder if there is any more we can do, especially as they start to age. Dog dementia supplements may help treat or prevent some of the cognitive dysfunction seen in older pups.
What Are The Signs of Dog Dementia?
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If you have ever had an older dog, you have seen some of the signs of aging. They start to get gray or white hairs popping up in their fur, and your dog can start to move a little more slowly. All signs are pointing to the beginning of the aging process.
Signs of dog dementia or canine cognitive dysfunction can begin slowly. Look out for signs such as:
- Sleep disturbances
- Anxiety
- Out of the norm barking, howling, or whining
- Repetitive behavior
- Staring into corners or walls
- Being anti-social
- Easily disoriented
- Getting lost often
- Excessive barking
- Zero appetite
- Lack of self-care
- Irritable
These dog symptoms will point you in the direction of what may be going on with your confused dog.
At What Age Does Dog Dementia Start?
Dog dementia is prevalent as adult dogs progress into their older years. Cognitive Dysfunction is found in one in three dogs over the age of 11. By the time a dog reaches the age of 16, it will display at least one of the dementia signs. They often progress on a downward spiral from there. Oftentimes, dog owners are sadly forced to euthanize the dog as they are suffering from the disease, and euthanasia is the only humane course of action.
Causes of Cognitive Dysfunction
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Like dementia causes in humans, cells in a dog's brain begin to die off as they age. Things like strokes and damage can contribute to your dog's mental decline. Currently, vets do not know precisely what causes canine cognitive dysfunction.
Liver damage or disease can also be a cause of canine cognitive dysfunction. In dogs, liver disease can be hereditary or can be caused by any number of external influences. However, if your dog is suffering from liver disease, it can look a lot like senile dementia.
Steps to Prevent Doggie Dementia
One of the best ways to prevent dementia is to keep your dog active. If their brain cells are continually in use, then they will not die off. Make sure they have plenty of brain-stimulating toys so your dog will not get bored. Boredom can lead to your pup losing brain cells.
Another step in prevention starts with your dog's gut. When your dog is a puppy, you can start them off on the right path by feeding them quality puppy food. As they grow, make sure you continue feeding your dog the right food for their breed, age, and weight.
Other tips that may prevent dementia in your younger dog are:
- Consistent visits to the vet
- Maintaining a consistent vaccination schedule
- Daily play and exercise
- Adding CBD oil to their food
- Limit store-bought treats
On top of those tips, you can add brain-boosting supplements to your dog's diet that contains antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, vitamins, and fish oil.
Multi-Functional Health Support
A daily multi-vitamin not only helps your pup's brain, but it can help their joints, gut, and their coat. The Zesty Paws 8-in-1 contains Glucosamine and Chondroitin to help joints, while the added probiotics keep your furry friends' gut healthy. Omega fish oil and Vitamin E help maintain a healthy coat. The five probiotic strains, digestive enzymes, and niacin help keep their gut flora in check. To support your dog's heart, liver, and immune system, it has antioxidants Kaneka Q10, Vitamin A, and C.
Early Cognitive Support
As your dog begins to age, you want to take steps to prevent them from becoming senile. Adding a cognitive support supplement to their daily routine can help. Dr. Bill's Pet Nutrition's Cognitive Support is packed with everything they need to boost their brain cells. All-natural ingredients include Gingko Biloba, L-Carnosine, Vitamin B-12, L-Glutamine, L-Tyrosine, and DHA.
Senior Cognitive Care
If your senior dog is already showing signs of confusion, you may want to take a look at Zesty Paws Advanced Cognition Bites. The tasty bites are made to reduce stress, help brain function, and promote focus.
Ingredients include AlphaPrime and UltraCog to fuel the brain, while Sensoril, a form of Ashwagandha, promotes clarity and relaxation. It also has DHAgold, an algae-based Omega-3 fatty acid that keeps the brain healthy.
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