Senior Dog May Have Dementia but She Still Knows Her Owner’s Voice

Much like humans, dogs suffer from health issues as they get older. These could range from reduced mobility to dental problems, and in some cases, memory loss.

Recently, an owner has given the internet an insight into what it’s like owning a 17-year-old dog with canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD), also known as dementia.

A video shared to the @spunkyandfriends TikTok account has racked up 910,600 views. It shows Spunky, a Chihuahua, standing still in the backyard. When she hears her owner’s voice, something sweet unfolds.

The on-screen text reads: “My senior pup with dementia sometimes gets lost so I call her name to let her know I’m nearby.”

The camera zooms in on the heartwarming moment Spunky starts to wag her tail.

One user said: “She may not know much, but she still knows her love for you.”

Another agreed: “She might not have many thoughts but the main one is that she feels safe and happy with you.”

In a study involving 180 neutered dogs, researchers from the Animal Behavior Clinic in Portland, Oregon, found that 68 percent of canines aged 15 to 16 showed signs of cognitive deterioration. The research published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that 28 percent of dogs between 11 and 12 years displayed symptoms of cognitive decline in at least one area of behavior. However, only 1.9 percent of the dogs had been officially diagnosed with the condition by a veterinarian.

Dog Dementia Symptoms

Some of the signs and symptoms of CCD, per the American Kennel Club include:

• Confusion: They may forget where their food is or find it difficult to find their way from the upper to the lower level of your home. As the disorder worsens, your dog might even forget its name or fail to recognize family members.
• Disinterest: CCD may cause your dog to lose interest in its favorite toys, foods, or people.
• House soiling

Can Dog Dementia Be Prevented?

Newsweek reached out to Dr. Daisy May, a veterinary surgeon and pet care writer for All About Parrots. She has provided tips on how to prevent memory deterioration and how to care for a dog with dementia.

May explained that a balanced and nutritious diet lays the ideal foundation for overall health in any dog. But “there are additional proactive steps owners can absolutely take to potentially reduce dementia risk as their furry friends get on in years,” she said.

These include:

• Consistent mental and physical stimulation from an early age.
• Frequently switching up walking routes.
• Using food puzzle toys to promote problem-solving, and even nose work games all help strengthen neural pathways and stave off cognitive decline.
• Keeping pups at an ideal weight with appropriate exercise.

How To Care for a Dog With Dementia

Owners are advised to seek veterinary help if their pet is showing signs of CCD. Dr. May said there is medication available for the condition.

She told Newsweek: “Medication like selegiline can provide modest benefits, but I truly believe pairing it with lifestyle enrichment is key for meaningful quality of life.”

She encourages owners to establish a predictable daily routine with consistent potty breaks and mealtimes to reduce anxiety. It is also encouraged to place puddle pads around the house so accidents are easier to manage.

“Simple environmental cues like leaving lights on at night or using pheromone diffusers can also work wonders,” she said. “At the end of the day, the human-animal bond we share with our dogs is incredibly powerful.

“While cognitive decline can certainly test it, responding with patience, empathy and making accommodations to help them feel safe allows that beautiful connection to survive even dementia’s cruel effects. The challenges are very real, but I continue to be inspired by owners who shower their “oldies” with boundless love.”

Newsweek reached out to @spunkyandfriends for comment. We could not verify the details of the case.

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