Brain Ageing in Dogs: Symptoms & Treatment

What is brain ageing in dogs?

Just like the rest of the body, the brain is affected by the ageing process. Damage to the brain’s cells can lead to changes in your dog’s behaviour and alertness.

It's important to remember that ageing is a natural part of your dog's life. Half of all dogs 8 years and older will show some signs of brain ageing, and as your dog ages, he may begin to act differently. Thanks to advances in medicine and pet nutrition, the right dog food and veterinary advice can help limit the effects of brain ageing and maintain your dog’s activity level.

What causes my dog’s brain to age?

Aging takes a toll on a dog's entire body, including his brain. In recent years, scientists have made great strides in understanding the ageing process. Today, many experts agree that ageing is primarily caused by unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals. As the brain ages, free radicals cause damage to the cells. Although some free radicals may be caused by the effects of environmental conditions, the majority are produced by the body’s own metabolism.

The ageing process attacks all body systems and organs in a dog, including the brain. The result is a loss of brain function, and often, the appearance of behavioural changes that were not present in a dog’s younger years.

Why is the brain susceptible?

• High lipid content, a prime target for free radicals
• High demand for oxygen
• Limited antioxidant defence and repair capabilities
• Nervous system tissue is especially vulnerable to attack by free radicals.

Healthy Older Brain	Older Brain with Damage
MRI scans show loss of brain tissue in affected dogs. Note: MRI scans are not harmful to dogs.

Older, compromised mitochondria produce less energy and more highly toxic free radicals

• Mitochondria are a source of energy production within cells, but also produce highly toxic free radicals as a by-product
• As the brain ages, mitochondria produce an ever-increasing number of free radicals
• Damage caused by free radicals leads to reduced brain function and possible behavioural changes

Little can be done to stop free radicals from being produced. Antioxidants, vitamins and minerals have been found to counteract the damage caused by free radicals and may help maintain normal behaviour for a long and healthy life.

 

Is my dog showing signs of brain ageing?

Changes in brain function occur very slowly. The first thing you’ll notice may be small differences in behaviour, such as increased sleeping, lack of energy or irritability. You may not notice these changes until they start to interfere with your dog’s everyday life. The following signs are commonly used by veterinarians in the diagnosis of brain ageing.

• House-soiling accidents
• No longer "asks" to go outside
• Doesn't greet family members
• Does not want attention/petting
• Does not recognise familiar people or places
• Does not respond to verbal cues
• Sleeps more during the day or less at night
• Appears lost or confused in the house or yard
• Wanders or paces
• Stares into space or at walls

IMPORTANT: If any of these signs are affecting your dog, discuss them with your veterinarian.

Treatment: The importance of nutrition

To keep your dog acting young and healthy, proper nutrition is important. As your dog ages, continue to feed him foods rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients to keep him active and alert. Older dogs can continue to have a high quality of life and the food your dog eats plays an important role in his overall health and well-being. Balanced nutrition is an essential part of an active, healthy lifestyle. For accurate diagnosis and treatment options, always consult your veterinarian and ask them about foods specifically fot brain health.

Brain Ageing Questions to Ask Your Veterinarian

1. What kind of health risks do ageing dogs have?
2. Do older dogs need to visit the veterinarian more often?
3. Do older dogs have special nutritional needs?
4. Would a Hill’s™ Prescription Diet™ dog food help my ageing dog’s brain?
   • What if I have multiple dogs? Can I feed them all the same dog food?
   • How can nutrition help with this condition? What is the benefit of feeding therapeutic nutrition as part of treatment which may include administering pills?
   • What are the pros and cons of using nutrition to help manage my aging dog’s behaviour and alertness?
5. How long will I need to feed the recommended dog food to my dog?
   • Ask how feeding a therapeutic dog food can help promote long-term benefits for my dog?
6. What is the best way (email/phone) to reach you or your hospital if I have questions?
   • Ask if you need a follow-up appointment.
   • Ask if a reminder email or notice will be sent.