Dementia in Dogs: Diagnosis, therapy, and everyday help for canine cognitive dysfunction

As dogs get older, it’s often more than just their gait or energy levels that change. Some suddenly seem disoriented, forget familiar routines, or wander restlessly around the house at night. What was long misunderstood as a mere sign of aging is now recognized as a distinct clinical condition: dementia in dogs, known in technical terms as canine cognitive dysfunction. This book addresses this topic in a comprehensive and understandable way. It explains what happens in the brains of aging dogs, shows how to distinguish the first signs of normal age-related changes, and describes the options available in modern veterinary medicine to alleviate the symptoms. It not only addresses medical and nutritional aspects, but also the question of how owners can organize their daily lives so that their dogs can lead a dignified and fulfilling life despite cognitive limitations. At the same time, the work looks beyond veterinary medicine. Dog dementia is not only an important topic for veterinarians and owners, but also a valuable model for Alzheimer’s research in humans. By learning to understand the mental changes in our four-legged companions, we also expand our knowledge of the mechanisms of aging. A book for everyone who loves their dogs and wants to accompany them attentively through the last stage of their lives-with knowledge, empathy, and the certainty that the bond between humans and animals cannot be broken, even by forgetfulness. Bremen University Press has published over 5,000 specialist books in various languages since 2005.