If your senior dog seems confused, forgetful, or anxious, they may be experiencing Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD)—commonly known as dog dementia.
Unfortunately, over the past couple of weeks I have had to acknowledge that my 2 legged senior dog who was rescued from Afghanistan 10 years ago is now down this path. So I decided that a deep dive into this condition to see how I could help him was something I could do and not feel quite as useless. And a few days in at the time of writing I can see some improvements already - do follow his page on https://www.instagram.com/mazardog/ to keep up with his progress.
Just like humans with Alzheimer’s, dogs with CCD struggle with memory, learning, and behaviour changes. While this condition can’t be cured, there are plenty of natural ways to improve your dog’s quality of life at home.
What Is Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD)?
CCD is a degenerative neurological condition caused by the deterioration of brain cells and a decline in neurotransmitter function. Key neurotransmitters involved in cognitive health include dopamine, which supports motivation and learning, and serotonin, which helps regulate mood and anxiety. As dogs age, oxidative stress, inflammation, and the buildup of abnormal proteins in the brain contribute to neuron damage and reduced cognitive function. These abnormal proteins include beta-amyloid plaques, which interfere with neuron communication, and tau tangles, which disrupt cellular transport and lead to cell death. This leads to symptoms like:
Disorientation (wandering aimlessly, getting stuck in corners)
Changes in sleep patterns (pacing at night, sleeping more during the day)
House training regression
Anxiety or increased irritability
Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
Forgetting familiar people or routines
If you notice these signs, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian to rule out other potential health issues. Once diagnosed, lifestyle adjustments and natural remedies can help slow the progression and make your dog’s golden years more comfortable.
There is a great questionnaire that you might find useful the Canine Dementia Scale or CADES
Natural Remedies to Support a Dog with Dementia
1. Mental Stimulation & Enrichment
Keeping your dog’s brain engaged is one of the best ways to slow cognitive decline. I’m using a variety of snuffle mats with Maz as well as regular sessions on his wheels as he mobilises to a stool or snuffle mats or his meals to keep those cogs whirring.
Also a good braided tripe chew is providing him with a lot of entertainment and don’t forget getting your dog out for walks is so important too and simple sniffari’s even if that is in a stroller.
Try:
Puzzle toys & treat dispensers – Encourages problem-solving and engagement.
Short training sessions – Reinforce simple tricks or teach new commands.
Scent games – Hide treats around the house to stimulate their nose and brain.
Gentle socialization – Keep them interacting with people and other pets when possible.
2. Essential Oils for Anxiety & Cognitive Support
Certain essential oils may help dogs with stress relief and mental clarity:
Lavender oil – Calms anxiety and promotes restful sleep.
Frankincense oil – Supports neurological health and relaxation.
Peppermint oil – May help with mental alertness (use sparingly and properly diluted).
Lemon oil - May improve cognitive function and also citrus oils promote the release of serotonin and dopamine the key neurotransmitters involved.
👉 It is best to work with a practitioner such as myself to ensure you dilute them properly (never apply directly to the skin) and also use them in the best way. Diffusing in a well-ventilated room is often the safest option.
Maz is really getting the benefits from Lemon along with Rosemary (some cautions for meds here and conditions such as epilepsy along with a proprietary cellular blend that is rich in antioxidants.
3. Brain-Boosting Supplements
Boosting BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) – BDNF is a protein that plays a crucial role in brain health, supporting neuron growth and cognitive function. Ways to naturally boost BDNF in dogs include:
Exercise – Regular physical activity promotes BDNF production.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Found in fish oil, these support brain cell regeneration and reduces inflammation get your dog started on this 1000mg/10kg bodyweight.
Curcumin (Turmeric) – Known to enhance BDNF levels and reduce inflammation.
Lion’s Mane Mushrooms – Known for their neuroprotective properties they stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), aiding brain repair and may help enhance cognitive function and support brain regeneration
Blueberries – Rich in antioxidants that help protect and support brain function.
Polyphenol Complex - these plant compounds are potent anti-oxidants which help fight inflammation
I include my recommended one in my
Senior Dog Brain & Body Kit which has grape seed extract frankincense resin and resveratrol and curcumin to name just a few
Dopamine & Serotonin Support – These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in mood, motivation, and cognitive function. Ways to naturally support dopamine and serotonin in dogs include:
Essential oils as mentioned above
Exercise & Play – Physical activity increases dopamine and serotonin levels, improving overall well-being
Tryptophan-Rich Foods – Found in turkey, eggs, and salmon, tryptophan helps boost serotonin levels
Probiotics – Gut health is closely linked to serotonin production; a healthy gut can support better cognitive function.
Sunlight Exposure – Natural light can enhance serotonin production, improving mood and alertness.
4. Diet for Cognitive Health
A diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients can help slow the progression of dog dementia. Aim for a minimally processed diet to achieve this - I have started cooking more and more for my dogs as to be honest it is the only way Maz will eat his veg and blueberries but he laps it up. If you need some ideas have a look at the Forever Dog Life Book which is chock full of easy to follow recipes
Look for foods that contain:
Blueberries, cranberries and pomegranates – High in antioxidants and mix well in Kefir - great for that microbiome
Broccolli & spinach– many dogs enjoy the taste and these are rich in antioxidants.
Lean Protein – Helps maintain muscle mass and energy levels.
Coconut Oil - the MCTs contained in it have been show to improve cognition in dogs - drizzle some over your broccoli and I guarantee your dog will eat their greens.
Eggs - these antioxidant rich powerhouses of protein, vitamin and minerals are also a potent source of choline
5. Establish a Routine & Provide Comfort
Dogs with CCD thrive on routine. Stick to consistent meal times, walks, and bedtime routines to reduce anxiety. Other helpful adjustments include:
Soft lighting at night to help with disorientation.
Orthopedic beds for joint support and comfort.
Gentle massage or T-Touch therapy to relax muscles and reduce anxiety - adding in essential oils can be a great way to enhance these benefits
Final Thoughts
Watching your senior dog struggle with dog dementia can be heartbreaking, believe me I know only too well but with the right natural remedies and care, you can enhance their quality of life at home. Whether through mental stimulation, essential oils, brain-boosting supplements, or dietary changes, small adjustments can make a big difference. Along with my kit your get access to my private members area with resources such as my essential oils for pets course with an abundance of resources but you will also get a bespoke plan to help you navigate these challenges as well as continued support in my community group which is full of doggy folk that truly understand.
If you suspect your dog has CCD, do ensure you get a vet check as different things might be the cause instead such as UTIs which can cause so much confusion in my human patients.
Working with a practitioner such as myself and creating a customised care plan that supports your dog’s needs can really make the difference.
With love, patience, and the right tools, your dog can continue to enjoy their golden years with comfort and happiness. And you have my wholehearted wish that they do. 💕🐶
Information given here is not intended as a substitute for medical or veterinary consultation - the author has no liability nor responsibility with respect to any issues occurring out of use such as damage, loss, injury.