Dogs, like humans, can develop cognitive dysfunction as they age. Known as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) or doggy dementia, this condition can significantly affect their behavior and quality of life. When my dog, Barnaby, started showing signs of dementia at 13 years old, I began to see firsthand how this condition impacts not just the dog, but the entire family. Living in an RV, constantly on the move, added a layer of complexity to our situation, but it also taught me invaluable lessons about the power of secure attachment, mental stimulation, and holistic care.
Understanding Cognitive Deficit Barks and Cognitive Slippage
Dogs with dementia often exhibit changes in their behavior that may be subtle at first but become more noticeable over time. One common symptom of cognitive dysfunction is something known as ‘cognitive deficit barks.’ These are the result of what is referred to as ‘cognitive slippage,’ a form of dementia commonly seen in senior dogs. As Linda Michaels notes in her book Do No Harm Dog Training (2022), ‘Cognitive deficit barks are the result of cognitive slippage or dementia often seen in senior dogs.’
In Barnaby’s case, I noticed these types of barks more frequently as his dementia progressed. These weren’t his usual barks of excitement or alertness but seemed to stem from confusion, as if he had momentarily forgotten where he was or why he was barking. Understanding that these barks were a symptom of his cognitive decline helped me respond to them with patience and compassion.
The Foundation of Care: Reinforcing Secure Attachment
Before jumping into mind games or nutritional adjustments, one thing became clear—Barnaby needed to feel secure. Dementia often leaves dogs feeling confused and disoriented, so reinforcing a secure attachment became my top priority. Living in an RV and frequently relocating made this even more important, as Barnaby didn’t have the stable environment that a home would provide.
For dogs, especially those with CCD, a strong bond with their human provides stability. I focused on maintaining consistent routines—feeding times, walks, and rest periods, every 3-4 potty breaks —so that even as his surroundings changed, Barnaby had something familiar to hold onto. I also spent more time simply being with him, providing comfort through touch and presence.
Tapping into Early Memories: The Power of the Imprint Period
As I worked with Barnaby, I found myself reflecting on an old Greek saying, παλιμπαιδισμός, which refers to a return to childlike behavior. This concept reminded me that dogs with dementia may revert to behaviors learned during their imprint period, much like humans often do when experiencing memory loss.
I noticed that Barnaby seemed to fall back on early-learned behaviors, particularly those from his formative years. Basic tasks, like sitting for meals or following familiar routines, brought him comfort. I realized that reinforcing these behaviors wasn’t just about training—it was about helping Barnaby reconnect with a part of his memory that remained intact, despite his cognitive decline.
The Gut-Brain Connection: A Holistic Approach to Dementia Care
Years before Barnaby developed dementia, I worked with Dr. Mortens, a professor specializing in human dementia. Although our work together focused on dog aggression, I asked him countless questions about dementia, and he explained the connection between the gut and the brain. This understanding of the gut-brain axis played a significant role in how I approached Barnaby’s care.
The gut-brain axis is critical for cognitive health. In both humans and dogs, an unhealthy gut can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress, which contribute to cognitive decline. I adjusted Barnaby’s diet, introducing antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics. By addressing his gut health, I hoped to slow down the progression of his dementia and support his brain function.
Mental Stimulation and Reinforcement: Keeping Barnaby Engaged
In addition to focusing on Barnaby’s physical health, I knew that keeping his brain active was essential. Cognitive dysfunction can cause dogs to forget even basic cues, so reinforcing familiar behaviors became a daily practice. Meeting dogs in safe places, or also introducing simple stress free puzzle games to stimulate his mind and give him a sense of purpose.
Using puzzle feeders and hiding treats encouraged Barnaby to use his nose and brain together. These games were simple but gave him the mental challenge he needed to stay engaged. They also helped strengthen our bond, as I guided him through each activity, providing positive reinforcement along the way.
Adapting to Life on the Move: RV Living with a Dog with Dementia
Living in an RV meant that Barnaby’s environment was constantly changing. Every time we relocated, I had to make adjustments to keep him feeling safe. Whether it was maintaining a consistent routine or making sure I was always present for him, our life on the move taught me the importance of flexibility.
No matter where we went, I kept certain routines intact: meal times, walks, and rest periods. These familiar activities gave Barnaby stability in a constantly shifting environment. I also made sure to spend extra time sitting with him, offering comfort and reassurance as he adjusted to each new location.
Their bed in our Rv hallway
Supporting Your Dog Through Dementia: A Personal Reflection
As Barnaby’s dementia progressed, it became clear that his cognitive decline was having a severe impact on his daily life. He was constantly stressed and frustrated, often disoriented in familiar places. Over time, his physical health also began to deteriorate, and with the onset of heart problems, we knew we needed to consider his overall quality of life.
We made the incredibly difficult decision to opt for quality-of-life euthanasia. To ensure that this decision was made with care and clarity, we used a specific quality-of-life questionnaire designed to assess whether Barnaby was still experiencing moments of joy and comfort, or if his suffering outweighed the good days. After discussing everything with our veterinarian, we came to a compassionate agreement that it was the best decision for Barnaby.
It wasn’t an easy choice, but by using this objective tool, we were able to make a decision that put Barnaby’s needs first, free from bias and with full professional support.
Barnaby would always lick ( care) us in the morning
If you’re struggling with your dog’s cognitive decline or any behavioral issues, I’m here to help. As a holistic behavior consultant, I can work with you to create a personalized care plan that takes into account your dog’s specific needs. Together, we can focus on your dog’s well-being and support you through this challenging journey—just as we did with Barnaby.
