Nervous System and Behavior Chenges

Senile dementia is a specific medical condition that has been discussed in the previous chapter. However, there can also be other, more subtle age-related behavior changes.

Behavior Changes
Older dogs sleep more and take more time to remember the "who, what, when, where" after they wake up. They are also less tolerant of weather extremes.

Habits, such as feeding time or the hour the family goes to bed, become deeply ingrained. Older dogs hate changes in routine. They are naturally less energetic, less curious, and less active.

Some become irritable, especially those with diminished sight or hearing. All of these natural changes can be associated with altered brain and nerve function. However, many of these changes can also signify treatable medical conditions.

Diagnosis and Treatment  
Once your vet has eliminated organic disease as the cause of a behavior change, you can slow down your dog's continuing brain deterioration by thinking up and creating enticing mental activities.

For example, searching the home for hidden food treats exercises the body, senses, and brain.