Physical signs of canine cognitive dysfunction.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Neurology
• Animal Behavior
• Geriatrics

Background:

• Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is prevalent in aging dogs.
• Physical disturbances are frequently observed in dogs with CCD.
• The specific relationship between physical disturbances and CCD requires further clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and clarify the physical disturbances associated with canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD).
• To identify specific physical signs that correlate with the presence and severity of CCD.
• To explore the potential of these physical disturbances as early indicators of CCD.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire survey was administered to owners of dogs aged 10 years and older.
• The survey included questions on general information, physical disturbances (gait, posture, perception), and the Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Rating Scale (CCDR).
• Data were collected via web-based and paper-based surveys, with statistical analysis using ordinal logistic regression.

Main Results:

• Vision impairment, smell disturbance, tremor, swaying/falling, and head ptosis were significantly associated with CCD in the web survey (n=726).
• Most of these physical signs, except head ptosis, also showed significant association or a trend towards association in the paper survey (n=103).
• CCD prevalence increased with age, particularly in dogs 16 years and older, while physical signs increased from 10 years of age.

Conclusions:

• Physical disturbances, including sensory and motor impairments, are significantly linked to canine cognitive dysfunction.
• These identified physical signs may manifest in the early stages of CCD.
• The study suggests that monitoring physical disturbances can aid in the early detection of CCD in dogs.