Dog Brain Aging As the body ages, so does the brain.
This results in a reduction of good healthy cells in the dogs brain.
Damage to brain cells can change your dog's behavior somewhat.
At about 8 years of age a dog may show signs of aging brain.
This occurs in about 50% of dogs.
It's not all doom and gloom though.
With today's modern technology and developments in medication and nutrition, much can be done to limit the progression of furry friend's aging brain.
Dog Brain Aging - what are the signs? These changes occur very slowly and can be difficult to notice.
Look for small changes in the dog's behavior.
Is your dog sleeping more than usual.
Is your dog irritable or does he lack energy or vitality.
Vets normally use the acronym DISH to diagnose the signs of dog brain aging.

• DISORIENTATION - The dog appears to be lost in familiar surroundings.
  Does not recognize you or familiar people.
  Your furry friend is not as alert and his behavior is aimless.
  
• INTERACTS LESS - Seeks no affection or attention.
  No longer interested in family members, does not greet and shows no interest.
  
• SLEEP PATTERN DISTURBED - Wanders around the house at night and sleeps much more in the daylight hours.
  
• HOUSE TRAINING LOST - Bladder or Bowel control no longer exists.
  He will not indicate that he wants to be let outside.
  Your furry friend is doing potty in the house.
  

Dog Brain Aging - what are the causes? Free radicals cause damage to the dog's brain cells as he ages.
Free radicals are caused by the dogs own metabolism as well as environmental pollution and ultra violet light.
There is not much that one can do to stop this process.
Antioxidant minerals and vitamins can help limit the damage caused by these free radicals.
Dog Brain Aging - what can we do? If you see symptoms of an aging brain in your pet, there are some steps you can take to limit its progression.

• Firstly, you would need professional advice.
  So go and see your vet and let him make the correct diagnosis and recommendations.
  
• Feed the food that your vet recommends as this will no doubt have the correct balance of antioxidant minerals and vitamins to help with your pooches aging brain.
  
• Cut out scraps from the table and rather feed small helpings of the recommended food.
  
• Remove all opportunity for your pet to scavenge for scraps or alternative food.
  
• Make sure there is always plenty of fresh water for your dog and keep his water in the shade if possible.
  

Keep in mind that you are not alone here.
Approximately 50% of dogs over 8 years old start displaying the effects of brain aging.
If your dog is diagnosed with an aging brain, then the special diet would be a long term process in order to slow down the progress of your best friends aging brain.
With the proper diet and regular exercise there is no reason why the effects of dog brain aging cannot be minimized.