Doggie Dementia

by Nancy Lomedico
(Wenatchee, WA, USA)

My Maiya

Recently my 10 year old Australian Shepherd started acting weird. My vet wants to run labs but thinks it's doggie dementia.

I've never heard of this one before. She will "ghost bark"—look at a wall as if she's looking at a ghost and bark like a stranger is there. Aggressive/protective type behavior. It lasts a few minutes and then I can calm her down.

She has withdrawn some. Doesn't lay with me on the bed very much. Looks lost sometimes. And normal behaviors such as interacting with me, following me around the house, barking when my hair dryer turns on lol, not as interested in begging for food.

It just started about 2 weeks ago. There seems to be moments of clarity and then reverts back. If you've never heard of this like me, it might be worth the research to know the signs and symptoms if you have a senior Aussie. They think it's more likely this than a brain tumor.

Regardless, it sucks!

Have Dog Training Questions?

Check out these introductory dog training videos...

I want my dog to stop being aggressive.

I want some help training my new puppy.

I want my dog to stop barking at everything.

I want my dog to walk nicely and calmly on the leash.

I want my dog to listen and come every time I call!