I have a 10 yr old dachshund and we think he has or is getting a form of dementia. He seems to forget commands, has started to bite and is anxious all the time. does anyone have any experience with this?
Just like older people older dogs can start to deteriorate mentally. However if he is starting to bite I would be concerned for your safety and would recommend getting him examined by your vet to make sure he doesn't have arthritis or bad teeth, something that could be causing him pain or a systemic disease which could be causing him to act abnormally such as liver damage. If there are no obvious causes for his behaviour other than his age there are foods available which have been formulated to help reduce the mental deterioration. they have increased levels of fatty acids and other additives to help with brain function. those might be worth a try?
Ask your vet about Vivitonin……definitely helps older dogs who are "losing the plot".
Dogs are susceptible to a form of dementia known as Canine Cognetive Dysfunction or CCD.
They are also susceptible to a range of other mental probelms, although with the older dog, CCD is a likely cause.
I would certainly consult your vet about the changes to your dogs behaviour- especially if his behaviour includes personality changes like anxiety and biting.
You dont want to risk your family, or your dog getting into trouble from biting somebody or maybe getting into a fight with another dog.
I believe there are medications avaliable to help treat this problem (although obviously this will depend upon the diagnosis) and there are also exercises and training implements you can use to help slow the progression of the Dementia (as they say- use it or lose it!)