A Review of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome and its Similarity to Human Alzheimer’s Disease

Roh Jae-hee (노재희)

A Review of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome and its Similarity to Human Alzheimer’s Disease

The Journal of Transdisciplinary Studies
Abbr : JTS
2023, 7(3), pp.389-396
Publisher : The Society for Transdisciplinary Studies
Research Area : Interdisciplinary Studies > Interdisciplinary Research
Received : November 20, 2023
Accepted : December 15, 2023
Published : December 31, 2023

Roh Jae-hee ¹

¹광주여자대학교

Accredited

ABSTRACT

As dogs age, they become more prone to a variety of medical conditions. In particular, canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS), a neuro degenerative disease, can have a profound impact on both pets and their owners because it can drastically alter quality of life. However, there is a lack of awareness of this disease in Korea, with a scarcity of clinical studies and reported effects. The present study investigated the occurrence and characteristics of this disease based on reports of neurodegenerative diseases in dogs and studies of canine animal models of human neuro degenerative diseases. The ensuing discussion addresses the importance of disease recognition and the need for appropriate management. CCDS typically causes cognitive dysfunction in elderly dogs, with cogni tive deficits similar to symptoms of neurodegenerative disease in humans, including disorientation, memory loss, and behavioral changes. CCDS manifests as changes in behavioral patterns and routines, and clinical features characterized according to “DISHA” signs (disorientation, inter actions, sleep-wake cycles, house soiling, and activity levels) have been associated with neurodegenerative changes including cortical atrophy and amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition. Furthermore, previous studies using canine animal models to investigate human Alzheimer’s disease have yielded similar results, including the accumulation of Aβ, decline in learning and memory, and cognitive domain-specific vulnerabilities. As the number of elderly dogs increase, the number of senior-age-related diseases will also increase; as such, it is important to be aware and prepared. Notably, CCDS is a neurodegenerative disease in animals that requires careful attention and observation to recognize. In addition, more active clinical research is needed to effectively inform management and treatment strategies tailored to the domestic pet population and environment.

KEYWORDS

Aging, Alzheimer’s Disease, Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, Elderly Dog, Narrative Review

Citation status

* References for papers published after 2023 are currently being built.

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