My senior dog is anxious. Could it be dementia or hearing loss?

Question

My 13 yr old Yorkshire terrier has recently ( last 3 days) been showing signs of anxiety similarly to the way she reacts to the smoke alarm going off, but there are no signs that I can hear. I was wondering if this could be due to hearing lose or do you think there is something else going on? Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | spayed | 30 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

You are correct there could be something else going on. In senior dogs like Molly, they can develop a condition called canine cognitive dysfunction. This is similar to dementia in humans, and it would cause her to behavior strangely at times. I would have Molly seen by a vet. The vet can diagnose if she does have cognitive canine dysfunction by doing a physical exam, blood tests, urinalysis, and x-rays to rule out any health problems that could potentially cause her symptoms. If canine cognitive dysfunction is diagnosed, the vet can discuss treatment with you. While it cannot be cured, it can be managed with mediations, behavioral therapy, and special diets.

My senior dog is anxious. Could it be dementia or hearing loss?

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