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My senior dog is aggressive and confused at night. Is it dementia?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Female | spayed | 9 years and 1 month old | 60 lbs

Hi I have had my pitbull, tater tot. For 9 years. She has recently been waking up all night, up to 6x, growling, teeth showing aggression. She has a glazed look and when I gently get her to wake up, she has no clue as to what happened I have tried soothing drops, cbd oil and nothing has worked. She is a wonderful pet and gentle when she is awake. Is there something I can do. This has gotten to be very extreme nightly. Help me as I love my dog. Is there a medicine I can treat her with?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 14th, 2019

It could be Tator Tot is suffering from canine cognitive dysfunction, which is essential dementia in dogs. One of the signs is sleep/wake cycle changes. Have her seen by a vet. If she does have this, diet changes and medication can help. Have her seen by her vet tomorrow morning. Best of luck.

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