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My senior dog whines at night. Is it dementia or not recognizing me?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed

My dog is about 16 years old and is on steroids and heart tablets in the nights whenever I talk to her and rub her she starts whining and when I walk away she stops and goes asleep why is this does she not reconise me or what is it it’s only in the nights she does this

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on August 8th, 2019

If only Kimmy could talk! It's hard to know if Kimmy is not recognizing you or if this is simply her night time routine. Dogs can develop dementia (cognitive dysfunction) and the symptoms tend to be worse at night time: https://www.petcoach.co/article/cognitive-dysfunction-senility-in-dogs/ See if you notice any other symptoms and have Kimmy examined by the veterinarian to discuss the options. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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