As dog owners, it is saddening to realize they’re getting older. Sundowners in dogs is a type of canine cognitive dysfunction that can affect everyone's quality of life, significantly impacting a dog's quality as well. Familiar routines become confusing, and peaceful nights turn into restless pacing. This is the reality of sundowners syndrome, a form of canine cognitive dysfunction. It'’s heartbreaking for you to witness, but understanding sundowners is the first step in providing your dog comfort and support. While there’s no cure, there are ways to manage this condition and improve your dog’s quality of life (and yours!).

What is sundowners in dogs?

Sundowners syndrome is a form of canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCD) specifically referring to a worsening of symptoms in the late afternoon, evening, and nighttime hours.

Similar to how some people with dementia experience increased confusion and agitation as the day progresses, dogs with sundowners (and often dogs with dementia more broadly) may become disoriented, restless, vocal, and have severely disrupted sleep patterns. Dog dementia, also known as canine cognitive dysfunction, shares many of these symptoms and requires careful management.

It’s important to understand that sundowners isn’t a separate disease, but rather a pattern experienced by older dogs with cognitive decline. Doggie dementia, a term often used to describe cognitive dysfunction in senior dogs, can manifest in similar ways.

What causes sundowners syndrome in dogs?

We don't exactly know what causes sundowners syndrome in dogs, but it's generally linked to age-related cognitive decline in our furry friends. As dogs get older, their brains naturally change, which can mess with their cognitive function and lead to behaviors we see in sundowners syndrome.

Furthermore, it typically occurs in older dogs and may result from changes in brain function, reduced production of sleep-regulating hormones like melatonin, or reduced sensory perception. Factors such as confusion, anxiety, or altered circadian rhythms can worsen symptoms, especially during the evening or nighttime. Health issues like arthritis, vision loss, or hearing problems may also contribute.

How is sundowners syndrome diagnosed?

Since sundowners syndrome is a symptom pattern within canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD), diagnosing it involves a multifaceted approach by your veterinarian.

Here's what you can expect:

  1. Your detailed input: Your observations are incredibly important! Be prepared to share thorough, even day-to-day, descriptions of your dog's behavior changes. This includes when symptoms started, if they're getting worse, and anything that seems to trigger them.
  2. Ruling out other causes: Your vet will do a full physical exam and likely blood tests. There are medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms to sundowners but require different treatments. For example, dogs with arthritis might experience pain-related nighttime restlessness that can be mistaken for cognitive decline.
  3. Brain imaging (rare): In some complex cases, vets specializing in neurology might recommend advanced imaging like an MRI. While not routine, this can sometimes detect brain changes associated with CCD.

Key points to remember

  • Diagnosing CCD takes time: There's no single blood test for sundowners. Your vet gathers information from various sources to make an informed diagnosis.
  • Early is better: Don’t hesitate to talk to your vet about even mild changes in your senior dog. Many pet parents may not recognize the early signs of cognitive decline, mistaking them for normal aging. Early diagnosis allows for the most effective management.
  • It's not just "old age": Cognitive decline is a disease process with real impact. A diagnosis gets you the support and resources to help your dog.
sundowners in dogs
Sundowners syndrome in dogs is a component of canine cognitive dysfunction and dementia

Spotting the subtle signs of sundowners in dogs

Sundowner syndrome in dogs is often talked about as pacing, nighttime barking, or extreme disorientation. While these are important symptoms, they often signal later stages of canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD), similar to dementia in people.

Recognizing the more subtle early signs can make a huge difference in both managing your dog's well-being and getting the right veterinary support.

  • Changes in familiarity: Does your dog seem hesitant at the top of the stairs they've used for years? Do they get "lost" in corners of your home or yard? Confusion with once-familiar layouts can be an early clue.
  • Sleep struggles: Shifting sleep-wake cycles are common with sundowners in dogs. Your dog might sleep more during the day, then become restless at night, even before full-fledged sundowning.
  • Clingy or withdrawn: CCD can alter how your dog interacts. They might become unusually clingy and anxious, or conversely, seem less interested in usual playtime or cuddles.
  • Everyday tasks get tricky: Has your dog seemingly unlearned housetraining and soiling in the house? Does your dog stare at their food bowl as if unsure what to do? Difficulty with once-routine tasks can signal cognitive decline.

When to talk to your vet: I recommend yearly check-ups for all ages of dogs, but especially for seniors. These appointments allow us to track changes, discuss any concerns you have, and rule out other health problems. That being said, if your dog is showing any signs of sundowners or cognitive decline, don't wait for their regular appointment – call and schedule a visit.

Helping your dog (and yourself) navigate the nights

While there's sadly no cure for cognitive decline that causes sundowners, focusing on management can make a huge difference in both your dog's comfort and your own peace of mind.

  • Set a routine: Use predictability and consistency to your advantage. Maintain consistent schedules for meals, walks (adjusting intensity for your dog's ability), playtime, and bedtime. This helps reduce anxiety triggered by confusion.
  • Increase daytime activity: Mental and gentle physical stimulation during the day can help tire your dog in healthy ways. Short training sessions, puzzle toys, and safe neighborhood walks are great options.
  • Create a comfortable atmosphere: As evening approaches, create a calm atmosphere. Dim lighting and having a comfortable, familiar sleep space can ease anxiety.
  • Nighttime adjustments: Consider leaving a dim nightlight on to help with disorientation. If housetraining is an issue, schedule a final potty break right before you sleep, even if it disrupts your own routine slightly.

Treatments your veterinarian can prescribe to help your dog with sundowners

After a thorough examination and diagnosis of cognitive decline and sundowners syndrome, your veterinarian is the best source for determining if medication is right for your dog.

Here's what your vet might consider:

  • Targeting anxiety: Medications often used for dog anxiety (e.g., fluoxetine, clomipramine, trazodone, or gabapentin) can help reduce the restlessness and agitation associated with sundowners.
  • Improving sleep: Your vet might prescribe melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep cycles. This can be helpful when your dog's day and night patterns are severely disrupted.
  • Addressing cognitive decline: There's a specific medication called selegiline (Anipryl®) that's approved for canine cognitive dysfunction. It aims to slow down the progression of the condition.
  • Supplements and specialized diets: Omega fatty acids (e.g. fish oil) and antioxidants are what I routinely recommend to dog owners. There are prescription diets such as Hill's Prescription Diet b/d that have high levels of omega's and antioxidants built right in.
  • Treating other concerns: It's important to rule out any underlying medical issues that might make sundowners worse. Your vet might recommend medications if they find other health problems alongside the cognitive decline.

Important things to know:

  1. What works for one dog with sundowners might not for another. Your vet will tailor treatment based on your dog's specific symptoms and health.
  2. It can take time to find the right medication and dosage. Be patient and work closely with your vet.
  3. Medication is often most effective when combined with the management tips mentioned earlier (routine, calming environment, etc.).

Sundowners in your senior dog can be tough to face. Remember, your goal isn't to cure them but to manage their symptoms and make their days as comfortable as possible. Work closely with your veterinarian – they're your guide in this. Simple routines, a calm environment, and understanding that your dog is confused (not being disobedient) can make a huge difference. This journey won't be easy, but your commitment will help your dog through it.