Behaviour and sleep
Behaviour, sleep and cognitive changes in older dogs
Behaviour change is information, not a diagnosis. Pain, medical disease, sensory change and cognitive dysfunction can overlap, so persistent changes deserve veterinary assessment.
Changes to notice
Night waking, pacing or vocalising
A senior dog may begin waking, wandering, pacing or vocalising at different times. Pain, sensory change, medical disease, anxiety and cognitive dysfunction are among the possibilities.
Disorientation or apparent confusion
Getting stuck in familiar areas, staring, seeming lost or having difficulty navigating can be meaningful changes that deserve assessment.
Changed social interaction
Withdrawal, irritability, increased clinginess or reduced interest in normal interaction can reflect discomfort, sensory change, anxiety or illness.
New toileting mistakes
House-soiling can occur with reduced mobility, urinary or gastrointestinal disease, access difficulty or cognitive change. It should not be assumed to be deliberate behaviour.
Keep routines predictable while you investigate
Consistent routines, accessible resources and appropriate lighting can make the home easier to navigate. These adjustments can support comfort, but they should not replace assessment of a new or progressive behaviour change.