Abstract

The longevity, health, and welfare of dogs have been extensively studied, with increasing attention to age-related cognitive decline such as geriatric nutrition and welfare, including cognitive related issues such as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS). This study investigated cognitive decline in geriatric dogs in Santiago, Chile. Using the Canine Dementia Scale (CADES), we assessed 70 dogs aged 7 years or older. Sociodemographic and health data were collected, and cognitive impairment was categorized into normal, mild, moderate, or severe. Results indicated that 65.7% of the dogs (age range: 7–17 years old) exhibited cognitive dysfunction: 30% mild, 24.3% moderate, and 11.4% severe. The prevalence of severe cognitive dysfunction significantly increased with age, notably from 13 years onwards. Mongrel dogs represented the majority (61.4%) of the sample, with no significant differences in cognitive dysfunction severity based on breed. Owners predominantly considered their dogs as family members (97.1%) and were typically women with university-level education. These findings align with global research reporting high CDS prevalence in geriatric dogs, with approximately 70% of dogs aged 15–16 years exhibiting cognitive decline. While no significant breed-related differences were identified, the high proportion of mongrel dogs in the study may have influenced these results. This study highlights the critical need for educating pet owners on CDS and incorporating cognitive assessments into routine senior care in addition to dietary, pharmacological, and environmental strategies after assessment. Addressing CDS not only improves dogs' quality of life but also might strengthen owner-dog bond, emphasizing the broader implications of geriatric canine care. © 2025 Elsevier Inc.