Published in Animals, the study by Julia Haake, N. Meyerhoff, and colleagues surveyed 394 ownershuman Alzheimer’s disease, interest in nutritional approaches to mitigate symptoms has grown substantially.
The researchers found that while only 8% of owners were willing to change their dog’s primary diet, a much larger proportion—54%—opted to add dietary supplements. The most frequently used supplement was fish oil, selected by 48% of respondents. Other supplements included vitamins and oils aimed at supporting brain health or slowing degenerative processes.
These findings highlight a discrepancy between owner willingness to adjust core nutrition and their readiness to introduce supplements. Although dietary modification is supported by research demonstrating potential improvements in CCD symptoms, many owners prefer additive solutions rather than reformulating the main diet.
The authors emphasize that supplement use should be discussed with veterinary surgeons, particularly because geriatric dogs often present with multi-morbidities, concurrent medications, and specific nutritional needs. Without guidance, supplement choices may be ineffective or potentially unsafe.
The study underscores the importance of early detection, informed nutritional strategies, and professional oversight to improve quality of life for aging dogs experiencing cognitive decline.
Source: Haake, J., Meyerhoff, N., and colleagues. (2023). Investigating Owner Use of Dietary Supplements in Dogs with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. Animals. Published 29 September 2023.
