For the foundational guidance behind these picks, see the foundation principles of aging dog wellness.
Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is a real diagnosed neurodegenerative condition, not a vague “senior brain health” problem to be managed with whichever supplement looks promising. The Neilson et al. 2001 study found that 28 percent of dogs aged 11-12 and 68 percent of dogs aged 15-16 showed clinical signs of cognitive impairment1. A more recent 2025 review reports prevalence rising from 8.1 percent in dogs ages 8-11 to 67.3 percent in ages 15-172. Despite that high prevalence, only about 2 percent of cases are formally diagnosed by veterinarians.
The evidence base for the supplement for CCD is genuinely limited. The strongest peer-reviewed support is for phosphatidylserine combinations (Senilife: Araujo 2008, Osella 2007), S-adenosylmethionine (Rème 2008), and medium-chain triglycerides (Pan 2010)345. Even those studies are small (n=8-9 in some), often open-label, and the effect sizes are modest. The only FDA-approved drug for CCD is selegiline (Anipryl), available by veterinary prescription. Supplements may slow decline as part of a broader plan; they do not cure or reverse established CCD.
The five picks below are evaluated honestly against that evidence. The order maps situations to picks, not “best” to “worst.” Related guides cover senior dog multivitamins, enrichment toys, and orthopedic beds. Environmental enrichment, regular exercise, and diet matter alongside supplementation for senior dogs.
Last updated: May 29 2026 | By Austin Murphy
Disclosure: HappyPaws is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Canine cognitive dysfunction is a medical condition that requires veterinary diagnosis. Symptoms attributed to “normal aging” can also indicate untreated dental pain, vision or hearing loss, hypothyroidism, urinary tract infection, brain tumor, or other treatable conditions. Supplements are dietary aids, not treatments. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any supplement regimen for a senior dog showing behavioral or cognitive changes.
Quick Verdict
- Best evidence-base pick: Nutramax Senilife (phosphatidylserine + ginkgo + vitamin E + B6) has the most published research support among the supplements listed here, including peer-reviewed studies by Araujo 2008 and Osella 2007.
- Skip supplement-only approach if your dog shows multiple DISHAA category symptoms: see your veterinarian for proper diagnosis. CCD is a medical condition, and selegiline (Anipryl) is the only FDA-approved drug. Supplements may be one piece of a treatment plan, not a substitute for one.
Understanding Canine Cognitive Dysfunction
CCD is a progressive neurodegenerative condition. The Neilson et al. 2001 cross-sectional study of 180 geriatric dogs reported clinical signs in 28 percent of dogs aged 11-12 and 68 percent of dogs aged 15-161. A 2025 American Journal of Veterinary Research review reports prevalence figures across more granular age groups: 8.1 percent in dogs 8-11, 18.8 percent in 11-13, 45.3 percent in 13-15, and 67.3 percent in 15-172. Different studies define and measure CCD differently, which is why prevalence ranges vary. What is consistent across all studies: the condition is common in aging dogs, and it is underdiagnosed.
The pathology shares features with human Alzheimer disease. Beta-amyloid plaques accumulate, neuronal function declines, cerebral atrophy occurs, and neurotransmitter systems shift. The clinical signs are summarized by the DISHAA acronym (an expansion of the older DISHA): Disorientation in familiar spaces, Interaction changes with family members or other pets, Sleep-wake cycle disruption, House-soiling in previously trained dogs, Activity level changes (decreased exploration or increased aimless wandering), and Anxiety6. Symptoms in multiple DISHAA categories raise suspicion for CCD.
Critical context for owners: symptoms attributed to CCD can also indicate other treatable conditions. Untreated dental pain causes irritability and decreased interaction. Vision or hearing loss causes apparent disorientation. Hypothyroidism causes lethargy and behavioral change. Urinary tract infections cause house-soiling. Brain tumors can present with progressive cognitive change. Joint pain causes activity reduction. Veterinary workup distinguishes CCD from these conditions, which require different treatments. Starting cognitive supplements without a workup can delay the diagnosis your dog actually needs.
What the Evidence Actually Shows for Cognitive Supplements
The peer-reviewed evidence for cognitive supplements in dogs is concentrated on a few specific compounds and product formulations. The honest summary below is more limited than typical product marketing suggests.
Phosphatidylserine combinations. The Senilife formulation (phosphatidylserine 25 mg, ginkgo biloba 50 mg, vitamin E 33.5 mg, pyridoxine 20.5 mg per capsule) has the most product-specific evidence. Araujo et al. 2008 (Canadian Veterinary Journal) reported improved short-term memory performance in aged beagles in a small crossover study (n=9)3. Osella et al. 2007 (Applied Animal Behaviour Science) reported improved DISHA symptoms in an open-label pilot trial of 8 dogs with CDS4. Independent veterinary commentary characterizes the Senilife evidence as “limited weak evidence” given the small sample sizes and study designs.
S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe). Rème et al. 2008 (Veterinary Therapeutics) reported a double-blinded placebo-controlled trial of SAMe tablets for age-related mental decline in dogs, with positive effects on the cognitive measures used5. This is one of the better-designed studies in the category, though sample size is still modest by general clinical trial standards.
More Information
Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT). Pan et al. 2010 (British Journal of Nutrition) reported long-lasting cognition-enhancing effects in aged dogs supplemented with 5.5 percent MCT for eight months7. This research is the basis for Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind dog foods. The strongest practical translation of MCT evidence is therapeutic diets (Hill’s Prescription Diet b/d, Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind) rather than MCT-containing supplements.
Antioxidant combinations. Hill’s research using brain-protective blend diets containing antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and arginine has shown cognitive benefits in research settings. Hill’s Prescription Diet b/d (veterinary prescription) carries this research. Aktivait (multi-antioxidant blend) also has some published evidence base.
Compounds with weaker or unclear evidence for dogs. CBD and hemp products are widely marketed for canine cognitive support but the peer-reviewed efficacy data specifically for CCD is limited. Apoaequorin (Neutricks) has one published study in dogs. Resveratrol alone, ginkgo alone, and many “brain blend” formulations rely on extrapolation from human or rodent research rather than canine-specific trials. This does not mean they cannot help. It means the evidence base is less direct, and that is honest to acknowledge.
The single most important framing for cognitive supplements: selegiline (Anipryl), the only FDA-approved drug for CCD, has a more robust evidence base than any supplement listed here. For dogs with confirmed CCD, the conversation with your veterinarian should include selegiline, not just supplements.
What to Look for in a Cognitive Support Supplement
Ingredients with peer-reviewed canine research
The shortest list of compounds with published canine evidence is phosphatidylserine, SAMe, MCT, and specific antioxidant blends. Supplements containing these compounds in dosages matching the research are evidence-aligned. Supplements containing generic “brain support blends” without specific quantities are operating on extrapolation. Both can be on the market. Knowing which category your supplement falls into is part of informed selection.
Specified dosages, not just ingredient lists
“Contains phosphatidylserine” is meaningless without a milligram quantity. The Senilife dose used in published research is 25 mg phosphatidylserine per capsule, dosed at one capsule per 5 kg body weight4. Supplements that match research doses are evidence-aligned. Supplements that list ingredients without quantities may contain sub-therapeutic amounts.
NASC Quality Seal or equivalent third-party verification
The National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) Quality Seal program audits manufacturing practices and adverse event reporting8. The seal does not certify efficacy but does signal manufacturing quality control. For cognitive supplements taken daily for months or years, manufacturing consistency matters meaningfully.
Honest acknowledgment of medication interactions
Several common cognitive supplement ingredients interact with medications senior dogs may already take. SAMe can interact with serotonergic medications and some pain medications. Ginkgo biloba has anticoagulant properties relevant for dogs on blood thinners. Hemp and CBD products can affect drug metabolism. Any supplement starting conversation for a senior dog already on prescription medications should include your veterinarian for compatibility review.
A realistic timeline for expected effects
Cognitive supplement research in dogs typically shows effects over weeks to months, not days. The Senilife studies tracked 30-70 day timeframes34. Pan et al. used 8 months for MCT supplementation7. Marketing claims about effects “within 7 days” should be read against the actual published research timelines.
Best Cognitive Support Supplements for Senior Dogs in 2026: Our Top 5 Picks
1. Nutramax Senilife Vet Strength
Best product-specific peer-reviewed evidence | Price: ~$40/30 capsules
Check Price on AmazonSenilife is the cognitive supplement with the most product-specific peer-reviewed evidence in canine cognitive research. The formulation (phosphatidylserine, ginkgo biloba, vitamin E, pyridoxine, with resveratrol added in newer formulations) is the same combination used in Araujo et al. 2008 and Osella et al. 200734. Both studies showed positive effects on cognitive measures, though both had small sample sizes and Osella was open-label rather than blinded. Independent veterinary commentary characterizes the evidence as supportive but limited in strength.
Key Features
Per-capsule formulation: phosphatidylserine 25 mg, ginkgo biloba extract 50 mg, vitamin E 33.5 mg, pyridoxine 20.5 mg, resveratrol (newer formulations). Dosing: one capsule per 5 kg body weight, matching the research protocol. Capsule format that can be administered whole or opened and sprinkled on food.
PROS:
- Product-specific peer-reviewed evidence (Araujo 2008, Osella 2007)
- Phosphatidylserine, the compound with the most published canine cognitive support evidence
- Dosing matches published research protocols
- Nutramax is the manufacturer of Cosequin and Dasuquin; manufacturing quality is established
- Compatible with most senior dog medication regimens (verify with veterinarian)
CONS:
- Evidence base is small studies (n=8-9 in cited papers)
- Premium per-capsule pricing compounds over sustained use
- Capsule format requires administration with food or sprinkling
- Ginkgo may interact with blood thinners and some seizure medications
Best for: senior dogs with early-to-moderate cognitive symptoms whose owners want the supplement with the strongest available product-specific research support, and dogs not currently on blood thinners or anticoagulants.
2. Zesty Paws Advanced Cognitive Support Bites
Best soft-chew multi-ingredient formulation | Price: ~$30/90 chews
Check Price on AmazonZesty Paws Advanced Cognitive Support Bites are a soft-chew multi-ingredient formulation combining several compounds with research support: omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA), B-complex vitamins, phosphatidylserine in lower doses than Senilife, and antioxidants. The product does not have the same product-specific clinical research as Senilife, but the ingredient list draws from compounds individually supported in canine cognitive research. NASC Quality Seal verified.
Key Features
Soft chew format for compliance. Multi-ingredient blend including phosphatidylserine, omega-3s, B vitamins, antioxidants. Chicken liver flavored. NASC Quality Seal. 90-chew bottle. Sized for dogs across weight ranges with weight-based dosing on label.
PROS:
- Soft chew format produces willing daily acceptance
- NASC Quality Seal verification
- Multi-mechanism formulation covers several research-supported pathways
- Moderate pricing for sustained use
- Includes omega-3 fatty acids in addition to phosphatidylserine
CONS:
- Phosphatidylserine dose lower than Senilife research protocol
- No product-specific clinical research
- Chicken liver flavoring unsuitable for poultry-sensitive dogs
- Calorie load from chew base requires reduction of treats
Best for: dogs that refuse capsules, owners who prioritize daily compliance over single-strain research backing, and senior dogs whose cognitive supplementation is part of a broader maintenance approach rather than acute intervention.
3. PetHonesty Hemp Calming + Cognitive Support
Best for owners specifically interested in hemp-based options | Price: ~$25/90 chews
Check Price on AmazonThis pick comes with important framing. Hemp and CBD products for dogs are widely available and increasingly popular, but the peer-reviewed efficacy evidence for cognitive dysfunction specifically is limited. The 2023 systematic review of supplements used in CCD identified hemp/CBD oil as one of the most commonly used owner-administered supplements (32 percent of CCD-affected dogs in one survey)9, but use frequency is not evidence of effectiveness. Many dogs with CCD also experience anxiety and sundowning, and hemp products are marketed for both. The combination claim should be read against modest evidence for either component in CCD specifically.
Key Features
Hemp seed oil (not CBD isolate). L-theanine for calming. Omega-3 fatty acids. B vitamins. Soft chew format. Chicken flavored. 90-chew bottle.
PROS:
- Soft chew format for compliance
- Includes L-theanine, which has some calming evidence base in dogs
- Hemp seed oil provides omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids
- Moderate pricing
- Addresses anxiety component that often accompanies CCD
CONS:
- Hemp efficacy evidence for canine cognitive dysfunction specifically is limited
- Hemp may affect drug metabolism; coordinate with veterinarian if dog is on prescriptions
- Phosphatidylserine, SAMe, or MCT (the better-evidenced compounds) are not the primary actives
- Combination approach may underperform dedicated cognitive supplements for cognitive symptoms specifically
Best for: owners specifically interested in hemp-based products who have discussed the use with their veterinarian, dogs whose anxiety symptoms are as prominent as cognitive symptoms, and households where simpler single-supplement routines matter more than ingredient-level optimization.
4. Vetri-Science Composure Pro
Best for sundowning and evening anxiety patterns | Price: ~$35/60 chews
Check Price on AmazonComposure Pro is not a cognitive supplement in the strict sense. It targets the anxiety and sleep-wake cycle disturbance that frequently accompany CCD. The formulation includes alpha-casozepine (a milk-derived peptide with calming effects), L-theanine, thiamine, and supportive compounds at therapeutic-level doses. For senior dogs with significant evening restlessness, nighttime pacing, or sundowning-pattern symptoms that disrupt household sleep, Composure Pro can be a meaningful adjunct alongside a dedicated cognitive supplement.
Key Features
Alpha-casozepine, L-theanine, thiamine. Soft chew format. Higher-dose (“Pro”) version compared to standard Composure. Weight-based dosing. NASC Quality Seal.
PROS:
- Targets sundowning and evening anxiety specifically
- Alpha-casozepine has some peer-reviewed evidence for canine anxiety
- Useful as adjunct to cognitive supplements addressing different mechanisms
- NASC Quality Seal
- Therapeutic-level dosing rather than maintenance dose
CONS:
- Not a cognitive supplement in the strict sense; addresses behavioral symptoms not underlying pathology
- Premium pricing for a sleep/anxiety adjunct
- 60-chew bottle requires frequent reorder for larger dogs
- May not address daytime cognitive symptoms
Best for: senior dogs whose CCD symptoms include disruptive evening restlessness, nighttime pacing, or sleep-wake reversal patterns, as an adjunct to a cognitive supplement rather than as a standalone CCD intervention.
5. Amazon Brand Wag Brain & Cognitive Support
Best entry-tier for prevention or trial use | Price: ~$18/90 chews
Check Price on AmazonWag Brain & Cognitive Support is the entry-tier option for owners testing cognitive supplementation without committing to premium pricing. The formulation covers basic ingredients (omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, antioxidants) at lower doses than premium alternatives. For dogs without confirmed CCD where supplementation is preventive rather than therapeutic, the cost-benefit math is more favorable than for dogs with active symptoms where dose strength matters more.
Key Features
Soft chew format. Basic multi-ingredient blend: omega-3s, B vitamins, antioxidants. Amazon Brand return policy. 90-chew bottle. Lowest per-chew cost among picks.
PROS:
- Lowest cost among picks
- Amazon Brand return policy supports trial use
- Adequate for preventive supplementation without confirmed symptoms
- Soft chew format for compliance
- Multi-ingredient coverage at entry-tier price
CONS:
- Lower active ingredient doses than premium alternatives
- Missing or minimal phosphatidylserine and SAMe (the better-evidenced compounds)
- Less established brand presence than dedicated supplement manufacturers
- Insufficient for dogs with significant cognitive symptoms requiring meaningful intervention
Best for: preventive supplementation in healthy senior dogs without confirmed CCD, budget-conscious owners testing whether cognitive supplementation appears helpful before committing to premium products, and multi-dog households where premium pricing compounds.
Which Cognitive Supplement Fits Your Senior Dog
The decision below maps your dog’s situation to the right pick. Read across your row.
| Your situation | Senilife | Zesty Paws | PetHonesty Hemp | Composure Pro | Wag |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Confirmed CCD by veterinary diagnosis | Best fit: strongest research | Workable: multi-ingredient | Workable: discuss with vet | Workable: behavioral adjunct only | Skip: doses sub-therapeutic for active CCD |
| Early DISHAA symptoms, no vet diagnosis yet | See your veterinarian first. Symptoms attributed to CCD can indicate other treatable conditions. Diagnosis comes before supplementation. | ||||
| Significant sundowning or evening restlessness | Workable: as cognitive primary | Workable: as cognitive primary | Workable: as combined intervention | Best fit: targets sundowning specifically | Skip: limited behavioral benefit |
| Dog refuses capsules | Workable: open capsule on food | Best fit: soft chew | Best fit: soft chew | Best fit: soft chew | Best fit: soft chew |
| On blood thinners or anticoagulants | Skip: ginkgo interaction | Workable: confirm with vet | Skip: hemp may affect coagulation | Best fit: cleanest interaction profile | Workable: confirm with vet |
| Healthy senior, preventive supplementation | Workable: research aligns with prevention | Workable: broad coverage | Workable: discuss with vet | Skip: not a prevention product | Best fit: lowest cost for trial use |
| Already on selegiline (Anipryl) prescription | Workable: combination approach | Workable: combination approach | Skip: hemp interaction concern | Workable: addresses different mechanism | Workable: low-dose adjunct |
Prices are approximate and shift with sales and seasonal promotions. Formulations and dosing may change. Verify current product specifications and consult your veterinarian before sustained use, particularly when adding supplements to existing medication regimens.
How to Use a Cognitive Support Supplement
Start with veterinary evaluation. Behavioral changes in senior dogs need diagnostic workup before supplementation. The 2023 AAHA Senior Care Guidelines recommend comprehensive senior wellness evaluation at least annually, with cognitive assessment as part of that workup10. The DISHAA framework helps owners identify symptoms but does not substitute for veterinary examination that rules out other conditions producing similar symptoms.
Match the supplement to the evidence base. Phosphatidylserine combinations (Senilife), SAMe (in dedicated SAMe supplements or Denamarin), and MCT (in Bright Mind diets or MCT-supplemented diets) have the most direct canine cognitive research. Multi-ingredient blends without product-specific research operate on indirect evidence. Both can be reasonable choices; knowing which category your supplement falls into is part of informed decision-making.
More on Supplements
Match the timeline to the research. Senilife studies tracked 30-70 days for measurable effects34. SAMe research used multi-week protocols5. MCT research used 8-month protocols7. Effects appearing within 7 days are unlikely to be the supplement; effects expected within months are aligned with how the research was conducted. Stopping a supplement after 2 weeks because “it didn’t work” is stopping before the published timeline for assessment.
Consider the full intervention stack. Environmental enrichment (puzzle feeders, varied daily routes, social interaction), regular gentle exercise, consistent daily schedule (which supports sleep-wake cycle), appropriate diet (Hill’s Prescription Diet b/d or Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind for veterinary-prescribed nutritional intervention), and selegiline (for confirmed CCD per veterinary prescription) all contribute. Supplements are one piece of the broader intervention.
Track symptoms before starting. Owners often cannot recall whether symptoms have actually improved without a baseline record. A simple weekly journal noting DISHAA symptoms before starting any intervention provides the reference point for evaluating whether the supplement is producing meaningful change. Without a baseline, attribution becomes guesswork.
When to See Your Veterinarian
Cognitive supplements are not substitutes for veterinary diagnosis and treatment. See your veterinarian rather than relying on supplementation alone in any of the following situations.
- First appearance of behavioral or cognitive changes in any senior dog, these warrant a workup before any supplementation
- Multiple DISHAA category symptoms occurring together
- Rapid progression of symptoms over days to weeks (typical CCD progression is slower)
- House-soiling in a previously trained dog, this can indicate CCD but also urinary tract infection, diabetes, kidney disease, or other treatable conditions
- Sleep disruption affecting household function, selegiline and prescription options may be appropriate
- Confusion alongside seizures, head pressing, or focal neurologic signs, these can indicate structural brain disease requiring imaging
- Any senior dog symptom that could indicate a treatable condition (dental pain, vision/hearing loss, hypothyroidism, joint pain, urinary infection, anxiety) requires diagnosis before being attributed to CCD
- Before adding a supplement to an existing medication regimen, particularly anticoagulants, antidepressants, and seizure medications
The 2023 AAHA Senior Care Guidelines recommend at minimum annual comprehensive examination for senior dogs, with semiannual exams for dogs with chronic conditions10. Cognitive symptoms warrant the more frequent schedule. Selegiline (Anipryl) is the only FDA-approved drug for CCD in the US, and your veterinarian can discuss whether it is appropriate for your dog alongside or instead of supplementation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cognitive supplements really help senior dogs?
The peer-reviewed evidence supports modest cognitive benefit from specific compounds (phosphatidylserine combinations, SAMe, MCT) in small clinical studies3457. The effect sizes are modest, the studies are small, and the strongest results come from products with product-specific research (Senilife) rather than generic “brain blends.” Supplements may slow progression as part of a broader plan; they do not reverse established CCD. Selegiline (Anipryl), the only FDA-approved drug for CCD, has more robust evidence than any supplement.
When should I start cognitive supplements for my senior dog?
After veterinary evaluation, not before. Symptoms attributed to CCD can indicate other treatable conditions including dental pain, vision/hearing loss, hypothyroidism, urinary tract infection, brain tumor, and joint pain. Starting supplements without a workup can delay the diagnosis your dog actually needs. Once CCD has been considered and other conditions ruled out, the research timelines suggest starting at the early-to-moderate stage produces better measurable effects than starting at advanced stages.
How long until I see results from cognitive supplements?
The published research timelines are weeks to months, not days. Senilife studies tracked 30-70 day timeframes34. MCT supplementation was studied over 8 months7. Marketing claims about effects within 7 days are not aligned with how the research was conducted. Tracking DISHAA symptoms with a written weekly log before starting provides the baseline needed to evaluate whether the supplement is producing actual change versus owner expectation.
What is selegiline, and should my dog be on it instead of supplements?
Selegiline (brand name Anipryl) is the only drug currently FDA-approved for the treatment of canine cognitive dysfunction. It works by inhibiting monoamine oxidase B and increasing dopamine in the brain. Evidence for selegiline in CCD is stronger than evidence for any supplement listed in this guide. The question of whether your dog should be on selegiline is a veterinary decision that depends on diagnosis, comorbidities, and other medications. Many veterinarians use selegiline alongside nutritional interventions, not instead of them.
Are there side effects from cognitive supplements?
Most cognitive supplements at appropriate doses produce minimal side effects in healthy dogs. Specific considerations: Ginkgo biloba has mild anticoagulant properties and should be avoided in dogs on blood thinners. Hemp and CBD products can affect drug metabolism. SAMe can interact with antidepressants and some pain medications. Phosphatidylserine alone has a favorable safety profile. Before starting any supplement for a senior dog on existing medications, consult your veterinarian for a compatibility review.
Can cognitive supplements prevent dementia in dogs?
The prevention evidence is weaker than the treatment evidence. Most cognitive supplement research has been conducted in dogs already showing cognitive impairment, rather than in healthy senior dogs for prevention. Healthy lifestyle factors with stronger general evidence include regular physical exercise, environmental enrichment, social interaction, and a consistent daily routine. Supplements may contribute, but are not a substitute for these broader interventions.
Can I use cognitive supplements alongside prescription medications?
Often yes, but compatibility depends on the specific medications. A combination of selegiline with nutritional interventions, including phosphatidylserine combinations, is a common veterinary practice. Also, a combination with serotonergic medications (some antidepressants used for behavioral conditions) and SAMe requires veterinary supervision because of potential serotonin syndrome concerns. A combination of ginkgo with anticoagulants is generally avoided. Discuss specific combinations with your veterinarian before adding any supplement.
What about Hill’s Prescription Diet b/d or Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind?
Both are nutritionally complete diets formulated for cognitive support, with product-specific research support. Hill’s b/d (veterinary prescription) is based on antioxidant research and showed cognitive benefits in clinical studies. Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind is based on the Pan et al. 2010 MCT research7. For dogs willing to switch diets, therapeutic nutrition may provide more comprehensive cognitive support than supplements alone. Talk to your veterinarian about whether a cognitive-supporting diet is appropriate for your dog.
Related Reading
Explore more: omega 3 supplements senior dogs, and cat joint supplements for senior cats.
Recommended Reading
See also our guides to omega 3 supplements senior dogs.
Sources
- Neilson JC, Hart BL, Cliff KD, Ruehl WW. Prevalence of behavioral changes associated with age-related cognitive impairment in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2001;218(11):1787-1791. View source
- Recent advances in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for canine cognitive dysfunction. Am J Vet Res. 2025;86(8). View source
- Araujo JA, Landsberg GM, Milgram NW, Miolo A. Improvement of short-term memory performance in aged beagles by a nutraceutical supplement containing phosphatidylserine, Ginkgo biloba, vitamin E, and pyridoxine. Can Vet J. 2008;49(4):379-385. View source
- Osella MC, Del Re G, Odore R, et al. Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome: prevalence, clinical signs and treatment with a neuroprotective nutraceutical. Appl Anim Behav Sci. 2007;105(4):297-310. View source
- Rème CA, Dramard V, Kern L, et al. Effect of S-adenosylmethionine tablets on the reduction of age-related mental decline in dogs: a double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Vet Ther. 2008;9(2):69-82. View source
- Landsberg GM, Nichol J, Araujo JA. Cognitive dysfunction syndrome: a disease of canine and feline brain aging. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2012;42(4):749-768. View source
- Pan Y, Larson B, Araujo JA, et al. Dietary supplementation with medium-chain TAG has long-lasting cognition-enhancing effects in aged dogs. Br J Nutr. 2010;103(12):1746-1754. View source
- National Animal Supplement Council. NASC Quality Seal Program. View source
- Investigating Owner Use of Dietary Supplements in Dogs with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. Animals (Basel). 2023. View source
- Dhaliwal R, Boynton E, Carrera-Justiz S, et al. 2023 AAHA Senior Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2023;59(1):1-21. View source