What Is Sundowners Syndrome in Dogs? A Complete Guide

What is sundowners syndrome in dogs, and why does your older dog act so strange when the sun goes down?

It's 2 AM and you were looking forward to a good night's sleep.

Your senior dog is pacing the hallway. They're whining at shadows. Or staring at the wall like they've never seen it before.

You're tired. You're worried. And you're wondering what's wrong with your Fluffy Friend.

Here's the truth: You're not doing anything wrong.

This is a real medical problem that happens to many older dogs.

It's called sundowners syndrome.

Vets also call it canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome or CCD (that's just a fancy way of saying your dog's brain is getting older and confused).

This guide will help you understand what's happening.

You'll learn how to spot the signs.

And most importantly, you'll learn how to help your aging dog feel better.

What Is Sundowners Syndrome in Dogs?

Sundowners syndrome is when older dogs get confused and upset in the evening and at night.

It's a type of canine cognitive dysfunction. That means their brain doesn't work as well as it used to.

Think of it like this: You know how some older adults get Alzheimer's disease and forget things?

Dogs can get something similar. Their brain cells get damaged.

They forget where they are. They don't remember their normal routines.

Why is it called "sundowning?" Because it gets worse when the sun goes down.

Many pet parents notice their old dog starts acting strange in late afternoon or early evening.

The problems continue through the night hours.

This is NOT just "getting old." Yes, all dogs slow down as they age.

But sundowners syndrome is different. It's actual changes happening in your dog's brain.

Your dog needs help, not just patience.

Which Dogs Get Sundowners Syndrome?

• Older dogs get it most: This usually happens to dogs who are 8 years of age or older. As dogs enter their golden years, their chance of brain problems goes up.

• Any dog can get it: Big dogs, small dogs, mixed breeds, purebreds - it doesn't matter. All senior dogs are at risk.

• It's pretty common: Studies show that 14-35% of senior dogs have at least one sign of this problem. If your dog is over 11 years old, the chances are even higher.

• Bigger dogs might show signs earlier: Large dogs don't live as long. So they might act confused at 6-7 years old. Smaller dogs might not show signs until they're 10 or older.

Why Does This Happen? What's Going On in Your Dog's Brain?

Brain Changes in Older Dogs

Here's what happens as your dog ages:

• Bad proteins build up: Junk proteins collect between brain cells (just like in people with Alzheimer's disease)

• Brain cells die: The cells that help your dog think and remember slowly die off

• Less blood flow: Not enough oxygen gets to the dog's brain

• Damage from free radicals: These are like rust in the brain - they cause oxidative stress and hurt brain cells

• Broken connections: The pathways between brain cells break down

All of this equals cognitive decline. That means your dog's brain just doesn't work as well anymore.

Why Nighttime Makes It Worse

Other Things That Make It Worse

Several age-related changes can make the confusion even worse:

• Can't see or hear well: If your dog's eyes or ears don't work right, everything is scarier in the dark

• Body hurts: Pain from arthritis makes dogs restless

• Not sleeping during the day: If they don't sleep well during the day, they're extra tired and confused at night

• Other health problems: Things like thyroid issues or diabetes can affect how your dog acts

Related: What is Dog Boarding? Stress-Free New Year's Pet Care

Warning Signs: How to Tell If Your Dog Has Sundowners

What You'll See at Night

• Pacing back and forth: Your dog walks the same path over and over. They can't seem to stop.

• Can't settle down: They keep getting up and lying down. They're restless all night.

• Barking or whining for no reason: There's no apparent reason. They just make noise through the middle of the night.

• Waking up a lot: They wake up confused over and over again.

• Wandering around: They walk around with no clear goal. Just wandering.

Signs Your Dog Is Confused

Behavioral Changes

• Extra clingy: Following you everywhere. They show signs of anxiety when you leave the room.
• Mood changes: Getting snappy or grumpy when they used to be sweet.
• Not wanting pets: Pulling away from family members they used to love.
• Bathroom accidents: Peeing or pooping inside, even though they've been house trained for years.
• Sleeping all day, awake all night: Their sleep patterns are totally backwards.

These are the common symptoms of sundowners syndrome.

Some days will be better than others.

Is It Sundowners or Something Else?

Many health problems look like sundowners. This chart helps you tell the difference:

Many senior dogs have more than one problem at the same time. Always take your dog to the vet to find out what's really wrong.

Important: Brain tumors, kidney disease, diabetes, and thyroid problems can all make your dog act weird. Your vet needs to check for these underlying medical conditions first.

What You Can Do Tonight to Help

Keep Your Dog Safe First

Before anything else, make sure your confused dog can't get hurt:

• Block the stairs: Use baby gates so they can't fall down stairs

• Clear the floor: Move toys, shoes, and furniture out of walking paths

• Lock up dangerous areas: Keep them away from pools, balconies, or rooms with sharp things

• Make a safe zone: Set up one quiet room or area where they can't get into trouble at night

Changes That Help Right Away

Tools That Calm Anxious Dogs

• Calming sprays: Products like Adaptil release special dog smells that calm them down. Just plug it into the wall.

• Comfy support: The MrFluffyFriend Orthopedic Pillow gives extra cushioning for older dogs. Remember that senior dogs with neck pain sleep better with good support.

• Your smell: Put an old t-shirt you've worn near their bed. Your scent is comforting.

• Brain games: Puzzle toys during the day give their brain a workout. This environmental enrichment helps keep their mind sharp.

Sleep Helpers (Ask Your Vet First!)

Some things can help your dog sleep better.

But ALWAYS talk to your vet before giving your dog anything new:

• Melatonin: This is a natural sleep hormone. It might help reset their internal clock. Your vet will tell you the right amount.

• CBD oil: Some pet owners say this helps with anxiety. But we need more research.

• Prescription medications: Your vet might give anti-anxiety medications for really bad cases.

Daily Habits That Make Nights Better

What to Do During the Day

What happens during the day affects how your dog acts at night.

Here's what helps:

Exercise:

• Move every day: Take your senior pet for slow walks. Do this earlier in the day, not right before bed. Regular physical exercise helps blood flow to the brain and keeps them healthy.

Keep Their Brain Active

Using your dog's brain during the day is one of the best ways to slow down cognitive decline:

Food and Supplements for Brain Health

The right food can help your dog's brain work better:

Bedtime Routine

Do the same things before bed to avoid a restless night:

Related: Senior Dog Sleeps All Day: Should You Worry?

When to Take Your Dog to the Vet

Don't Guess! It's Always a Good Idea to Get Help

Lots of medical issues can make your dog act confused.

Your vet needs to check for:

• Bladder infections: These make dogs have accidents and feel uncomfortable

• Arthritis: Joint pain makes it hard to lie down and stay still

• Can't see or hear: Vision and hearing loss make everything scarier

• Thyroid problems: This affects mood, energy, and sleep

• Diabetes: Makes them thirsty and need to pee more at night

• Brain tumors: These are serious and need treatment right away

• Kidney or liver disease: These change how your dog acts and feels

What the Vet Will Do

A good checkup includes:

• Full body exam: Checking for chronic pain, lumps, and general health

• Blood tests: Making sure organs are working right

• Pee test: Checking for infections

• Behavior questions: The vet will ask detailed questions about what your dog does and when

• Brain and nerve tests: Checking how your dog moves and responds

Medicines That Can Help

Your vet might suggest:

• Anipryl® (selegiline): This is the only medicine approved by the FDA for canine dementia. It helps many dogs feel less confused.

• Calming medicines: Things like trazodone or gabapentin for really bad nighttime anxiety.

• SAMe pills: These support the brain.

• Special prescription food: Veterinary diets made just for older dogs with brain problems.

• Pain pills: If arthritis is making things worse, pain relief helps a lot.

Why Going Early Matters

Don't wait until symptoms are really bad:

• Medicine works better when you start it early

• You can slow down how fast the problem gets worse

• Early help means more good years for your furry friend

• The right care keeps your bond strong

Taking the first step and calling your vet is important. Timely intervention makes a real difference.

What Will Happen Over Time?

The Problem Gets Worse Slowly

Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome is what doctors call "progressive."

That means it gets worse bit by bit over months or years:

• Early on: A little confused sometimes. Occasional weird behavior. Small changes in sleep patterns.

• Middle stage: More frequent symptoms of sundowners. More anxiety. Clear memory loss.

• Late stage: Very confused a lot of the time. Big behavior issues. Might not know family members.

But There's Still Hope

Even though there's no cure, many dogs live happy lives for years:

• Every dog is different: Some get worse slowly over many years. Others change faster.

• Good days and bad days: Some weeks are better than others.

• Comfort matters most: Focus on making your dog comfortable and safe, not on how long they live.

• You really can help: Good care makes every day better.

What "Good Care" Looks Like

With the right help, many senior dogs do pretty well:

• They know their family

• They have more calm nights than bad ones

• They still enjoy food, walks, and love

• Their anxiety isn't too bad

• They're comfortable, even if a little confused

Taking Care of Yourself Too

This Is Hard on You

Watching your dog struggle is heartbreaking:

• You get tired too: Lack of sleep and worry hurt your health

• You might feel sad: It's normal to miss the dog they used to be, even while they're still here

• You might feel guilty: Feeling frustrated is normal. It doesn't mean you're a bad pet owner.

• You're doing great: Even on terrible nights, being there helps your dog

Ways to Help Yourself

Taking care of you helps you take care of your dog:

• Share the work: Take turns with family members so everyone gets sleep

• Ask for help: Friends or pet sitters can give you breaks

• Be realistic: You can't fix every confused moment

• Notice the good stuff: A peaceful hour matters. A good walk matters. A tail wag matters.

• Find other dog owners: Support groups help. Other people get it.

When It Might Be Time to Say Goodbye

This is the hardest part. Eventually, you might need to think about your dog's quality of life:

• Are the bad days winning? Is your dog upset or uncomfortable most of the time?

• Do they still have joy? Do they like anything anymore - food, walks, your touch?

• Is anything working? Have you tried medicine and changes without much help?

• Is it safe? Are they getting hurt during their confused times?

• What does the vet think? Your vet can help you understand if your dog is suffering.

There's no perfect answer.

But when the bad times outnumber the good times by a lot, it might be time.

When confusion causes constant pain instead of just occasional episodes, you might need to let them go peacefully.

This is the hardest decision. But sometimes it's the kindest thing you can do.

Your vet will help you through this.

The first step is always the hardest - but you don't have to do it alone.

Related: Best Dog Bed for Senior Dogs with Arthritis: Complete Guide

Questions People Ask About Sundowners

Can you cure sundowners syndrome in dogs?+

No, you can't cure it or make it go away completely. The brain changes are permanent. But you can help your dog feel better. Medicine, supplements, schedule changes, and a calm home can reduce symptoms a lot. Starting a treatment plan at the first signs gives you the best chance of keeping your dog's quality of life good for longer.

Does sundowning hurt my dog?+

The sundowners syndrome itself doesn't cause physical pain. But the confusion and worry do upset your furry friend. Other problems like arthritis often feel worse at night, which can make them pace more. A vet visit can find and treat pain, often improving nighttime symptoms.

How long does the pacing last each night?+

It varies by dog and night. Some senior dogs pace for 30 minutes to a few hours, others are restless most of the night. Symptoms usually worsen over time, but good care can make it more manageable. Most dogs eventually calm down with help.

When should I think about giving my dog medicine?+

Talk to your vet about medicine when:

• The behavior changes make your dog really upset for hours
• They're wandering in dangerous ways
• Nobody in your house can sleep
• Signs of anxiety don't improve with schedule changes and nightlights

Your vet can advise on prescription medications like Anipryl or calming medicines for your dog.

How do I help my dog sleep all night?+

Ways to improve nighttime sleep:

• Follow the same calming routine nightly at the same time
• Ensure comfort and reduce pain with good orthopedic bedding
• Use warm nightlights to minimize shadows
• Maintain the same daily schedule for food, walks, and play
• Give brain games and enough exercise during the day
• Try white noise to cover scary sounds
• Ask your vet about safe sleep helpers like melatonin if needed

What's the difference between normal old age and sundowners?+

Normal old age: Slowing down, sleeping more, mild trouble with eyes or ears, taking longer to learn things.

Sundowners syndrome: Confusion, personality changes, forgetting people or places, bathroom accidents inside, major sleep pattern changes, anxiety at night, repetitive behaviors. These are clinical signs of real brain changes and are not normal age-related changes. Veterinary care is needed.

Does food really help?+

Yes! The right canine diet can support brain health. Special senior diets may include:

• Medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) for brain energy
• Omega-3 fatty acids to maintain healthy brain cells
• Antioxidants like vitamin E to fight oxidative stress
• B vitamins to support normal brain function

Studies show dogs on these diets often think better and have fewer cognitive symptoms than dogs on regular food.

Will my dog still know who I am?+

In early and middle stages, most dogs still recognize their family. Late-stage cognitive decline may cause moments of confusion, but dogs usually respond to your voice, touch, and gentleness even if they don’t fully remember you.

How do I know when it's time to let go?+

Consider the following:

• More bad days than good? Is your dog upset or uncomfortable most of the time?
• No more happiness? Do they still enjoy food, walks, pets?
• Nothing helps? Have medicines and changes failed?
• Safety concerns? Are they hurting themselves when confused?
• Vet's opinion? What does your veterinarian think about their suffering?

There's no perfect answer. But when your dog has lost more than they still have, or confusion causes constant upset, it may be time to consider letting them cross the rainbow bridge peacefully. Trust your knowledge and your vet’s guidance during this difficult decision.

Important Things to Remember

Keep these points in mind:

1. This is a real medical problem: It's canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome, not your dog being bad or you being a bad owner.
2. Get help early: The first step is noticing signs of sundowners syndrome and taking your dog to the vet quickly.
3. Use multiple strategies: Routines, home adjustments, proper diet, supplements, and medication as needed.
4. Focus on comfort: You can't cure cognitive decline. But you can make your dog's quality of life way better.
5. Many dogs go through this: You're not alone. Lots of senior dogs have these symptoms. Many dog owners are dealing with the same things.
6. Small things help a lot: Nightlights, comfy beds (like MrFluffyFriend's orthopedic beds), same routine - these simple things really work.
7. Take care of you too: When you take care of yourself, you can take better care of your aging dog.
8. Comfort matters more than time: Focus on making your furry friend's remaining years comfortable, safe, and full of love.

Final Thoughts: Your Love Still Matters

Your calm voice when they're lost.

Being there when they're scared.

All of this reaches them.

You're giving your canine companion exactly what they need: safety, comfort, and knowing they're not alone.

That's what real love looks like.

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