• My nearly eighteen-year-old dog is acting strange: he doesn't eat the way he used to, his nose is dry, and he appears to forget what he is doing or where he is at times. For example, sometimes when he walks, he stops and appears lost. What could be causing this?

    Some older dogs can have cognitive dysfunction. This is a disease that is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in people. Sometimes they can get lost in a familiar environment. They can also be confused easily. There can be other causes for what you are describing as well.

    I recommend that you take your dog in to see your veterinarian. They can make sure that there is not an underlying issue that is causing the problems. If it is cognitive dysfunction, there are medications that can help.

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