Choline Supplements May Treat Canine Cognitive Dysfunction

Choline is a seldom talked about supplement, but is actually a powerhouse for your dog’s brain. From what I remember during my college nutrition course, choline was recently considered an essential nutrient and it’s commonly called vitamin B4. Choline is considered an essential nutrient in dogs too. Interestingly, the importance of choline supplements was reintroduced during a recent visit to my veterinarian and I want to share why.

What Choline Does to Your Dog’s Brain

Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. Older dogs with CCD have odd sleeping behaviors; they’ll wander around at night and sleep during the day. Sometimes, dogs with CCD lose control of their bowels, seem lost in their own backyards or even stare into space.

Choline supplementation can help reverse canine cognitive dysfunction. The supplement prevents CCD from happening. Research studies suggest “[Choline] is only moderately effective, [yet] clinical experience suggests that when used in older pets, it may actually prevent clinical signs of cognitive disorder” (Marsden, Messonnier & Yuill, n.d.). Interestingly, other studies have shown that choline supplementation decreased and even reversed CCD in older dogs (Marsden, Messonnier & Yuill, n.d.).

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How Choline Supplements Helped My Dog

Many years ago, my 17-year-old Bull Terrier was acting oddly. She became agitated quickly and was restless at night. She’d get lost in our bathroom, and then panic when she couldn’t walk forward. She ate and drank normally, but stared at walls and didn’t seem engaged with us and our other dogs. I discussed her odd behaviors with my veterinarian, and my vet recommended Standard Process Choline supplements.

I was a bit skeptical at first, but I noticed a huge improvement in my dog’s behavior within a week of supplementation. Now, my dog was able to sleep through the night and her unprovoked agitation reduced dramatically.

Speak With Your Vet First

Before starting any type of supplementation, please discuss your dog’s behavior with your veterinarian first. Liver and eggs are excellent sources of choline for both dogs and humans, but choline supplementation works well too. Your vet will guide you in the right direction.