Evaluation of the effects of daily husbandry practices on the prevention and progression of canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome

Abstract

Abstract This study aimed to identify daily husbandry factors associated with reduced incidence and progression of cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) without incurring treatment expenses. A questionnaire survey was conducted from February to April 2025 targeting owners of dogs aged ≥6 years in three Japanese prefectures. Dogs with at least one CDS evaluation item were classified into the CDS group, whereas dogs with no applicable items were classified into the non-CDS group. For both groups, questions were asked regarding the current age (or age at death if deceased), and following factors in the CDS onset and pre-onset ages: breed, spay/neuter history, size, and lineage. In the CDS group, the age at which CDS symptoms were first observed and the husbandry practices at that time were recorded. The husbandry items were as follows: frequency and content of feeding and treatment per day, body condition score (BCS), daily walking frequency, total daily walking duration and distance, total daily play time with the owner, total daily petting time, and social environment. Furthermore, respondents were asked about their husbandry practices when CDS symptoms were not observed. For the non-CDS group, husbandry practices were surveyed at both the current age and around the age of 5 years. Following previous reports, CDS severity was assessed using a scoring system. Statistical analyses were performed using a retrospective cohort design. First, a binary generalized linear model was used with the CDS and non-CDS groups as dependent variables to examine differences in husbandry practices and basic attributes. The Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient was used to assess the relationship between CDS severity and husbandry practices in the CDS group. Results showed that in 118 small- and medium-sized dogs, a higher BCS was associated with a 4.44-fold increased likelihood of CDS onset before 6 years of age. Increased feeding frequency and greater walking distances were associated with significantly lower odds of CDS onset. Notably, a longer walking duration before 6 years of age was correlated with slower CDS progression. These findings suggest that maintaining a low BCS, increasing feeding frequency in small portions, and providing longer walks after 6 years of age can reduce the likelihood of CDS onset. Furthermore, providing long walking durations before 5 years of age may help suppress CDS progression. Promoting early and sustained husbandry practices may enhance the quality of life of aging dogs and their owners, thereby supporting a One Welfare approach to companion animal care.