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Senior dogs are members of the shelter population, and identifying normal, successful aging versus cognitive dysfunction merits consideration. Factors like breed, size, and weight can affect how long dogs live, and as they age, they can display a number of normal age‐related declines in physical and mental functioning (Chapagain et al. 2018). Changes in levels of play and responsiveness to commands, enthusiasm for food, and increases in fears and phobias can be part of normal, successful aging (Salvin et al. 2011). Older dogs also display less social interest, diminished learning and memory, and less interest in novelty compared to young dogs (Kubinyi and Iotchev 2020). Normal aging can also affect a dog’s ability to cope with a social challenge such as a mild separation from an owner (Mongillo et al. 2013).

Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome differs from normal aging and is summarized by the acronym DISHA: “Disorientation, altered Interactions with people or other pets, Sleep–wake cycle alterations, House‐soiling and altered Activity level” (Landsberg et al. 2003). It parallels human dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Locomotion may be erratic or aimless, dogs may be less responsive to social isolation or interactions with people, and an increase in destructive behavior or house soiling may be observed (Chapagain et al. 2018). A therapeutic diet aimed at enhancing cognitive function as well as behavioral enrichment like participating in dog training activities are both promising interventions for delaying cognitive decline (Chapagain et al. 2018; Szabó et al. 2018). Awareness of the differences between normal aging and cognitive dysfunction can enhance care for older dogs entering the shelter.