Senior dog barking

[Allfurcoatandnoknickers]

We have a 10yo JRT cross. This last few months her anxiety with some noises have increased, and now every night she will bark for around 20-30 minutes before eventually settling down. We’ve put the radio on, bought a nightlight, used calming music, tried valerian and skullcap etc etc and nothing is helping. The vet has suggested it could be the start of dementia but not sure if there’s anything we can do?

Where do they sleep and when does the barking start? When do you put the radio on- what is the routine?

Both dogs have always slept in the kitchen/dining room and the routine is wee, biscuit nightlight on, radio/music on and lights out.
Last night there were some fireworks going off but she was about the same as she always is and had had Xanax to help her with them.
I went back in to see her and she was sat up in bed. I wonder if she has become scared of the dark. She’s had a recent vet check and is fit and healthy- she’s and extremely fit 10 year old and still very active .

Meant to say there that the barking starts the second I turn the light out and close the door so I’m sure it’s a separation anxiety/fear based thing.

Hi OP just checking in to see how you are doing? My almost 10yr old cocker has started similar behaviour at night

I lost my boy today, and one of his many ailments was canine cognitive dysfunction, aka dog dementia.

I highly recommend getting your vet to prescribe selgian. It made a massive difference. Also gabapentin