Losing a dog is deeply emotional, not just for humans but often for other dogs in the household. Dogs are social animals capable of forming strong bonds, and when a companion passes, surviving pets may show changes in behaviour, mood, or routine.
While their responses may not mirror human grief exactly, experts suggest that many dogs experience a form of mourning that reflects their attachment and awareness of loss.
This article is for general informational purposes only. Canine behaviour can vary widely by breed, personality, and environment.
Dogs Are Highly Social And Perceptive Creatures
Kate LaSala, a companion animal death doula and certified trainer, explains that animals can and do grieve. We see it in the wild often with elephants, dolphins, and wolves. When any family member, human or animal, dies or becomes ill, everyone is aware of it.
Dogs’ incredible sense of smell likely makes them aware of changes before we are. Their perceptive nature means they notice shifts in household dynamics immediately. Social bonds run deep in canine packs, whether wild or domestic, making loss profoundly felt.
Understanding Death Versus Disappearance
According to LaSala, a dog’s response can be stronger if they were not present for the death. Dogs understand death, but they don’t understand disappearance.
If a companion is taken to the vet’s office to be euthanized and the resident pets don’t have a chance to see and smell the body, they’re left searching for their housemate. This confusion can prolong distress and anxiety. Allowing dogs to witness or sniff their deceased companion may provide closure and help them process the loss more naturally.
Recognizing Signs Your Dog Might Be Grieving
Alexandra Bassett, lead dog trainer and behaviour consultant at Dog Savvy, explains that grief manifests differently in each dog. Common signs that a dog may be struggling to adjust include loss of appetite or reduced interest in normal activities.
Acting withdrawn or lethargic is another indicator. Searching for the deceased companion around the home or waiting by doors shows confusion and longing. Out-of-character vocalizations such as increased whining or barking may also signal distress during this difficult adjustment period.
Stress From Routine Changes Can Mimic Mourning
LaSala cautions against assuming every behaviour is grief. Dogs are highly attuned to routines and human emotions, so changes in the household can cause stress that may appear as mourning.
When schedules shift or owners show sadness, dogs react to those disruptions. Their behaviour might reflect anxiety rather than grief itself. Separating environmental stressors from genuine mourning requires careful observation. Understanding this distinction helps owners respond appropriately, whether through reassurance, maintaining consistency, or providing extra comfort during transitions.
How to Support Your Grieving Dog
Owners can help surviving pets by maintaining routines, offering extra companionship, and creating opportunities for exercise and enrichment. Spending quiet time together and offering gentle reassurance helps both human and animal members navigate the grief period.
Longer walks, playtime, or social interactions with other dogs may benefit a struggling pet. Observing changes in behaviour allows you to adjust your approach. While we may never fully know what dogs feel, providing support and patience ensures they adjust as comfortably as possible.
