The advice below is sourced from both the valuable guidance shared by Dogs Trust in their support page here and the expertise of our in-house Vet Nurse team. Beyond offering health and wellbeing advice, our Vet Nurses are also here to provide compassionate support through our bereavement line if you ever need someone to talk to.
Losing a pet is heartbreaking for the whole family and for many of us we notice this often includes our dogs. They form strong bonds with their companions, and when one is no longer there, they may feel the loss deeply. Every dog is different, and the loss of a companion affects them in unique ways. We’re here to help with advice and support to make this tough time a little easier for you and your dog.
Do Dogs Grieve?
While experts are still undecided on whether dogs can understand death the same way as we do, it’s clear our dogs form deep bonds with their companions, and when one has passed away, they can feel the change. Some may seem unsettled, look for their friend, or seek extra comfort from you. Every dog reacts differently, so be patient and gentle as they adjust. 💛
Some common signs of grief include:
🐾 Loss of appetite
🐾 Changes in sleep patterns
🐾 Restlessness or searching for their companion
🐾 Craving extra attention
🐾 Increased vocalisation (whimpering, barking)
Changes in Behaviour
Grieving dogs may pace, whine, drool, refuse treats, or go off their food entirely. They might also become more withdrawn, or go the opposite way and want to spend more time with you.
Here are some ways to help monitor and support:
🐾 Offer extra comfort and reassurance
🐾 Try not to leave them alone for long periods
🐾 Use a pet camera to check on them when you're out
🐾 If their distress continues, consult your vet or a behaviourist
Keep Their Scent
Dogs rely heavily on scent for comfort, so taking away their companion’s bed or blanket right away could be tough on them. It can help to keep something with their scent on around the home for a little while longer to help ease the transition.
Help Other Pets Adjust
If you have a few pets, they may take time to settle into a new dynamic. Encourage gentle interactions, and keep an eye out for any changes in behaviour. If tensions rise or a pet becomes withdrawn, think about reaching out to a vet or vet nurse for some guidance (more on that below).
Little Ways to Help
🐾 Stick to Routine – Keeping mealtimes, walks, and playtime consistent helps create a sense of security.
🐾 New Experiences – Exploring new parks or learning a new trick can provide mental stimulation and a positive distraction.
🐾 Comfort Items – A cuddly toy, a warm blanket, or even one of your worn T-shirts can provide reassurance.
🐾 Calming Aids – Consider pheromone diffusers or calming treats to encourage relaxation.
Supporting You
Seeing your dog grieve while coping with your own loss can be incredibly tough. It’s okay to reach out for support, whether from friends, family, or a pet bereavement service.
Our team of vet nurses are available through our bereavement support line. Whether you have questions or just need someone to talk to, we’re here for you. You can book a call with us here.
With time, patience, and love, you and your dog will navigate this time together. If you are ready to and need to make changes to your plan, you can reach out to our team who will help to make the changes you need.
Alternatively, if you’d prefer not speak to anyone, you can also make these changes yourself. We have a little more detail about this here to lend a hand, along with additional articles within our help centre for making specific changes to your plan.
Helpful Additional Resources
(Additionally utilised for reference within this article)