Do Dogs Mourn the Loss of Other Dogs in the House?

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Our dogs, just like us, experience emotions deeply, and that includes mourning the loss of their furry friends.

If a dog in a household passes away, it can be heartbreaking not only for the humans but also for the surviving pets.

They may not understand what has happened, but they certainly feel the absence of their companion.

Let’s take a closer look at what happens when a pet is gone.

Signs of Mourning

You might notice some changes in your dog’s behavior after the loss of a friend.

They may become more withdrawn, lose interest in their favorite activities, or even seem a bit depressed.

Some dogs might search the house for their lost buddy or sit by their favorite spot, waiting for them to return.

These behaviors are normal and show just how much they cared for their friend.

Helping Your Dog Heal

To help your dog through this tough time, it’s important to provide extra love and attention.

Spend quality time together, engage in gentle play, or simply cuddle on the couch.

Routines can also be comforting, so try to keep their daily schedule as consistent as possible.

If your dog seems particularly distressed, consider introducing new activities or even a new friend when the time feels right.

However, don’t rush this process; give your dog the space they need to grieve.

Remembering Together

In my opinion, creating a special way to remember the lost dog can be a really beautiful gesture.

You might want to set up a small memorial in your home or share stories about the good times you all had together.

This can help both you and your dog find comfort in the memories.

Conclusion

In the end, our dogs are incredibly loving creatures who form strong bonds with us and their “friends”.

Mourning is a natural part of their emotional journey, and as a caring owner, your support can make all the difference.

Just remember, with time, love, and patience, both you and your furry friend will find a way to heal together.