Do Dogs Experience Grief?

Dogs, creatures of immense loyalty and affection, harbor deep emotional connections with both their human families and animal companions. These bonds often make us wonder whether dogs grieve like humans. After all, dogs have been known to experience sadness after losing a furry friend or human companion. Separation stress and grief can share very similar symptoms, making a permanent loss difficult to distinguish from a short separation. The main difference for dogs is the intensity and duration of the symptoms they might be experiencing. Like humans, a dog’s grief-related stress can have an unpredictable timeline. For some, it may only last a few months, while with other dogs, it could permanently change their personality and behavior. Whether you’re a dog or a human, the grief process can leave an indelible mark.

Can Dogs Experience Grief?

Dogs are emotionally intelligent beings. Even though they may not fully grasp the concept of death in the way that we do, they certainly can sense when a loved one is no longer present. For dogs, changes in scents, altered routines, and the emotional upheaval in the home are all tell-tale signals that a loss may have occurred. Dogs can experience grief, which can be exhibited through several symptoms.

Dog Grief Symptoms

Grief in dogs can express itself through various behavioral, emotional, and physical symptoms. Like people, a dog’s encounter with grief is uniquely their own. Some may exhibit one or more of the following symptoms.

Behavioral Changes

Notably, a grieving dog might withdraw from activities they once enjoyed, such as playing with their favorite toy or engaging in typical, enjoyable activities. There may be a noticeable decline in their appetite, or they may sleep much more than normal. Dogs may also seek out the lost companion’s favorite spot, like a chair, bed, or the surrounding area.

Emotional Signs

The emotional toll of grief can lead dogs to withdraw and seek solitude or, conversely, to become overly clingy, yearning for constant attention from their remaining family. Vocal expressions of their distress, through whining or howling, are not uncommon, serving as a poignant reminder of their distress.

Physical Symptoms

The stress associated with grief can also manifest physically, with dogs displaying signs of anxiety, such as pacing or excessive grooming. Their body language may change with a more subdued posture, and they may exhibit stress indicators like excessive licking, panting, or even a loss of fur.

It’s also possible for a dog to appear unaffected by the loss. Your veterinarian can offer assistance if you have concerns about any changes in your dog’s behavior.

Do Dogs Grieve Other Dogs?

When a dog loses the companionship of another dog, it can certainly have an impact on them. A 2022 study suggests that a dog can experience a change in behavior as they adjust to their new reality without a conspecific. Dogs can also pick up on the emotional state of grieving pet owners, which also can affect their behavior. A 2016 study found that a dog’s behavior change lasted less than six months on average after losing an animal companion.

Do Dogs Grieve Humans?

Dogs view their human families as integral parts of their pack, forming bonds that are deeply emotional and enduring. In fact, dogs view their owners as surrogate pack leaders. Research suggests that the dog/human bond is very similar to the attachment bonds that characterize a human caregiver/infant relationship.

Even though we may never fully know how a dog truly perceives a loss, they are certainly impacted by them. A dog’s response to losing a human companion can vary quite a bit. Some dogs may have a mild reaction, moving on with minimal impact on their lives. Others may have a much stronger reaction, which can leave them feeling lonely or lost, altering their behavior dramatically. Again, the grief experienced by other humans in the household will affect the dog’s behavior as well. After all, dogs are highly empathetic creatures and can pick up on the energy in their environment.

How to Help Your Grieving Dog

Supporting a grieving dog involves maintaining routines, providing comfort, and encouraging engagement with life. Here are five ways you can help:

Maintain Routine

Whether a dog has lost a furry companion or a pet parent, it could upend their normal routine. Reestablishing a consistent daily routine offers stability and a sense of normalcy, which is critical for a dog's emotional well-being during times of grief. For example, it helps to establish regular feeding times, playtimes, and walks to help your dog readjust to their new life.

Provide Extra Comfort and Attention

Just like humans, dogs need attention, love, and support to get through challenging times.
Increased physical contact, such as petting, cuddling, and spending quality time together, can offer immense comfort to a grieving dog, reinforcing their sense of security and belonging.

Encourage Physical Activity

Regular, engaging activities are essential for diverting a dog's attention from their loss and promoting emotional healing. Activities should be tailored to the dog's interests and energy levels, ensuring they provide a positive outlet for their emotions.

Introduce New Activities or Toys

Introducing new stimuli, such as toys or engaging in new forms of play, can spark curiosity and interest, helping to alleviate the cloud of grief.

Consider Social Interactions

For dogs that enjoy the company of others, carefully introducing new pets or arranging playdates with familiar dogs can provide social support and companionship, aiding in the healing process.

As valued members of our households, dogs are by our side through the best and worst moments of our lives. Adjusting to life after losing a loved one can, in some ways, be as challenging for your beloved dog as it is for you. With patience, care, and companionship, you can help them find their way forward.