The bond between dogs and their owners goes far beyond companionship and care. For many dogs, their owner is their reference figure, their emotional anchor, and their safe haven. When this connection is suddenly severed by death, the emotional impact on the animal can be significant.
But how do dogs deal with grief? Do they really understand loss? And most importantly, how can we help them through this process? In this article, we will explore these questions based on scientific studies and present effective strategies to ease your pet’s suffering.
Do Dogs Feel Grief? What Science Says
The idea that dogs experience grief is not just a sentimental observation. Behavioral studies show that dogs truly go through an emotional distress period after losing a loved one, whether human or another animal.
Studies on Canine Grief
ASPCA Study (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals): Researchers analyzed dog behavior after losing a canine companion and found that 66% exhibited behavioral changes, such as decreased appetite, reduced interest in play, and increased need for attention from surviving owners.
University of Padua, Italy: A recent study published in Scientific Reports examined how dogs react to their owners’ deaths. The study found that many dogs displayed anxiety, restlessness, and sleep disturbances after the loss.
Dogs may not understand death the way we do, but they perceive the absence and environmental changes. They notice the missing scent, voice, and routine with their owner, leading to an emotional response similar to human grief.
Signs That Your Dog Is Grieving
Just like humans, each dog processes grief differently. However, some common behaviors include:
✅ Change in appetite – Some dogs lose interest in food, while others may start overeating.
✅ Irregular sleep patterns – Your pet may sleep more than usual or, on the contrary, have trouble resting.
✅ Constantly searching for the owner – Some dogs look for their deceased owner around the house or in places they used to be together.
✅ Apathy and lack of interest – The dog may lose interest in toys, walks, and social interactions.
✅ Howling, whining, and unusual barking – Melancholic sounds can indicate they are feeling the absence.
✅ Extreme clinginess or isolation – Some dogs become more attached to remaining family members, while others withdraw.
If your dog exhibits one or more of these signs, they may be struggling with loss and need support to overcome this period.
How to Help Your Dog Cope with Grief
The good news is that dogs can overcome grief with the right support. Here are some effective strategies to help them through it:
- Keep Their Routine as Stable as Possible
Dogs are creatures of habit. Losing an owner is already a major change, so maintaining regular feeding, walking, and play schedules helps create a sense of security and predictability.
- Offer Extra Attention and Affection
Your pet may need more companionship and physical contact than usual. Dedicate extra time for petting, talking, and playing. Human presence can be an essential factor in a dog’s emotional recovery.
- Avoid Reinforcing Negative Behaviors
If the dog cries or isolates itself, it’s important to provide support but not reinforce anxious behaviors. If they seem very sad, encourage them with toys, treats, or activities without forcing interactions.
- Introduce New Activities and Stimuli
Activities like different walks, interactive toys, or even socialization with other dogs can help distract them and create new positive associations.
- Use Items with the Owner’s Scent
Blankets, clothing, or objects with the deceased owner’s scent can provide comfort to the dog, acting as an “invisible hug” during the adaptation period.
- Consider Adopting Another Pet (With Caution)
If the dog was very attached to the owner and has no other companions, getting a new pet might help them cope with grief. However, this decision should be carefully evaluated and made at the right time.
- Consult a Veterinarian if Needed
If grief lasts for more than a few weeks and the dog exhibits severe signs such as extreme weight loss or depressive behavior, a veterinarian may recommend supplements, synthetic pheromones, or even behavioral counseling.
Real Cases of Dogs Experiencing Grief
Canine grief has been widely documented in both famous and unknown dogs. A well-known example is Hachiko, the Japanese dog who waited at a train station for nearly ten years after his owner’s death.
Another famous case is Capitán, an Argentine dog who, after his owner’s death, began living in the cemetery next to the grave. Despite family efforts to bring him home, he always returned to the burial site.
These stories demonstrate how deeply dogs bond with their owners and how loss can affect them.
Conclusion: Time Heals, but Love Speeds Up the Process
Just like humans, dogs need time and support to overcome grief. Your role as their caregiver is to ensure they feel loved, safe, and encouraged to move forward.
Maintaining routine, providing affection, and seeking professional help if necessary are essential steps to helping your pet find happiness again.
If you know someone going through this situation, share this article! This information can make all the difference in helping a grieving dog during this difficult time.