Do Dogs Really Grieve the Loss of Other Pets?

According to Scientific American, the short answer is yes, they do grieve. Studies conducted to understand grief within the animal kingdom caused researchers to hone in on a behavior-based definition for what a mourning process would look like in the wild. In short, how does grieving differ from any of the other day-to-day emotions displayed by the groups studied?

Here are their observations on what determined actual grieving the loss of a companion versus simply awareness of the loss:

• Initially, two (or more) animals have chosen to spend time together beyond survival-oriented behaviors, such as mating or foraging for food. So, they're buddies.
• Following the death of one animal, the survivor deviates from their normal routine. This could include a reduction in the time spent eating or sleeping. They may also adopt a stooped physical or facial expression that suggests depression. In the case of wolves, it’s noted that the iconic, communicative howl can devolve into a softer, mournful sound.

So, establishing a relationship or bond with one another is clearly key to grieving a loss. And this is akin to what our pets experience when they all sleep, eat, and play under the same roof. Which sets the tone for why grief and mourning are not unusual behaviors for our pets to display.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) concurs, and their behaviorists comment that although our pets may not grasp the concept of death, they’re highly aware of the absence of a companion and “disruption to their social structure”.

Recognizing that Your Pet is Grieving

Many of the signs that your dog is grieving are similar to those of humans. A loss of appetite, a lack of interest in day-to-day activities, sleeping more, and even whimpering or crying at random.

When it comes to signs more specific to the canine world, they can include pacing or “searching” for their companion in what used to be their usual hangout or napping places. Your pet may also become clingy with family members and exhibit a heightened sense of attachment.

How to Support Your Dog During the Grieving Process

AKC experts suggest the following steps to help your pet work through the grieving process:

• When they’re clingy, let them be clingy. Offer extra praise and lots of love.
• If they’re pacing incessantly, redirect that energy to extra playtime. Introduce puzzle toys and snuffle mats to keep them preoccupied.
• Maintain their routine to avoid further upset to what they understand to be “normal”. Feeding, waking up, walking, playtime, treat disbursement… staying on track offers stability during an unstable time for them.
• If possible, let them say goodbye to their companion’s body. While animals don’t understand death, they do understand loss, and this can help them process the fact that their friend is no longer with them. They haven’t just suddenly disappeared and are waiting to be found.
• Providing your dog with a soft, cuddly toy can also help them cope with loss. That plush, warm toy can offer sensory distraction from their loss and help with the transition into a life without their former playmate.

Remember, dogs are highly empathetic creatures, and while it’s okay for them to see you crying and upset, don’t let it become extreme. To see you highly distressed over the loss of a pet can oftentimes add to their anxiety. Take the time to comfort one another and work through your grief together.