Understand Your Dog’s Grief
Dogs form strong bonds with their human and canine companions, so when they lose one of them, they feel that loss intensely, much like humans do. According to the ASPCA, after the loss of a beloved companion, dogs may show signs of grief including lethargy, loss of appetite, restlessness, sleep disturbances, and even barking or howling.
The grieving process is unique for each dog. Some may withdraw and become quiet and inactive, while others may become more clingy or anxious. There is no set timeline for grief – some dogs may adjust within weeks, while others may take months or more to return to their old happy selves.
Being aware of the grieving process and respecting your dog’s needs is important. With time and your support, most dogs are able to adjust to the loss, especially as they form new routines and relationships. But be patient – allow your dog to work through their grief in their own way.
(Source: https://www.helpguide.org/articles/grief/coping-with-losing-a-pet.htm)
Create a Comforting Routine
Maintaining your dog’s daily routines, such as regular feeding times, walks, and playtime, can provide comfort and stability after the loss of a canine companion. Dogs thrive on predictability, so keeping a consistent schedule helps grieving dogs feel more secure. Make sure to stick to the same wake-up time, walk schedule, mealtimes, and bedtime.
It’s also important to work some extra affection and cuddling into your grieving dog’s regular routine. The loss of a fellow canine companion can leave dogs feeling lonely, so increasing physical comfort and contact helps reassure them. Set aside some dedicated one-on-one time for petting, brushing, massaging, or just sitting together on the couch. The extra bonding time will help your dog feel loved.
Overall, preserving your dog’s routines with the addition of extra love and comfort helps provide stability and reassurance during the difficult grieving process. By maintaining consistency and showing affection, you can help your dog cope with the loss and readjust to daily life without their companion.
Allow the Dog to Grieve
It’s important to give your dog time to grieve in their own way. Dogs form strong bonds and the loss of a companion can be very difficult. Don’t force your dog to go back to normal activities right away if they seem hesitant or withdrawn. It’s normal for a grieving dog to show less interest in play, have a reduced appetite, or seem more subdued. Be patient and allow them to work through the grieving process.
Some signs your dog is grieving include: crying or whining more than usual, loss of interest in toys or walks, restless pacing or searching for the lost companion, loss of housetraining, and clinginess. It’s okay to comfort your dog, but also give them alone time if needed. The grieving process is highly individual for dogs, so give yours space to grieve in their own way without forcing normalcy. With time and support, most dogs will start to recover from the loss, but the important thing is not to rush them. Be patient and understanding as your dog grieves the loss of their companion.
Help Your Dog Adjust
The loss of a canine companion can be extremely difficult for dogs. It’s important to help your dog gradually adjust to life without their friend. According to Dog’s Trust, you can help your dog adjust by slowly reintroducing their normal toys, walks, and social interactions. Don’t force too much too soon, as this may overwhelm your grieving pup. Take small steps back to their routine.
You may also consider getting new dog toys, bedding, food bowls, and other items that were shared with the past dog. The smells of these old items can be very triggering for a grieving dog, so replacing them with new versions can help your dog adjust. According to Old Dog Haven, making these changes gradually over time will ease the transition process.
Above all, be patient and compassionate. With your help, your dog can adapt at their own pace to life after losing their companion.
Provide Plenty of Attention
When a dog is grieving the loss of a companion, it is important to provide them with plenty of attention and affection. Spending quality one-on-one time together can help comfort a grieving dog. Set aside time each day to focus on your dog and give them your undivided attention.
Dogs crave attention from their owners, especially during difficult times. Shower your dog with affection by giving them hugs, cuddles, and pets. Speak to them in a soothing, comforting voice. Let them sit on your lap while you watch TV or read. Engage them in playtime with fetch, tug-of-war or interactive toys. The goal is to keep your dog engaged and help strengthen your bond.
You may need to be more available during this time. If possible, spend more time at home with your dog. Take them on extra walks, car rides, or other outings they enjoy. The more positive interactions you share, the more secure and comforted your dog will feel.
While nothing can replace a lost companion, focusing love and attention on your grieving dog can provide solace. With time and your support, they can learn to adjust to life without their friend.
Maintain Socialization
It’s important for your dog’s mental health to stay socially active after losing a canine companion. Set up dog play dates with neighborhood or family dogs that your dog is familiar and comfortable with. Going on walks around other dogs and humans can also provide mental stimulation. According to Do Dogs Mourn? – VCA Animal Hospitals, maintaining your dog’s typical routine as much as possible will help with the grieving process. Making an effort to keep your dog socially engaged with familiar dogs and people will provide comfort and distraction during this difficult transition.
Try to regularly schedule play dates or walks in places your dog enjoys. Don’t force interactions, but gently encourage your dog to participate in positive social experiences. Socialization helps prevent depression and behavioral issues that sometimes arise when a dog is grieving. With time and patience, your dog can learn to take comfort in old friendships as you both adjust to life without the lost loved one.
Consider a New Companion
After losing a beloved canine friend, it’s natural to consider getting a new dog for companionship. However, according to the AKC, it’s important to wait until your dog has had time to properly grieve before introducing a new companion. Pushing a new dog on a grieving pup too soon could lead to rejection or other negative behaviors.
Give your dog ample time to adjust to life without their friend. Signs they may be ready could include increased playfulness, energy, and interest in toys or walks again. When the timing seems right, begin introducing a new potential companion slowly. First let the dogs meet on walks or at a park before bringing the new dog home. Slow introductions with positive reinforcement can help the dogs warm up to each other and bond.
While a new friend can’t replace a lost companion, when introduced properly at the right time, a new pup can help bring joy and comfort after losing a beloved pet. Proceed with empathy and patience to make the transition positive for all.
Try Supplements
Supplements like calming treats or pheromone diffusers can help relieve your dog’s anxiety. Ask your veterinarian about trying chamomile treats, CBD oil, melatonin, or a synthetic pheromone product. These options may help calm your dog and ease the grieving process. Just be sure to follow dosage recommendations carefully.
According to Pet Essences, their depression and grieving formula with flower essences is designed to help dogs recover from loss. Additionally, calming supplements like chamomile or CBD treats can provide comfort during this difficult transition. However, always check with your vet before introducing any new supplements.
Provide Mental Stimulation
Mental exercise can help distract grieving dogs and provide intellectual stimulation. Try using puzzle toys that require your dog to maneuver handles or compartments to access treats inside. These provide an excellent way to engage your dog’s mind and reward them when they solve each challenge.
You can also hide treats around the house and encourage your dog to hunt for them by sniffing them out. Start with easy-to-find locations first to build confidence. Then gradually increase the difficulty by hiding treats in harder spots. The searching behavior and reward of finding each treat provides excellent mental stimulation for dogs.
Additionally, consider brushing up on training commands or teaching your dog new tricks. The training process is mentally engaging, and mastering new skills gives dogs a sense of purpose during this difficult transition. Focus on positive reinforcement techniques and keep training sessions short, fun, and rewarding.
According to this article, mental stimulation through games, training, and puzzle toys can help lift a grieving dog’s spirits and prevent boredom or depression.
Monitor Your Dog Closely
It’s important to keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior and mood after the loss of a companion. Grief can manifest in different ways in dogs, so look out for changes like reduced appetite, lethargy, anxiety, restlessness, and changes in sleep patterns. While it’s normal for dogs to grieve, excessive or prolonged grieving is unhealthy. Contact your veterinarian if your dog stops eating, seems depressed, exhibits obsessive behaviors, or shows other extreme signs of grief for more than 2 weeks. Your vet can assess if medication may help during this difficult transition or if your dog would benefit from a pheromone collar to reduce stress. It’s also a good idea to inform your vet of the loss so they can monitor your dog accordingly during routine checkups. With attentive monitoring and proactive care, you can ensure your dog grieves healthily while adjusting to the loss.