Do dogs grief the loss of fellow canines? Or when they lose their owners? We have compiled information about grieving in dogs.
Can dogs grief?
Whether dogs can experience grief is not scientifically settled. Many dog owners would immediately say yes because they’ve witnessed their four-legged friend grieving the loss of a pack member or acting completely distraught after a child moves out.
Biologists, at least, go so far as to say: Yes, animals grieve. Especially those that typically live in social groups and form long-term bonds with offspring, relatives, and/or partners. This includes not only dogs but also dolphins, whales, elephants, and primates (monkeys). Dogs (and cats) measurably change their behavior when a close household member dies, and it is not unreasonable to characterize this as grieving. However, we don’t know how our dog feels when mourning or if it’s the same type of grief that a human experiences.
One may question whether an animal understands the finality of death. Still, the absence of a familiar fellow creature that provided security, closeness, and companionship undoubtedly causes pain. For instance, a dog may mourn the loss of a female companion who offered company, playmate, and even a mating partner.
How can I tell if my dog is grieving?
Grieving usually occurs in phases, from the initial “This can’t be happening” (protest phase) to a seemingly depressive withdrawal (desperation phase). Typically, this is followed by a gradual return to normal life, step by step. However, some individuals, be they human or animal, linger in withdrawal and may require assistance.
The following behaviors may occur and, combined with the death or departure of a fellow creature or a beloved person, indicate grieving:
- The dog eats hesitantly or not at all.
- The animal appears restless, wanders around, often withdraws, and sleeps more.
- Playfulness and general expressions of joy, such as wagging the tail, decrease.
- Your furry friend seeks your company more, wants to cuddle extensively, or simply won’t leave your side. Being alone is poorly tolerated.
- Conflicts among the remaining pack members occur frequently as the hierarchy needs to be reevaluated.
- Other behaviors or habits may suddenly change.
Some dogs mourn the loss of another dog less than the loss of their owner. This is explained by the fact that it’s not only the person that’s missing but also the familiar routines, feeding schedule, walks, etc. that disappear. Often, a move to a new home is imminent, adding additional stress. Moreover, our domestic dogs are typically much more dependent on “their” human than on their pack mates.
When Dogs Mourn: How Can I Help?
Is your dog mourning? Here’s how you can support them: Be especially sensitive to what they need right now. Here are some tips to make the farewell a little easier:
- Say goodbye: If possible, let your dog say goodbye. Let them sniff the departed companion one last time – animals understand that their friend is gone. Leave familiar blankets or, in the case of humans, clothing or shoes lying around for a while and then gradually put them away. This process might be slower than you’d prefer, as a pet owner may feel the urge to quickly hide everything away.
- Lots of cuddling: Pay extra attention to your furry friend’s needs during this time. If they want peace, give it to them. If they seek cuddles, offer them more time than usual for petting, brushing, etc.
- Provide reassurance: While it’s natural for you to mourn the loss of someone important, try to offer your furry companion as much security, peace, and normalcy as possible. This significantly reduces stress for them. This includes maintaining regular walks and feeding times. Dogs tend to grieve less intensely when their owner provides stability.
- Allow mourning rituals: If your dog is mourning and sits by the door every day looking for their partner, don’t discourage them. This behavior usually fades on its own over time, but you can try distracting them with games.
- Activate: After some time of mourning, try to get your dog back into action. Long walks, perhaps to new places, new games, or walks with other dogs, can revive their spirits and distract them to some extent.
My dog is grieving: What is normal?
Experience shows that dogs grieve to varying degrees and for different durations. Therefore, there’s no one-size-fits-all rule. Grieving behavior typically resolves in less than six months. If your dog mourns for an extended period, seems to suffer greatly, loses weight, only drags around their partner’s blanket, and becomes unresponsive, seek professional help promptly! A specialized veterinarian in behavioral medicine or well-trained dog trainers can work with you to provide support for your beloved pet during this difficult time. This can also help prevent your dog from slipping into a full-fledged depressive phase.
Important note: Grieving behavior can also include heightened territorial behavior. If you’re considering getting a new pet, give it enough time. Otherwise, there’s an increased likelihood that your dog may reject or even fight the new addition. On the other hand, some dogs’ mourning has been abruptly terminated by a new companion, bringing their joy back quickly.
In conclusion, even though it’s not scientifically clear how dogs grieve, it’s often observable. Support your furry friend with attention and care during this time.
