Understanding and Managing Grief in Dogs

Losing a cherished family member or beloved pet is an incredibly difficult experience—and our dogs feel that loss too. Just as humans grieve, dogs may exhibit observable changes in behavior when they lose a furry friend or someone close within the household.

Many pet owners recognize these behavioural shifts as signs of grief, and it’s highly plausible that dogs experience a profound sense of longing and emotional adjustment in response to such losses.

Signs of Grief in Dogs

Your dog may show different emotional responses to grief, including:

🩷 Loss of Appetite🐾 Searching for the Departed Pet or Person

💔 Sudden Personality Changes (e.g., increased clinginess)

🐶 Onset of Separation Anxiety

🐕‍🦺 Vocalization—Howling or Crying

🛏️ Seeking Solitude—Hiding from Family Members

🧼 Altered Grooming Habits (excessive or neglect)

🚽 Accidents Indoors (uncharacteristic toileting behavior)

😞 General Disposition Change (not appearing like their usual selves)

Since grief manifests differently in every dog, consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical concerns before assuming your pet is grieving.

How to Comfort a Grieving Dog

If your vet confirms that your dog is healthy but grieving, here are compassionate ways to support them through this difficult time:

🏡 Maintain a Calm & Positive Environment

Your emotional state impacts your dog, so strive to remain reassuring and calm to help them feel secure.

🎾 Spend Quality Time Together

Engage in play or activities your dog enjoys to provide positive distractions from grief.

💕 Be Present

Your dog may seek more companionship during this period—being physically and emotionally available can provide great comfort.

⏰ Stick to Routine

Keeping a consistent schedule helps create a sense of stability during emotional upheaval.

🌿 Consider Pheromone Diffusers

Pheromone plug-ins can offer a soothing atmosphere, helping to ease stress and anxiety.

🛏️ Create a Safe Retreat Space

A secure space or den where your dog can retreat when feeling overwhelmed can provide reassurance.

🫂 Offer Comfort When Needed

Be there for cuddles, reassurance, or gentle interaction, but avoid reinforcing anxious behaviours.

🚪 Respect Their Need for Space

If your dog chooses to withdraw, allow them the solitude they need to process emotions.

🚫 Avoid Major Home Changes

Refrain from renovations or disruptions that might increase stress levels.

🚽 Handle Toileting Accidents with Sensitivity

⚠ If grief leads to accidents, be patient and supportive—clean thoroughly and increase outdoor opportunities while praising correct toileting.

Additional Supportive Methods

Beyond emotional support, consider natural remedies and nutritional boosts to help your grieving dog:

✔ Dorwest Herbs Damiana & Kola Tablets

💊 Helpful for pets suffering bereavement—can be used daily for as long as needed. Split the daily dosage morning and evening for consistent effects.

✔ Four Leaf Rover Lion’s Mane

🍄 Supports cognitive function, brain health, and emotional well-being, particularly in anxious or depressed dogs.

✔ Homemade Vitamin Water

🥤 Infuse water overnight with dog-safe fruits and herbs (e.g., blueberries, raspberries, cucumber, nettle, dandelion) for an extra nutritional boost.

⚠ Use caution in dogs with known health conditions before introducing new ingredients.

✔ Green Tripe in Food

🥩 Tripe is highly nutritious and may help encourage appetite due to its strong aroma.

✔ Holistic & Homeopathic Approaches

🌿 Seek a holistic veterinarian for alternative therapies like Bach Flower Remedies.

✔ Self-Selection Sessions

🐕 Zoopharmacognosy and applied herbal choices allow dogs to self-select remedies tailored to their physical and emotional needs. Certified professionals can guide this process using herbs, powders, and oils.

Final Thoughts

Grief is a complex process, and supporting a mourning pet requires empathy, patience, and understanding. Whether it’s creating a secure environment, maintaining routine, or exploring holistic approaches, your love and care play a vital role in helping your dog navigate their emotions.

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Losing a cherished family member or a beloved pet is an immensely challenging experience, and it's vital to remember that our pets, too, may be affected by such losses. Observable changes in their behaviour become evident when they lose a dear furry friend or someone close within the household.

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