Helping Your Dog Grieve the Loss of a Bonded Companion
When two dogs share their lives together, especially litter mates who have never known life apart, their bond runs deep. They eat together, nap together, play together, and often become each other’s constant source of comfort. When one of them dies, the surviving dog doesn’t just “move on.” The absence can feel enormous, and many dogs show signs of mourning that may surprise even longtime pet parents.
Just like us, dogs experience loss in their own way. While they don’t understand death in human terms, they do notice the sudden change, the missing routine, and the absence of their companion’s scent, sound, and presence. Your dog may search, wait by doors, or appear restless in places where their friend used to be. This is a natural response, and with time and gentle support, most dogs gradually adjust.
Here are some ways you can help your grieving dog during this tender time:
🐾 Notice the Signs of Grief
Common grief responses in dogs include:
Restlessness or pacing
Vocalizing (whining, howling, barking more than usual)
Sleeping more—or sometimes less
Loss of appetite or eating only when encouraged
Withdrawal and spending more time alone
Clinginess or shadowing you everywhere
Searching for their companion around the house
These behaviors are usually temporary but pay attention if they persist beyond a couple of weeks.
🕰️ Keep Life Predictable
Dogs thrive on routine. Keeping meals, walks, and bedtime on schedule reassures your dog that while one big change has happened, the rest of their world is steady and safe.
🤲 Offer Gentle Comfort
If appropriate, you may allow your dog to sniff their companion’s blanket, bed, or even (if you feel comfortable and it’s safe) briefly see the body. Some dogs seem to settle more quickly once they’ve had this chance. Others may not need it, so follow your dog’s lead.
Beyond that, your calm presence is the greatest comfort. Sit with your dog, pet them in ways they enjoy, and share quiet time together.
🎾 Add Simple Enrichment
Grief can leave a dog feeling lost and without purpose. Gentle activities can help fill the gap:
Snuffle mats or food puzzles for mental stimulation
Scent walks (sniffaris) where they set the pace and explore smells
Short, positive training games for confidence and bonding
Soft play if they’re interested (fetch, tug, or gentle toy play)
Keep it low-key and avoid overwhelming them with too much at once.
🛏️ Provide Safe Spaces
Make sure your dog has a comfortable, familiar place to rest. Some dogs find comfort in moving their bed closer to their human’s room or sleeping nearby for a while. Others prefer a quiet retreat. Offer choices and let your dog decide.
🕯️ Consider Calming Aids
Every dog is different, but some calming tools that may help include:
Adaptil® diffusers or collars (dog-appeasing pheromone)
Thundershirts® or snug-fitting wraps for gentle pressure comfort
Soothing music or white noise, especially at night
Veterinarian-approved supplements such as L-theanine (Anxitane®), casein-based chews (Zylkene®), or melatonin in certain cases
Always consult your veterinarian before starting supplements, especially for senior dogs.
🐕 Take Your Time with New Companions
It’s natural to think about adopting another dog but give your senior time to heal. Wait until they’re eating and sleeping normally again and showing interest in play. When the time feels right, introduce a potential new friend slowly and on neutral ground.
🚨 When to Call the Vet
Contact your veterinarian if your dog shows:
No appetite for more than 24-48 hours
Significant weight loss
Persistent pacing, howling, or withdrawal
Sudden house-soiling
Confusion or disorientation
Lethargy lasting more than a week
For senior dogs (aged 8-12+ depending on their size), grief can overlap with medical issues. A vet checkup ensures you’re not missing pain, illness, or age-related changes that look like mourning.
💙 Supporting Each Other
Dogs are deeply attuned to our emotions. If you’re grieving, your dog is likely to feel that too. Create rituals of remembrance, keep routines steady, and allow yourself space to heal alongside your pet. Together, you can move through this loss gently, patiently, and with love.
🌿 Compassionate Support for You and Your Pet
At Life and Death Services, I companion people and their pets through times of loss and transition. If your dog, or you, are struggling after the death of a beloved companion, I offer pet loss grief support groups, animal caregiver circles, and one-on-one companionship. You don’t have to walk this path alone.
