10 Signs of Grieving in Dogs & How to Help

Dogs are sensitive, loyal animals who build strong attachments to other dogs, cats, and humans in their household. When a companion is no longer there, bereavement in dogs can cause emotional pain and stress, leading to behaviours that may look unusual and worrying. 

Recognising these signs is the first step to helping them heal. This guide explores the common symptoms of grief in dogs and gives you practical advice on how to support your dog with love and understanding.

Jump to:

While dogs may not understand death in the same way humans do, there’s no doubt that they feel the absence of a loved one. Dogs rely heavily on routine, familiarity, and the presence of their companions. When one of those companions is gone, the surviving dog can experience a mixture of sadness, confusion, and anxiety.

Every dog is different, but these are the most common dog grieving symptoms you may observe:

One of the clearest signs of grief in dogs is refusing food or showing little interest in eating. Mealtimes often highlight absence; if your dogs used to eat side by side, the empty bowl can be a painful reminder. Offer smaller, more tempting meals such as warm, lightly cooked chicken or fish. Sometimes hand-feeding provides comfort and encouragement.

Just as people may feel drained after a loss, dogs can become unusually tired or withdrawn. A once-energetic dog might prefer lying in their bed, sleeping more than usual, or showing less enthusiasm for walks and play. Instead of demanding high-energy play, try calm walks in nature or simply sitting together outside. Fresh air and mild exercise can lift the mood without overwhelming your dog.

A grieving dog may wander the house, sniff at favourite spots, or wait by the door, seemingly expecting their companion to return. This behaviour shows their confusion and longing. Reassure them by spending time in these areas together. Offering comfort where they’re searching helps them feel less alone and gradually teaches them that things have changed.

It’s common for bereaved dogs to become more dependent on their humans. They may follow you from room to room, whine when you leave, or panic at being alone. This is their way of seeking security after losing a trusted companion. Gradually build independence with short absences. Leave for just a few minutes and reward calm behaviour when you return. This helps rebuild confidence.

Grieving dogs often experience disrupted sleep. Some may sleep excessively as a way of shutting out the world, while others struggle to settle or wake during the night. Keep bedtime routines consistent: a last walk, a comfortable bed, and perhaps calming music can make sleep easier.

Whining and howling are common symptoms of a grieving dog. These sounds are a form of communication, expressing loneliness, anxiety and a call for comfort. Offer quiet reassurance, gentle touch, or distraction with a toy. Overly fussing may reinforce the behaviour, but ignoring isn’t helpful either. 

A grieving dog may not want to chase toys or engage in activities they once loved, particularly if those activities were shared with their companion. Introduce new forms of enrichment: puzzle feeders, scent games, or short training sessions. Fresh experiences can stimulate their mind and encourage joy again.

Stress and grief can cause setbacks in house training and obedience. You might notice accidents indoors or behaviour you thought your dog had outgrown. Reinforce training gently without punishment. Consistency, rewards, and encouragement will help them regain their habits.

Panting, pacing, drooling, and excessive shedding may all point to stress and anxiety. Some dogs may develop digestive issues like diarrhoea. Create a calm environment; limit loud noises, stick to routine, and offer gentle physical activity. If physical symptoms persist, a vet check is essential.

The combination of sadness, low appetite, and lack of interest can resemble depression. Offer affection, provide enrichment, and if symptoms linger beyond a few weeks, seek advice from your vet or a canine behaviourist.

Some dogs adjust within weeks, while others show bereavement for months. Factors include the depth of their bond, their personality, and the support they receive. Just as humans move through grief at different paces, dogs also heal in their own time.

When it comes to supporting a grieving dog, these proven strategies can make a difference:

It’s tempting to think a new dog will “replace” the lost companion, but introducing another pet too soon can overwhelm a grieving dog. Give your dog time to adjust to life without their companion first. Once they seem more settled, you can consider whether they would enjoy a new friend. Some dogs adapt well to another pet, while others prefer to remain the only dog.

Older dogs may have less resilience and take longer to recover from the loss of a companion. They may also struggle with changes to routine and become more anxious. Younger dogs, while still affected, may adjust more quickly, especially if they have plenty of stimulation and support.

Providing a familiar blanket, keeping them close to you, or using soft background noise such as calming music can help. A gentle bedtime routine and reassurance before sleep can reduce restlessness and anxiety.

Some owners find gentle, natural remedies like pheromone diffusers, calming supplements, and herbal products helpful in easing anxiety. Always consult your vet before trying these, to ensure they’re safe and appropriate for your dog.

Many dogs show grief when a human family member dies. The signs are similar to when they lose another dog: sadness, searching, vocalisation, and withdrawal. Dogs are highly attuned to our presence, so the loss of a human companion can deeply affect them.

Dogs are incredibly sensitive to human emotions and can pick up on sadness, stress, and changes in behaviour. If you’re grieving too, your dog may reflect your emotions. Offering each other comfort can be healing for both of you.

If your dog’s symptoms of grief last more than a few weeks without improvement, or if they stop eating, lose significant weight, or seem severely depressed, it’s time to seek help. Your vet can check for health problems and, if needed, refer you to a canine behaviourist for tailored support.

If you’d like to deepen your understanding of canine behaviour and emotions, the Canine Communication Diploma Course at Centre of Excellence is an excellent choice. For just £29, you’ll gain knowledge and practical skills to strengthen your bond with your dog and better support them through every stage of life.