Understanding how dogs experience grief after the loss of a companion animal or human, and how to support them through bereavement.
Dog grief represents an underacknowledged welfare challenge for companion animals. The capacity for grief implies the capacity for meaningful social bonds, which are disrupted by companion loss. Surviving dogs in multi-dog households often show clear distress responses that owners may attribute to other causes or minimize. Supporting a grieving dog requires patience with behavioral changes including reduced appetite and activity, maintenance of familiar routines that provide security, increased positive interaction and gentle exercise, and avoiding premature introduction of a new companion before the dog has adjusted. Some dogs benefit from seeing the body of a deceased companion, which may reduce searching behavior. Severe or prolonged grief responses warrant veterinary consultation to rule out medical causes and discuss supportive interventions.