Animals including dogs, horses, and elephants show behavioural signs of grief following the loss of a companion, and understanding animal bereavement improves how we manage companion animal welfare after loss.
Animal grief responses are now well-documented across a range of species, indicating that loss of a companion causes genuine welfare harm beyond simple disruption to routine. Dogs show reduced appetite, increased vocalisation, and changes in sleep patterns after losing a companion - responses that parallel human grief. These behaviours indicate negative affective states that welfare science now recognises as welfare-relevant. Managing companion animal bereavement involves maintaining routine and social contact, allowing appropriate time before introducing new companions, and veterinary support where grief responses are severe or prolonged. Understanding animal grief helps owners respond appropriately rather than dismissing behavioural changes after companion loss.