Dogs form genuine attachment bonds with companion animals, and the death of a companion can cause grief-like responses requiring appropriate management and support.
Companion grief in dogs is a genuine welfare concern - behavioural changes, reduced activity, and physiological stress indicators show that companion loss has real welfare impact beyond simple routine disruption. Management should prioritise maintaining the surviving dog's routine, increasing positive human interaction, monitoring food intake and weight, and allowing adequate time before introducing new companions. The welfare response depends on individual grief expression assessment rather than assuming a uniform experience.