Just like humans, dogs are very emotional animals; their attachments are deep and strong. With such attachment, there are great feelings in their moments of loss. True sadness from the loss of a friend, which might be another dog or even a feline member of the family, or even an owner, does occur. Indeed, the line between animal grief and human mourning seems to blur in those moments. But do pets grieve just like humans? More importantly, how can we comfort them in those sad days when they lose one they love? We will try to understand in this article whether dogs grieve or not, and point out five helpful ways to support your dog while grieving.
Grief in Dogs: Understanding It
Though they may not verbalize it as humans do, dogs demonstrate evident signs of distress when they incur some loss. Canine grief is manifested in changes in behavior and emotional conditions. You may notice that the dog now withdraws from an activity he used to love and might become overly clingy. What starts with mood can lead to health for their grief.
Signs Your Dog is Grieving
The first step is recognizing the grief in your dog, and it often manifests in the form of:
- Possible signs include withdrawal from activities-they may lose interest in playing or walking.
- Changes in appetite and sleep: Some dogs stop eating, while others sleep much more than usual.
- Your dog may express either clinginess or detachment by sticking close to your side or retreating to get away from people.
- Physical signs: Lethargy, whining, pacing, and even destructive behavior can indicate that your dog is struggling with grief.
- Want to read more about dog behavior click here...
5 Ways to Help a Grieving Dog
1. Make Things Routine and Familiar
Dogs love their routine, and when they're in a state of grief, this daily routine continues to be even more important. Stick to familiar walking times, feeding schedules, and play sessions. Routine provides structure, which helps reduce anxiety and stress during times of emotional turmoil.
2. Comfort and Reassure
Grieving dogs also seek physical comfort. Your presence, soothing voice, and physical contact will all be reassuring to a saddened dog. Provide a peaceful atmosphere in which your dog should feel secure and not refrain from giving those extra hugs. The comfort of familiarity and your compassionate touch can ease their sorrow.
3. Encourage Playing and Exercising
Physical activity is a powerful emotional healing tool. Forcing a grieving dog to play will release endorphins, creating a better mood. Start with light activities, such as going for a walk or having fun playing fetch, and then raise the level of intensity based on your dog's response.
4. Gradual Introduction to New Stimuli
New experiences ease the pain for a grieving dog. A new toy, scent, even a new pet-all of these can perk him up, but very gradually so as not to be overwhelming. If your dog loses a pet, a slow introduction to another companion may, after some time, be comforting.
5. Consult a Veterinarian or Pet Behaviorist
However, if the grief of your dog persists or the ensuing change/effect in his behavior becomes unacceptable, then consultation with a veterinarian or a pet behaviorist will become imperative. A veterinary will help inspect your dog for any hidden physiological issues that could further worsen its grief, while the behaviorist may be able to suggest coping mechanisms and long-term care for your dog's emotional well-being.
Science Behind Canine Grief
According to research by the American Kennel Club, supports that dogs can feel grief. There is documentation of a great emotional change in dogs when a close companion is lost. It might not be a grieving, as such, as in humans, but the emotional response is real and can be measured. Predicated on the level to which animals are capable of feeling grief, some scientists have compared it to the grief of children.
Why Recognizing Dog Grief is Important
It is essential to acknowledge grief in your dog because it relates to overall health. Dogs that grieve for extended periods without assistance may potentially cause long-term behavioral and health concerns. As good pet owners, it is vital that you become aware of your dog's emotions and provide them with the appropriate attention to overcome their pain. How long does dog grief last? There is no specific amount of time that dogs grieve. Littermates may be different, and even breed and personality can make the difference. A dog's grief is also somewhat defined by the quality of the relationship they had with their companion. Some dogs seem to pick up and move on in a matter of a day or two, while others can grieve for several weeks or even months. Coping with the Loss of another pet If your dog is grieving the loss of a fellow pet, it is reassuring to comfort them and build on positive memories. Share the sorrow with them, but try not to add more stress by creating new, happier experiences as well.
Conclusion
Just like humans, dogs suffer under the emotional burden of a loss, and it is our duty to see them through this phase. By being in a position to recognize the signs and symptoms of grief, you will go to the appropriate lengths to ensure that your dog heals emotionally. If you want to read all the detailed advice on how to look after your grieving dog, then read our full article and act now.