Helping Your Dog Deal with Grief ❤️🩹
Here at Urban Paws, we recently experienced the heartbreak and grief of losing our beloved Yorkshire Terrier, Buttons. Buttons was more than just the original Urban Paws dog; he was a cherished family member and a source of endless joy. His passing has left an undeniable void, not just for us but for his little sister, Biscuit, a sweet Dachshund who has been struggling with her grief. Since Buttons’ passing, Biscuit has been off her food, has lost much of her energy, and is currently on medication to help improve her mood. This inspired me to write this blog post, as we know this is something many pet owners will face while dealing with their own grief of losing a fur-baby.
As we all know, pets are part of the family, and for many of us, they are like children. Watching them go through the pain of loss can be heart-wrenching, but there are ways to support them during this difficult time.
Signs Your Dog May Be Grieving
Dogs, much like humans, can exhibit physical and emotional signs of grief. While every dog is different, here are some common behaviours that may indicate your dog is grieving:
- Lethargy: Your once energetic pup may become unusually tired or uninterested in activities they used to enjoy.
- Loss of Appetite: Grieving dogs often lose interest in food or treats they previously loved.
- Avoiding Contact: Your dog may withdraw from social interactions, avoiding other animals or even you.
- Changes in Sleep Patterns: They might sleep more than usual or have difficulty settling.
- Whining or Pacing: Some dogs vocalise their distress or exhibit restless behaviours.
Recognising these signs is the first step in helping your dog through their grief.
How to Help Your Grieving Pet
- Spend Extra Quality Time: Dedicate more time to being with your dog. Engage in activities they enjoy, like gentle walks or playtime. Physical touch, such as petting, cuddling, or brushing, can also provide comfort and reassurance.
- Explore New Places: Create new memories together by taking your dog to new parks, trails, or pet-friendly cafes. Fresh environments can help redirect their focus and stimulate their senses, offering a positive distraction.
- Maintain a Routine: Dogs thrive on routine, and sticking to a consistent schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime can provide them with a sense of stability during an emotionally turbulent time.
- Consider Veterinary Support: If your dog’s grief seems prolonged or severe, consult your vet. They can rule out any underlying health issues and may recommend medication, supplements, or behavioural therapy to aid their recovery.
- Introduce Social Interaction Gradually: If your dog is comfortable, gently reintroduce them to other animals or arrange playdates with trusted furry friends. This can help them regain their confidence and social skills.
- Be Patient: Healing takes time, both for you and your pet. Allow your dog to grieve at their own pace and celebrate small victories, like showing interest in food or engaging in play again.
The Power of Time and Love
Grief is one of the most painful emotions, but it’s also a natural part of life. With time, love, and care, the pain eases, and cherished memories replace the sadness. Biscuit is improving each day, slowly allowing other dogs to gain her trust and affection and showing renewed interest in her favourite foods. These small but significant steps remind us that healing is a journey.
If you’re going through a similar experience, know that you’re not alone. Take comfort in knowing that your love and support mean everything to your grieving pet.
About the Author
My name is Tayler Lewis-Bungay, and I am the Social Media and Marketing Executive at Urban Paws Agency. I have a cheeky Dachshund named Mae, who is my pride and joy and recently turned one on January 4th, 2025. Writing these blogs is a dream come true as it allows me to combine my passions: my love for animals and my skills as a writer. Thank you for taking the time to read, and I hope this post helps you and your pets navigate difficult times together.
