Understanding Dogs and How They Experience Grief
My Deepest condolences, its hard and it hurts, it will take some time to go trough this somatic experience of loss.
Losing a dog is a life-changing experience for everyone, including other dogs in the household. You may not be aware, but dogs do grieve the loss of a companion. If you are dealing with the death of one of your dogs, there are several things you can do to help your remaining dog(s) get through this difficult time.
What Is Grief?
Grief is the emotion that drives separation anxiety in dogs, feeling lost in the environment, depression, agoraphobia, sadness, and mourning over death. Grief is inhibited by secure attachment involving the endogenous opioids, and oxytocin and prolactin, the main social bonding modulations. Grief is driven by deficits in these neuro modulations and where achieving secure attachment may have been thwarted. (Michaels L. 2022)
What to Expect After Your Dog Loses a Friend
Just like humans, dogs are empathetic creatures and react differently to loss. Some dogs seem just fine, while others get deeply depressed. When our dog Barnaby passed at age 16, he had lived for eight years with our Chihuahua. They had a very strong bond. In our case, the passing was sudden, without prior drama. Dogs' reactions depend on their relationships. Over the years, I've observed that certain dogs may develop health or behavior issues after losing a companion.
How Do We Know Dogs Grieve?
According to Bekoff, dogs might display grief as a result of a close relationship, due to their highly social nature. However, behavioral responses towards dying/dead conspecifics have been only rarely observed in wild canids. Boyd et al. briefly presented evidence of wild wolves (Canis lupus) burying the carcasses of two-week old pups. Appleby described the death of a three-month old dingo pup and the associated responses of the pup’s mother and fellow littermates: the deceased pup was transported to different locations in the days following its death. (Appleby 2013).
The social adaptations of dogs and humans are similar enough that dogs can live perfectly happy lives surrounded by humans and vice versa. It's often said that dogs grieve because they lost a pack member, but the concept of social dominance is more nuanced. While dominance hierarchies do exist among wolves and dogs, the way dogs form relationships and experience grief is more complex than simple dominance dynamics (Bekoff, 2012).
Attachment Theory and the Human-Dog Bond
Attachment theory, initially developed to explain human relationships, can also provide insight into the human-dog bond. According to this theory, individuals form deep emotional bonds, and the loss of a loved one disrupts these attachments, leading to grief (Bowlby, 1969). In the context of dogs, they form attachments not only with humans but also with other dogs. The loss of a companion can disrupt these bonds, causing emotional and behavioral changes similar to those seen in humans experiencing grief (Barker & Barker, 1988).
Common Reactions to Loss
When dogs live with humans and other house animals, the relationships are complex. Any change in the homeostasis of these dynamics affects the entire system. Here are some common dog reactions to the death of another dog:
- Behavior Changes: Grief can alter a dog's sense of safety and even personality. If the dog that passed away was a leader, the surviving dog may feel lost without guidance. You may notice your dog feeling stressed, disoriented, barking more at passersby, acting more hesitant and insecure, or even showing aggression. Conversely, if the deceased dog was the codependent part of the relationship, the surviving dog might become more social or show no significant change at all.
- Physical Symptoms: The surviving dog may exhibit restlessness, anxiety, diarrhea, weight loss, lethargy, loss of appetite, and sometimes even illness.
- No Signs: Some dogs may not show any signs of grief, potentially hiding their pain as a means of self-protection, similar to how they sometimes hide physical pain.
I’m Here to help
Grief is a deeply individual experience for each dog, influenced by factors such as breed traits, their attachment to the deceased dog, and their unique relationship dynamics. Just like humans, dogs process grief in their own way. Some may become withdrawn or anxious, while others may show signs of restlessness or even physical symptoms like loss of appetite or energy. The strength of the bond with the lost companion plays a crucial role in how a dog responds, as well as their inherent temperament and breed characteristics. Understanding these personal factors is key to providing the best support during this difficult time.
To assist you during this challenging period, I offer personalized services designed to support both you and your grieving dog. Through consultations, I help you understand your dog’s emotional needs, suggest holistic methods such as Reiki or herbal remedies, and provide guidance on maintaining routines that offer comfort and stability. Together, we can create a tailored plan to help your dog navigate their grief in a healthy, supportive way. Feel free to reach out for more information on how I can help during this time.
Supporting Your Grieving Dog
Stick to Your Routine
One of the best ways to help your dog adjust to the loss is to maintain their normal routine. Continue feeding and walking them at the same times. Keeping a consistent schedule can significantly reduce stress for both your dog and yourself.
Provide More Exercise and Stimulation
The deceased dog likely played a significant role in your other dog's daily life. You can help your dog cope with boredom and anxiety by providing more exercise and mental stimulation:
- Take your dog for an extra walk each day.
- Provide plenty of interesting toys.
- Start an obedience program or work on honing your dog's current skills.
- Play extra games like fetch or tug-of-war.
- Spend extra time cuddling and bonding.
Should You Get Another Dog?
Before getting another dog, consider the following:
- Are You Ready? Ensure you are ready for the commitment a new dog entails.
- Will Your Dog Accept Another Dog? Just because your dogs were inseparable doesn't mean the surviving dog will have the same relationship with a new dog. Visit a dog park or plan doggie play dates to see how your dog reacts.
- Let Your Dog Help Select the New Dog: If you decide to get another dog, let your dog help choose their new companion. Many shelters and breeders allow you to bring your dog to meet their dogs, helping you find the best match.
Scientific Perspectives on Canine Grief
Recent studies have advanced our understanding of grief in dogs, highlighting behavioral changes and the emotional bonds that underpin these responses. Research shows that dogs can experience grief similar to humans, with significant behavioral and emotional changes following the loss of a companion (King et al., 2022).
“According to dog owners’ answers, the surviving dog after the death of the companion dog changed both in terms of activities (“playing”, “sleeping”, and “eating”) and emotions (fearfulness), which occurred as a function of the quality of the relationship between the two animals. By contrast, the time the two dogs had spent together had no effect on the behaviours of surviving dog.” (King et al., 2022)
Behavioral and Emotional Responses to Loss
A study published in *Scientific Reports* in February 2022 analyzed grief-related responses in dogs and their owners. The study found that both friendly or parental relationships between dogs and shared activities, as well as the owner's grief, were principal predictors of negative behavioral changes in the surviving dog. These changes included alterations in activities (playing, sleeping, eating) and emotions (fearfulness) (Pirrone et al., 2022).
The Role of Human Emotions and Behaviors
The grieving process in dogs is influenced by their relationship with the deceased and their human companions' emotional state. Dogs that formed a close attachment with another dog were more likely to suffer grief after their death, regardless of breed, age, or sex. The owner's visible grief also negatively affected the dog (American Kennel Club, 2023).
Comparisons to Human Grief
Research indicates that dogs process grief similarly to humans, with changes in behavior stemming from emotional stress. Each dog expresses their emotional stress in different ways, and the grieving timeframe varies significantly (Newsweek, 2023).
Supporting Grieving Dogs
Supporting grieving dogs involves maintaining routines, providing comfort and reassurance, and engaging in activities they enjoy. These strategies are grounded in both anecdotal evidence from pet owners and scientific studies on canine behavior and psychology.
Maintaining Routines
Maintaining routines provides stability and normalcy during a confusing time. A study highlighted the importance of keeping daily routines to help reassure dogs, as changes can exacerbate their stress and anxiety (Scientific Reports, 2022).
Providing Comfort and Reassurance
Comfort and reassurance can be provided through increased physical contact and verbal communication. Physical contact, such as petting, can increase levels of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and stress reduction, both in dogs and humans. This hormonal response can provide significant emotional relief to a grieving dog. Speaking to dogs in a calm and soothing voice can also help comfort them (National Geographic, 2022).
Engaging in Favorite Activities
Engaging grieving dogs in their favorite activities can help distract them from their grief and improve their mood. Activities such as walks, fetch, or any interactive games they enjoy can stimulate their mind and body, providing a healthy outlet for their energy and helping maintain their physical health.
Extra Affection
Providing extra affection through more frequent petting sessions, cuddles, or simply spending more time in close proximity helps dogs feel secure and loved, potentially easing feelings of loneliness or abandonment (Newsweek, 2023).
Holistic Therapies
Reiki and Meditation
Reiki and meditation can be powerful tools for healing grief. A Reiki meditation focused on gratitude can help shift the focus from sadness to positive memories, creating a healing space for both the dog and the owner. This practice involves deep breathing, visualization, and focusing on the positive experiences shared with the lost companion1.
Homeopathic Remedies
Homeopathic remedies, such as Ignatia amara, can help alleviate symptoms of grief in dogs. Ignatia is known for its calming effects and can be given in a 30C potency one dose for elderly dogs. For middle edged dogs 2x day for two days, for young dogs 3x daily about three days to help with emotional distress. Zucker, M. (2000)
Dr. Cheryl Schwartz, DVM, is well-known for her holistic approach to veterinary care, particularly through the use of acupuncture, herbal remedies, and specialized diets. Here are more detailed insights into the remedies, acupuncture points, and dietary recommendations she might suggest for treating various conditions in pets, particularly focusing on grief and related symptoms in dogs.
Herbal Remedies
Dr. Schwartz often utilizes herbal remedies to address both physical and emotional issues in pets. For instance, in her book "Four Paws Five Directions," she outlines various herbs that can be used to stabilize and calm pets. Some commonly recommended herbs might include:
Valerian Root: Known for its sedative properties, helping to calm anxious dogs.
Chamomile: Often used for its soothing effects on the stomach and nerves, which can be beneficial for dogs experiencing grief-related anxiety.
St. John’s Wort: Typically used for depression, anxiety, and nerve pain.
Dosage
The dosage of these herbs can vary depending on the size of the dog and the severity of the symptoms. It is crucial to consult with a holistic veterinarian like Dr. Schwartz to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific pet.
Acupuncture Points
Acupuncture is another key component of Dr. Schwartz's holistic treatment plans. For emotional distress such as grief, specific acupuncture points might be targeted to help alleviate symptoms. Some of these points could include:
Bai Hui: Located on the midline of the lumbar sacral space, often used for its calming effects.
Heart 7 (HT7): Known as "Shen Men" or "Spirit Gate," used to treat emotional disturbances, insomnia, and anxiety.
Diets
Dietary adjustments are also a significant aspect of holistic veterinary care. Dr. Schwartz might recommend a diet that supports overall well-being and addresses specific symptoms. For a grieving dog, a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (which have anti-inflammatory and mood-stabilizing properties) might be suggested. Foods rich in these nutrients include:
Fish: Such as salmon or sardines.
Flaxseed oil: Can be added to food to boost omega-3 intake.
Specialized Diets
For dogs with specific dietary needs or sensitivities, Dr. Schwartz might recommend a tailored diet plan that avoids potential allergens and focuses on high-quality, easily digestible foods. This could include homemade diets consisting of:
Lean meats: Such as chicken or turkey.
Vegetables: Like sweet potatoes and carrots, which are gentle on the stomach and rich in nutrients.
A balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals can support the dog's overall health and well-being. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, can help improve mood and cognitive function. Consulting with a veterinarian to ensure the diet meets the dog's specific needs is recommended . (Uccheddu et al. 2022)
FAQ
Q: How do I know if my dog is grieving?
A: Signs of grief in dogs include changes in behavior, such as loss of appetite, lethargy, or increased clinginess.
Q: How long do dogs grieve the loss of a companion?
A: The grieving process varies for each dog. It may last weeks to months depending on the dog's relationship with the companion.
References
Bekoff, M. The Emotional Lives of Animals : A Leading Scientist Explores Animal Joy, Sorrow, and Empathy-and Why They Matter. (New World Library, 2007)
Boyd, D. & Pletscher, D. Evidence of wolves, Canis lupus, burying dead wolf pups. Can. Field Nat. 107, 230–231 (1993).
Michaels, L. (2022). The Do No Harm Dog Training and Behavior Handbook: Featuring the Hierarchy of Dog Needs (1st ed., p. 64). Amazon.
American Kennel Club. (2023). Do dogs grieve other dogs? Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/do-dogs-grieve-other-dogs/
Barker, S. B., & Barker, R. T. (1988). The human-canine bond: Closer than family ties. *Anthrozoös*, 2(2), 73-79.
Bekoff, M. (2012). Social dominance is not a myth: Wolves, dogs, and other animals. *Psychology Today*. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/animal-emotions/201202/social-dominance-is-not-myth-wolves-dogs-and
Bowlby, J. (1969). *Attachment and Loss*. New York: Basic Books.
King, T., Gazzano, A., Mariti, C., Pierantoni, L., Sergi, V., Sighieri, C., & Pirrone, F. (2022). Grief in dogs: An analysis of the mourning dog questionnaire. *Scientific Reports, 12*(1), 3456. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-05669-y
National Geographic. (2022). The science of dog grieving. Retrieved from https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/the-science-of-dog-grieving
Newsweek. (2023). Dog grief comparable to humans, study finds. Retrieved from https://www.newsweek.com/dog-grief-comparable-humans-1805350
Pirrone, F., Mariti, C., Gazzano, A., et al. (2022). Understanding grief in dogs: The Mourning Dog Questionnaire. *Scientific Reports, 12*(1), 1245. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-05669-y
Partee, A. (2023, August 31). How To Treat Dog Depression Naturally. Www.Dogsnaturallymagazine.com. https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/a-cure-for-dog-depression/
Uccheddu, S., Ronconi, L., Albertini, M., Coren, S., Pereira, G. D. G., Cataldo, L. D., … & Pirrone, F. (2022). Domestic dogs (canis familiaris) grieve over the loss of a conspecific. Scientific Reports, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-05669-y
Zucker, M. (2000). The Veterinarians’ guide to natural remedies for dogs. Random House International.
Schwartz, C. (1996). Four Paws, five directions: A guide to chinese medicine for cats and dogs. Celestial Arts.
