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The day I said goodbye to my old dog, Finn, I thought I had an emotional handle on the hardest part — until I saw his best furry friend, Tiny, searching every room, sniffing his bed, and letting out a soft, broken whine.
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It made me wonder: Do dogs know when other dogs die? Do they grieve like we do?
Science says dogs may not think about death the way humans do, but growing research and countless heart-wrenching owner stories suggest they feel loss in powerful, unmistakable ways.
In this guide, I’ll explore the science, the signs, and the best ways to support a dog grieving the loss of another dog or their human.
Can Dogs Understand The Concept Of Death?
Dogs live in a sensory-rich world. Their noses detect scents we can’t even imagine, and their ability to read body language is almost uncanny. But do dogs understand death in the same way humans conceptualize it? Probably not.
Instead of thinking about mortality as an abstract concept, dogs notice changes — the absence of familiar smells, sounds, routines, and companions. That absence can cause confusion, stress, and behaviors that look very much like grief.
It’s not just about missing a friend; it’s the sudden change in the rhythm of life. The absence of familiar smells and friends. The quiet where there used to be play.
Do Dogs Know When Other Dogs Die?
Many owners swear their surviving dog knew something had happened before they even removed the body or returned from the vet. One dog might sit by the door for hours, another might cry softly, and some seem restless or confused, pacing around as if searching for answers.
While we can’t prove “knowing” in the human sense, evidence shows they are acutely aware of absence, and that awareness can affect them emotionally and physically.
Dogs live in a sensory world dominated by smell. A living companion carries a complex scent signature that shifts subtly with mood, diet, and even illness. Animal ethologist Marc Bekoff, Ph.D., explains that dogs can often sense illness before death because they detect these scent changes.
After death, that primary scent signature disappears almost immediately, which may explain why many surviving dogs engage in searching behaviors or act distressed.
Do Dogs Grieve Other Dogs?
Grief in dogs is real — though it looks different than it does in humans. A 2016 study published in the journal Animals surveyed over 250 dog and cat owners and found that 75% noticed at least one behavioral change in their surviving dog after an animal companion passed away.
The most comprehensive research so far comes from a 2022 study in Scientific Reports, which surveyed 426 multi-dog households in Italy where one dog had died and another survived. Nearly all owners (93%) reported that their dogs had shared a home for over a year, and more than two-thirds (69%) described their relationship as friendly.
Over 85% of owners observed behavioral changes in their surviving dog after a companion dog’s death. The most common changes included:
- Increased attention-seeking (67%)
- Reduced playfulness and overall activity (57%)
- Increased sleep (35%)
- Heightened fearfulness (35%)
- Loss of appetite (32%)
- More frequent vocalization (30%)
Sadly, these grief-like behaviors weren’t always short-lived:
- About 32% of dogs showed changes for two to six months.
- Nearly 25% continued for more than six months.
Bond strength mattered, too. Surviving dogs were more affected when they had:
- Slept next to the deceased dog
- Shared daily play
- Formed especially close, almost parental-style bonds
Finally, the study found that owner grief played a role. Dogs often mirrored the sadness of their human family, suggesting a kind of emotional contagion or empathetic resonance.
Other Possible Signs A Dog Is Aware Of A Companion Dog’s Death
- Refusing to enter certain rooms where they spent time together
- Searching the house or yard as if looking for the missing companion
- Whining or howling at usual playtimes
- Sniffing bedding or toys intensely, then ignoring them — almost as if confirming the absence of scent
If you’ve seen any of these signs, you know they’re not just “acting out” — they’re processing a change they don’t fully understand, but they know things are different.
My Colleague’s Personal Experience With A Pup Grieving Their Furry Sibling
I saw firsthand how the death of one dog can leave ripples that touch every corner of a home, including other pets. When my beloved Chihuahua passed away a few years ago, it felt like the loss of a family member, a piece of daily life suddenly missing.
What I didn’t expect was how deeply it would affect my other dog, Daisy. Daisy paced the house, unsettled, as if searching for a rhythm that no longer existed. She clung to me in a way I had never seen before, shadowing me from room to room, even nudging her way into the bathroom.
Her grief spilled into the smallest details, ignoring her food, refusing the comfort of her own bed. That bed had always been hers, but it had also been shared with our sweet Chi. For weeks, she would not sleep there.
When I spoke to my vet, they explained that this was Daisy’s way of grieving. In time, life slowly found a new shape, and the house softened back into something like normal.
But Daisy never let go of that fierce need to be close. Even a year later, when we opened our home to a new rescue pup, she stayed pressed to my side.
– Danielle DeGroot, Rescue Dog Mom, Canine Journal Writer
Do Dogs Understand An Owner’s Death?
When a beloved owner passes away, the loss can shake a dog’s world as much, if not more, than the loss of a canine companion. Dogs rely on their humans for food, care, affection, and daily structure. When that presence suddenly disappears, it can leave them anxious and unsettled.
Their bond with us is rooted in biology. For example, a 2011 study on human–dog interaction found that simply petting or spending time with an owner increases a dog’s oxytocin levels — the same “bonding hormone” that connects parents and children.
Other studies have shown that dogs become anxious when their owner is away, even for short stretches, and that the stress grows stronger the longer the separation lasts.
This helps explain why some dogs, especially so-called “velcro dogs,” are so prone to separation anxiety. They don’t grasp the idea of “you’ll be back soon” — what they understand is absence, and that absence can feel overwhelming.
Stories That Mirror the Science
Science may measure hormones and heart rates, but dog owners know the signs of grief firsthand. Some dogs wait by doors or windows. Others sleep on their owner’s clothes. Many refuse food or wander the house as if searching.
And of course, there’s the famous story of Hachikō, the Akita in Japan, who waited at a train station for nearly 10 years after his owner’s death. His story isn’t just folklore; it mirrors what we still see today in service dogs who lie beside a fallen handler’s coffin or pets that linger near their owner’s grave.
In both science and story, one truth stands out: dogs may not understand death, but they know absence. And when that absence is the person or canine companion they’ve loved most, the adjustment can be as emotional for them as it is for us.
What’s The Difference Between Grief And Anxiety In Dogs?
When a dog loses a beloved companion, some of the behaviors you notice may look a lot like anxiety — pacing, whining, or clinging to you more than usual. But there are subtle differences between grief and separation anxiety, and knowing them can help you support your dog better.
Grief Behaviors often include:
- Searching for the deceased dog or person
- Sleeping more than usual
- Loss of appetite
- Vocalizing at unusual times
- Withdrawal from play or favorite activities
Anxiety Behaviors are more likely to show up when your dog is left alone:
- Destructive chewing or scratching doors
- House soiling even when housetrained
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Constant pacing until you return
- Immediate relief once you’re home
The key difference is triggers. Grief tends to appear around routines, objects, or times connected to the lost companion, while anxiety is triggered by your absence.
Of course, some dogs experience both at once — grief that turns into heightened separation anxiety. If your dog’s distress feels extreme or doesn’t improve after a few weeks, talking with your vet or a behaviorist can make a world of difference.
How To Help A Grieving Dog Heal
When a dog is grieving the loss of another dog or human companion, they need stability, patience, and gentle encouragement.
While it can take some dogs a long time to heal, here’s what you can do to help your furry friend:
- Stick to routines — Meals, walks, and bedtime should be predictable.
- Give extra affection — Petting, grooming, and quiet companionship can offer comfort.
- Keep things familiar — Surround them with familiar people, scents, and objects.
- Maintain exercise — Walking and light play encourage endorphin release.
- Offer mental enrichment — Puzzle toys, brain training games, and new scents help keep their mind active.
- Let them rest — Some dogs need quiet time as much as play.
- Monitor eating and drinking habits closely — early vet intervention can prevent health decline.
When To Seek Professional Help
Most grieving dogs start to improve within a few months. But if grief turns into prolonged depression, it’s time to talk to your vet or a certified canine behaviorist. Sudden weight loss, refusal to eat, or extreme withdrawal can indicate both emotional and physical health issues. A veterinary behaviorist can also create a personalized plan to help your dog adjust.
When Grief Affects Health
Most grieving dogs gradually adjust over time. But in some cases, the emotional stress takes a toll on their body as well as their heart.
Red flags to watch for include:
- Refusing food for more than 24–48 hours
- Noticeable weight loss
- Sudden changes in bathroom habits
- Lethargy that doesn’t improve
- Worsening of existing conditions, like arthritis or heart disease
Stress hormones such as cortisol can weaken the immune system if they remain elevated for too long. This makes senior dogs or those with chronic illnesses especially vulnerable.
If you notice these changes, don’t wait — schedule a veterinary checkup. A grieving dog may also be a sick dog, and catching health issues early is the best way to protect them while they heal emotionally.
Can A New Dog Help A Grieving Dog?
When a beloved dog passes, it’s natural to wonder if bringing another pet into the home will ease the surviving dog’s sadness. The answer isn’t simple — and timing matters.
For some dogs, a new companion can provide distraction, play, and comfort. For others, especially those still deep in mourning, a new dog may feel overwhelming or even threatening.
Signs your dog may be ready for a new companion:
- Appetite and sleep have returned to normal
- Curiosity about other dogs has reappeared
- Playfulness and energy are starting to return
Signs your dog may need more time:
- Refusal to eat or engage with toys
- Persistent searching for the deceased dog
- Anxiety, withdrawal, or excessive vocalizing
The key is to let your dog set the pace. Rushing the process can add stress rather than comfort. If you do bring home a new dog, make introductions slowly and offer plenty of reassurance so your grieving pup doesn’t feel replaced.
Other Animals Who Demonstrate Grief Behaviors
Dogs aren’t the only animals who show signs of mourning. In fact, an entire field of science, called comparative thanatology (the study of how animals respond to death), has documented grief-like behaviors across many social species.
Barbara J. King, Ph.D., emerita professor of anthropology at the College of William & Mary, author of How Animals Grieve, and author of the award-winning article “Humans Are Not the Only Creatures Who Mourn” in Scientific American, asserts that the following patterns make it clear that many animals respond to death.
- Wolves and Coyotes: Wild canids have been observed lingering near deceased packmates, vocalizing softly, or showing subdued behavior. These parallels to domestic dogs suggest that mourning may be rooted in evolutionary pack bonds.
- Elephants: One of the most well-documented examples, elephants often touch and guard the bodies of fallen herd members, sometimes revisiting the bones months or years later.
- Primates: Chimpanzees and gorillas have been seen carrying deceased infants for days, a behavior researchers believe reflects both attachment and difficulty processing the loss.
- Birds: Corvids like crows and magpies gather quietly around dead flockmates in what some scientists call “funeral gatherings.” These events may help the group process danger or simply express loss.
Together, these examples reinforce the idea that grief is not uniquely human — it’s a response to deep social bonds. And just like elephants or primates, our dogs feel the absence of those they love.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve covered the most common questions about canine grief below. If you don’t see your question here, drop it in our comments. We love hearing from readers and will do our best to get you answers.
Should You Let Your Dog See The Deceased Pet?
Some experts believe that allowing a dog to sniff and see the body may help them process the change. Without this, they may continue searching, unsure where their companion went. However, this isn’t right for every dog — some may become stressed or agitated. If you’re unsure, ask your vet for guidance.
Do Dogs Remember Deceased Dogs Years Later?
Some do, especially if they were deeply bonded. Familiar scents or places can trigger memories.
How Long Do Dogs Grieve?
There’s no set timeline. Some dogs bounce back within weeks; others may take months or more to fully adjust. Age, personality, and the depth of the bond all play a role. Just like humans, dogs may have “good days” and “bad days” during the grieving process.
Can A Dog Die Of Grief?
While grief itself doesn’t directly cause death, extreme stress can worsen health issues in senior or fragile dogs.
Is My Dog’s Change In Behavior Normal After Losing A Friend?
Yes, as long as it gradually improves over time. If it worsens, consult a vet.
When Should I Get Another Dog?
It’s tempting to fill the void quickly, but timing matters. Your surviving dog needs time to adjust to the loss — and you do, too. Introducing a new pet too soon can cause stress or resentment.
Signs your dog might be ready for a new companion:
- Their appetite and sleep return to normal
- They’re showing signs of playfulness
- They seem curious about other dogs again
Do Dogs Grieve When An Owner Dies?
Yes, physiological stress and behavioral changes are common. Keeping routines consistent, maintaining familiar scents, and offering extra companionship can help.
Should A Dog See Their Deceased Owner?
Some experts believe it may help provide closure, allowing the dog to process the absence through scent and sight. However, others caution that the experience can be confusing or stressful for certain dogs. If this situation arises, consult a veterinarian or behaviorist to decide what’s best for your dog.
How To Deal With Your Own Grief Over A Pet Loss
Facing the end of a dog’s life is one of the most difficult moments any pet parent will experience. Saying goodbye to a beloved companion means not only coping with your own grief but also helping surviving pets adjust to the absence.
Allow space for both yourself and your surviving pets to mourn, and lean on support when you need it. If you’d like more guidance, you can read our companion article on coping with the death of your dog for ideas on navigating the healing process.
If you’ve ever walked alongside your dog as they grieved the loss of a companion, our hearts go out to you. We’d love for you to share your story in the comments — how did you help your pup heal, and what brought comfort during that difficult time?
