How to cope with grief after losing a dog?

Losing a dog is heart‑breaking. For many people, dogs are family members who share the sofa, accompany us on walks and listen without judgment. When they die, the pain can be profound and confusing. Some people worry that grieving a pet isn’t “normal,” yet research shows that the emotions we feel after losing a canine companion are real and valid. This article explains why mourning a dog is so intense and offers practical tips for coping with grief. It draws on academic studies of pet bereavement to provide evidence‑based guidance.

Understanding why grief for a dog is so intense

Attachment predicts grief intensity. The strength of your bond with your dog is the main factor that determines how deeply you grieve. In a study comparing college students who had lost a pet with those who had lost a human loved one, grief levels were only slightly higher after human deaths, and closeness to the deceased was overwhelmingly the strongest predictor of grief severity. Owners often describe crying, loneliness, guilt, numbness and a sense that something important is missing-emotions that mirror the experience of losing a person.

Grief is real and has no fixed timetable. The idea that you should “move on” quickly after losing a dog is a myth. Researchers note that grief following pet loss doesn’t follow a strict schedule; some owners feel better after six months, while others grieve for a year or more. This variability reflects personal differences in attachment, social support and life stress. Studies of pet owners highlight that attachment to the animal, perceived understanding from others and other stressful events all combine to predict the grief response. People who live alone or do not have children may experience greater social isolation when a dog dies.

Pet grief is often disenfranchised. Sociologists observe that grief for animals is frequently viewed as less legitimate. Interview studies reveal that owners sometimes downplay their grief, joke about it or avoid formal rituals because they fear appearing overly sentimental. Some compare losing a dog to losing a human relative but use phrases like “as if” to emphasize that society still sees a difference. This lack of recognition can leave grieving dog owners feeling misunderstood and alone.

Strategies for coping with the loss of a dog

1. Acknowledge your grief - give yourself permission to feel sad. The deep bond you shared with your dog means your sadness is valid. Avoid comparing your grief to others’ experiences or telling yourself you should “get over it.”  Recognizing your feelings is an important first step toward healing.
   
   
2. Seek social support - support from friends and family matters. Research shows that perceived understanding from others helps reduce grief intensity. Share memories of your dog with people who appreciate the role pets play in life. If you encounter someone who dismisses your grief, find supportive communities such as pet loss forums or groups where others understand.
   
   
3. Create continuing bonds - continuing bonds refer to ways people maintain a connection with a loved one after death. Pet owners often talk to their deceased animals, keep their collar or favourite toy and engage in rituals to honour them. These practices can be comforting and help integrate the loss into your life. Consider writing a letter to your dog, making a photo album or keeping a journal about your memories.
   
   
4. Honour your dog with a memorial - rituals provide structure and meaning during mourning. Some owners bury their dogs in a special place and invite friends or other pets to say goodbye. Others prefer private ceremonies or choose cremation. If you opt for cremation, you can keep your dog’s ashes in a way that feels respectful and suits your home. Many people choose simple, discreet urns or keepsake boxes made from natural or biodegradable materials. Pairing a memorial piece with a personal ritual—such as lighting a candle on special days or placing it in a favorite spot—can help you feel connected to your dog while blending seamlessly into your home. You might also plant a tree or flowers, donate to an animal shelter in your dog’s name or create art from their collar. Any gesture that reflects your relationship can be meaningful.
   
   
5. Take care of yourself - Grief is exhausting. Make sure you’re eating nutritious food, getting enough rest and exercising gently. Going for a walk on your dog’s favourite route can be a way to honour their memory while caring for your body. If you find your grief interfering with daily activities or leading to persistent depression, consider speaking with a counsellor. Studies have found that some bereaved pet owners experience high levels of depressive symptoms. A mental‑health professional who understands pet loss can help you work through complicated feelings and, if needed, address guilt about euthanasia or other decisions.

When to seek professional support

While most people process grief over time, certain signs suggest you might benefit from additional help. If you find yourself unable to function at work or home, feel overwhelming guilt or anger, or think you’ll never feel joy again, talking to a grief counsellor could be helpful. Professional support can also benefit you if your dog’s death coincided with other major life events, as research suggests that multiple stresses amplify the impact of pet loss. 

Conclusion

Losing a dog can be one of the most painful experiences you face because the bond you share is so unique. Studies show that grief for a pet can be as intense as grief for a person and that there is no “right” timeline for healing. By acknowledging your feelings, seeking support, maintaining a continuing bond and honouring your dog in ways that reflect your relationship-such as through personalised rituals or a tasteful urn-you can navigate this difficult time with compassion for yourself. Remember that your grief is a testament to the love you shared, and with time and care, the pain can transform into a gentle remembrance.