Dogs have a complex relationship with death that is still not fully understood by humans. However, research suggests dogs may have some concept of death and can perceive when a living being dies. Here’s a look at what we know so far about how dogs view and react to death.
Do dogs understand the concept of death?
Studies show dogs may have a basic understanding of death as a permanent state. Dogs can likely sense when a living being (animal or human) dies through their acute sense of smell and their ability to detect subtle changes in the body and lack of movement. Research has not proven conclusively that dogs understand the permanence and finality of death, but they do appear to recognize that a dead being is somehow different than a living one.
How do dogs react to death?
Dogs often show distinct behavioral changes when they detect a dead being. These may include:
- Sniffing, licking, or nudging the body
- Barking, whining, or howling
- Pacing or circling the body
- Watching over or guarding the body
- Loss of appetite
- Increase in attention-seeking behaviors
- Withdrawing from daily activities
The level of response depends on the dog’s temperament and bond with the deceased. Dogs usually show more intense grief responses when a close companion like a family member or another pet dies. Some dogs may not outwardly react at all.
Do dogs understand euthanasia?
There is no evidence that dogs understand the concept of euthanasia or that it is different than natural death. What matters most to dogs is how the body is handled after death occurs. They rely heavily on scent and may become distressed if they cannot properly sniff the deceased.
Do dogs grieve death?
Dogs appear to grieve the loss of a close human or animal companion. Behavioral signs like lethargy, loss of appetite, and seeking more attention from others can indicate a dog is mourning. Most research suggests dogs grieve deeply for around two weeks. Grieving patterns may vary depending on the individual dog.
Do dogs sense impending death?
Anecdotal reports from pet owners indicate that dogs sometimes foreshadow the death of a sick or elderly guardian, suggesting they can sense impending death. Specific signs like clinginess, pacing, whimpering, or hiding may occur hours or days before the death. Dogs likely rely on changes in scent, appearance, activity level, and behavior to detect imminent death.
Why do dogs howl at death?
It is not fully known why dogs howl at or near a deceased being. Possible explanations include:
- Expression of grief
- Attempt to wake the dead
- Discomfort with altered scent
- Confusion or anxiety
- Alerting others about the death
Howling may reflect the dog’s bond with the deceased and sense of loss.
Do dogs need to see the body after death?
Seeing, sniffing, or touching the deceased companion’s body after death appears to help some dogs accept the loss. Being present at the time of death or shortly after may also provide closure. Dogs who cannot properly perceive the body sometimes continue searching obsessively for the companion.
How can you help a grieving dog?
These tips can help comfort a dog grieving a loss:
- Allow sniffing, interaction with the body if possible
- Maintain normal routines/schedule
- Provide extra attention, affection
- Allow grieving without punishment
- Try calming supplements if needed
- Consider professional behavior help if needed
Do dogs ever commit suicide?
There is no scientific evidence that dogs intentionally commit suicide. While some dogs refuse food after a guardian dies, they do not appear to fully understand the concept of ending one’s own life on purpose. Any suspected “suicide” cases have logical alternate explanations like illness, injury, or depression.
Conclusion
Research has not yet fully unlocked the mysteries of how dogs perceive death. But it’s clear dogs recognize deceased beings undergo distinct physical changes. Although they may not understand death’s permanence, dogs do grieve the loss of companions and need care and patience from their humans during the mourning process. Understanding dogs’ relationships with death can help us provide sensitive and compassionate care for our grieving four-legged friends.
