Did my dog know she was dying? (2023)

Does my dog know they are dying?

Since dogs who are approaching death are often aware and ready, they may begin to act differently in their last moments. Before you read too much into these signs, though, know that many of them can appear due to other, much more minor causes.

The last few days before your dog passes you may notice: extreme weight loss, a distant look in their eyes, a lack of interest in anything, restlessness or unusual stillness, a change in the way that your dog smells, and a changed temperament.

Seeking Comfort

Dogs may become clingier when they begin approaching the end of their lives. They likely won't feel well and some dogs will look to their owners for comfort.

Generally, you either bury the dog or cremate the dog. If the dog dies at the vet's office or an animal hospital, they can arrange for cremation and then you can decide whether to bring the ashes home, bury them somewhere, or leave them with the cremation facility, to be mingled with other pets' ashes.

Some sick dogs deteriorate quickly in a matter of hours while for others, the process of dying can take several days or even weeks. There is no specific time range in which a dog will naturally pass away. Other dogs may appear to be dying for days or weeks before it actually happens.

Their body will go completely limp. If still open, their eyes will have a blank stare. Their heart completely stops beating. As all tension leaves their muscles, they may release urine or defecate as the muscles that control these bodily functions completely relax.

Some dogs seek out the comfort and company of their humans to the point of clinginess, while others become more solitary and seek quiet corners to be alone. Some dogs seem to know when they are about to die and wander off to a secluded location in the house or yard for their final moments.

Yes, your dog will be waiting for you in heaven. All dogs go to heaven because dogs are good and have no malice in their heart. Your dog deserves a peaceful and happy afterlife, including you by their side. You can feel better knowing that you will reunite with your four-legged friend at the gates of heaven.

Do dog spirits visit?

Pet spirits absolutely exist and visit their owners, said Janice Dreshman, a registered psychic medium in Lily Dale, N.Y., a spiritualist community. She also has a medium practice in Pittsburgh.