I actually had two dogs, a Golden Retriever (female) and German Shepherd (male). They actually really get along well, play together, share foods, sleep together and explored places together with our neighbor's dog. My female dog suddenly got really ill and died. After that, my male dog changed. He used to eat a lot, being playful and energetic which is now completely opposite. He became timid, he sleeps a lot, eat less and doesn't want to play with other dog like he used to do.
I actually don't what should I do to bring him back to his original state. I've tried playing with him but he's not really interested. I tried taking him out for a walk 3-4 times a week and make him associate with other dogs sometimes but it doesn't seem to work. Can anyone give me advice on what should I do?
The process could take several weeks or even a couple months. It sounds like you're doing the right things: comfort, stimulation, etc. You might try letting the dog sleep or nap with you too.
They are very much like humans and grieve.
My first thought is always have the vet check him out because he may have a physical issue. If he gets a clean bill of health, you may want to talk to the vet about a medical treatment (pheromones or anti depressants) or just let it work the grief through.
It is so hard. When we lost our older dog, our younger one moped for about 1 minute and then was fine. Others mope for months.
Prayers for your pup and for you. May your girl pup's memory always be a blessing!
I'm sorry for your loss, he may recover he may not. When our dog passed her bestie was depressed and we found him one morning on her side of the dog house. He had passed in the night. He never went in her side until that night. Our dogs were both over 13 yrs old so it wasn't too shocking.
This is a page about a dog not eating after other family dog died. Pets can also experience a sense of loss when another pet dies.
Dogs can have strong emotional responses to the death of another pet or one of their people. Sometimes this grief can result in a well trained dog beginning to poop and/or pee inside.
