Things To Do To Support Your Pet After Losing A Friend

When you have a pair or litter of dogs, and you lose just one, it shakes up everything—routines, emotions, and even the energy in your home. These changes affect everyone. Grief in animals is real, and it often shows up as lethargy, anxiety, or changes in behavior. So, how do you help them heal? Here are 15 things to do.

Establish A New Routine

Without their companion, everything might feel unfamiliar. So, to get them back, create a new schedule that feels stable yet refreshing—maybe a morning belly rub before breakfast or an evening stroll in a different park. Structure helps, but adding novelty keeps things exciting. Routine breeds security, and small tweaks ignite curiosity.

Introduce New Toys

Nothing screams “fresh start” like a brand-new toy. We’re talking squeaky plushies, interactive puzzle games, or snuffle mats. These can stimulate their mind and body. Pets, like humans, thrive on novelty. Something as simple as a tug toy could distract them from their sadness and channel their energy positively. Variety keeps boredom at bay.

Increase Physical Activity

Movement is magic. Exercise releases endorphins, lifting spirits and burning off anxious energy. For this one, try longer walks or even agility training. If they’ve been sluggish, start slow—a few extra minutes of fetch can make a difference. Physical engagement keeps them focused on the present, not the past.

Arrange Playdates

If you had a pair of pups and you lost one, the remaining one lost their best friend. However, meeting new ones can help. Arrange playdates with friendly dogs or visit a local dog park. Connection heals, and sometimes, a wagging tail from another pup is the best medicine.

Offer Comforting Scents

Scent is memory. A blanket or bed that smells like their lost companion can provide reassurance. However, gradually introduce new scents: Your own worn T-shirt, a lavender-infused pet bed, or an item from a new friend. FLike we said, familiarity soothes, but freshness paves the way for healing.

Try A Puzzle Feeder

You could also change mealtime into a new fun activity. How? Puzzle feeders. These engage their mind while rewarding their effort. Whether it’s a treat-dispensing ball or a tricky slider puzzle, mental stimulation is as vital as physical exercise. A distracted mind is a happier mind.

Give Extra Affection

Some pets withdraw after a loss, while others seek extra comfort. Honor their needs—more cuddle time, belly rubs, pats, or simply your presence. Physical touch releases oxytocin, the bonding hormone. A gentle ear scratch or a quiet moment together can be as powerful as words of reassurance.

Explore New Environments

New sights, smells, sounds, and tastes break the grief cycle. A car ride to a scenic trail or a weekend getaway may stimulate their senses and introduce them to new things. Fresh experiences prevent them from dwelling on absence and instead encourage them to embrace new adventures.

Provide A Safe Space

Sometimes, they just need a quiet retreat. So why not create a cozy bed in a low-traffic area or set aside a covered crate to become their sanctuary? Giving them a space to feel secure and unbothered may offer your pet some comfort. A designated “safe zone” allows them to process emotions freely from external stress.

Teach A New Trick

Engagement sparks joy. Learning a new trick—whether it’s “spin,” “high five,” or even “roll over”—provides mental stimulation and a sense of accomplishment. Keep training sessions short, positive, and treat-filled. A little challenge keeps their brain busy, redirecting focus to something fun.

Use Calming Aids

Anxious pets might benefit from calming tools like weighted blankets or pheromone diffusers. White noise machines or pet-friendly aromatherapy can also ease stress. Grief manifests in anxiety, but soothing elements help them feel safe and supported in their healing journey. Remember to talk to your vet first before trying any of the above.

Reinforce Positive Behaviors

Dogs mirror emotions, so if they sense your sadness, they might withdraw, too. Instead, reinforce moments of joy—when they engage with a toy, respond to commands, or show interest in activities, reward them with treats and praise. Encouraging positive behavior creates an upward spiral of happiness.

Introduce A Companion Gradually

Thinking about another pet? Introduce the idea slowly. Start with short encounters with other animals to gauge their interest. Some pets thrive with a new buddy; others need time. Pay attention to their reactions. Don’t rush the process. The right companion at the right time can reignite their zest for life.

Create A Tribute To The Lost Pet

Honoring the one they lost helps both of you heal. A memory book, a framed photo near their bed, or even a tiny paw-print garden stone keeps their spirit alive. Acknowledging the loss with love instead of sadness helps your pet understand that while their friend is gone, they are not forgotten.

Be Patient And Present

Healing isn’t linear, even for dogs. Some days will be easier than others. In this case, offer patience and consistency. More than anything, your pet needs you—not in a rushed or forced way, but in a steady, reassuring presence. Their spark will return; when it does, you’ll know every effort was worth it.