Dog In Deep Grief; Any Ideas For Recover?

[suziwong66]

Last week, our breeder gave her matriarch breeding bitch her wings. Sadly, the old girl's daughter (just retired from breeding) has taken the loss deeply and won't interact with the other 9 dogs. She keeps isolating herself; her pup that was kept from the retirement litter follows her and keeps her company but to no avail; the grief still hasn't gotten better.

Has anyone experienced anything like this before and got any advice to share? My breeder is at her wits end.

[Dame Aussie]

In my experience they can act a bit off for a few weeks after losing another dog. I would probably just act normally around her and give it some time. Poor thing

If it was an ongoing thing it would require a vet check if they haven't already had one aswell.

[grumpette]

It does take a fair bit of time for the pack order to settle and for new bonds to form between the dogs. It took Zeph several months to interact with Dee in a playful manner the way Dee and Baylee used to play. Dee did not play ball and swim the way that Baylee did.

I would give her time to establish her place in the pack and to bond with a new dog. The company of the pup sounds like a very good idea.

[persephone]

in dogs who live in such close companionship - yes, it takes time. Extra nourishing food - maybe some B vitamins , and an adaptil spray/collar , but basically don't force her - and keep up as normal a routine as possible .

[Loving my Oldies]

How sad. I have found it very hard when you are dealing with you own grief and to know that a dog is grieving too. Really hits home the extent of the loss.

I agree with the others. It can take time.

[Christina]

A week is no time at all. All that is needed is patience.