Question about a heartbroken dog

[Birdsong 82]

My coworker lost his eldest dog that he’s had for about 17 years and I know it was heartbreaking for him, but he has a younger dog who is confused in acting strange and I think just heartbroken because she grew up with the other since she was a puppy. My friend keeps trying to figure out ways to, help her heal. She’s just acting so strange and distant. If anyone’s ever gone through this situation, you have any advice. I know he’s heartbroken from the situation but it’s even more heartbreaking to have to figure out how to help a dog who’s just as heartbroken. They’re both dachshunds if that helps any. But if anybody has any advice would be appreciated greatly.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Dogs do grieve the loss of their dog siblings. Some more than others. Time will help. Does your friend plan to get another? A new dog can help. Sometimes not right away, but most dogs appreciate the companionship of other dogs. They are pack animals.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Is your coworker open to getting another dog? Might not work in all cases, but having a new friend may be comforting for the surviving dog. Whenever we lose a dog we generally start looking for another immediately.

If a new dog isn't on the table, maybe taking the surviving dog to a dog park or for play dates at a kennel/dogsitting service would still serve to help distract it and give it something new to focus on.

 

[Birdsong 82]

He’s not planning on another dog due age ( he’s only in his mid 60s and he talks like he’s gonna die any day.) He does however, plan on well almost everywhere except Work because he can’t and being engaged more with outside of the house. She’s a very hyperactive dog for being 10 years old so he knows it’ll take a little extra patient and work. He’s just worried because everything he’s trying to do to at least calm her hasn’t been working. She’s just kind of standing there looking sad. He knows that she misses Maddie, but he was just wondering if there was anything he could do in the meantime to try to help. Like I told him I think she just needs some time to adjust first before she can start to heal But I know it’s worrying him to death

 

[Birdsong 82]

And I guess I shouldn’t necessarily call him my coworker because I’ve worked there so long certain coworkers become personal friends as well.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

If he plans not to get another dog, than there's not much he can do except try to spend more time trying to play, or take walks with it.

Sounds more like it has separation anxiety. Leaving a tv or radio on may help, or providing a place it can look out the windows.

It's just going to take time for the dog to adjust to a new normal. It may never be quite the same if it's always had a dog companion. Maybe he could find someone with a similar dog and arrange play dates, or look into doggie daycare.

I had one dog who lost every pack member it grew up with, and she never was quite the same. She eventually got used to the new ones, but she never did play the same. Dog grief can be simple or complicated depending on the dog.