Search
Knowing the signs that a dog may be dying can help you prepare in advance and help ensure that your dog's last days are full of love and light.
Saying goodbye to your dog is one of the hardest things a pet owner must do. Of course, we all want as much time as possible with our beloved pups, and knowing when to let them go can be challenging. But we also don't want our aging or ill dogs to suffer because we love them, and that's where you can help.
Assessing your dog's quality of life can help you determine when it is time to say goodbye and help you provide greater comfort in your dog's final days.
Signs a Dog Is Dying
Before making end-of-life decisions, talk to your veterinarian about your dog's health. Be sure to tell them if you're noticing the following signs, which could mean your dog's time is nearing an end:
1. Pain and discomfort
Pain and discomfort are common symptoms at the end of a dog's life. But how can you tell if your dog is feeling them?
- Pain: If your dog is in pain, it may remain hidden or become reluctant to interact with the family. Your dog may seem to be panting more than usual or trembling. You may also notice other signs of pain like irritability, restlessness or aggression.
- Discomfort: When feeling discomfort, some dogs may sleep more than usual or seek out new resting places for comfort, which they may then be reluctant to leave. Or your dog may struggle to get comfortable and be unable to settle down and rest.
How you can help: Talk to your veterinarian about pain medication and management for your pup. They can help you choose the approach that will work best to get your dog feeling more comfortable.
2. Restlessness
Some dogs may become restless near the end of life. Dogs that are uncomfortable or in pain may pace aimlessly or change positions often. This can also lead to trouble sleeping since they can't get comfortable enough to settle down.
How you can help: Consider setting your dog up with a memory foam bed to help make them as comfortable as possible. Be sure to talk to your vet about pain management options.
3. Loss of appetite and decreased thirst
It is common for dogs to lose interest in food and water in their final days, particularly if they are experiencing nausea or pain. In some cases, your dog's loss of appetite and decreased thirst may be accompanied by other gastrointestinal symptoms, like vomiting and diarrhea.
How you can help: Talk to your veterinarian about whether it makes sense to start your pup on appetite stimulants to help get them hungry or to try giving them water with a needleless syringe or turkey baster. You may also try tempting them with foods you don't usually provide that are wholesome and flavorful, and frozen treats or wet food to help with hydration.
4. Weight loss
You may notice that your dog seems to be losing weight rapidly. While weight loss is common in older dogs, extreme or rapid weight loss can be a sign that a dog is nearing the end of life. Extreme weight loss can occur from not eating or changes in their metabolism due to certain conditions. Your pup is also less likely to want to eat if they're in pain, which results in weight loss.
How you can help: Talk to your veterinarian about whether it makes sense to put your dog on a special diet to help them gain weight. You may also tempt them with treats they love.
5. Vomiting
Vomiting is a common sign of illness in dogs but can be concerning if a dog has a serious illness (such as cancer) or is very old. In combination with other symptoms listed here, vomiting can be a sign that a dog is very near the end of life. Vomiting can signify whether a dog's digestive system is working normally or is shutting down.
How you can help: Vomiting can cause dehydration. Try to give your dog water by offering it frequently or using a turkey baster to drop water or low-sodium broth into their mouth.
6. Dehydration
Dogs that are nearing the end of life may experience dehydration. It could be due to diarrhea or a number of other symptoms listed here, such as vomiting or decreased thirst. Your dog may be dehydrated if they are panting a lot, have a dry nose or mouth, or you notice a change in their skin elasticity.
How you can help: Try to give your dog water by offering it frequently or using a turkey baster to drop water or low-sodium broth into their mouth.
7. Incontinence
Near the end of their lives, some dogs become incontinent and lose control over their bladder and bowels, even if they are mobile. This may be due to depression or general lethargy. Others may be unable to get up to go outside to relieve themselves and may need some extra help from their owners or family members to stay clean.
How you can help: Be patient and compassionate if your dog is having accidents. You may also have your dog wear diapers or place them on a waterproof pet pad if they are in pain or not mobile enough to go outside. Do your best to keep your dog's bed clean and dry and have them lay on a waterproof pet pad. If necessary, you may consider having your dog wear a diaper.
8. Body odor
When an animal's body stops functioning like normal, things can start to smell. This can happen due to kidney disease, metabolism changes, oil build-up in the fur, incontinence, dental disease or poor grooming. You may notice that your dog has a different or stronger odor than usual near the end of life.
How you can help: If your dog likes baths, gently bathe them with warm water. You may consider using dry pet shampoo to brush softly through their fur if they don't like baths. You may also consider washing their bedding and soft toys and providing them with breath-freshening chew treats.
9. Dull eyes
Like people, dogs' eyes can start to fail near the end of life. You may notice that your pup's eyes are cloudy or have trouble seeing. By itself, dull eyes may be a sign of age or an eye condition; however, when taken together with other signs, it could mean something more.
How you can help: Talk to your vet to see if medication might help ease your dog's eye problem. If your dog's eyes are causing pain, you may also request pain medication for your pup.
10. Temperature changes
If your dog is sick, aging or near the end of life, you may notice they get hotter or colder than they used to. These temperature changes are due to hormonal changes that can make it difficult for your dog's body to regulate temperature.
How you can help: Try to keep your dog comfortable by avoiding extreme temperatures. If you live in the heat, keep your pup in the shade and provide cool water. Provide a cozy bed by a warm spot or a pet-safe heating pad if you live somewhere cold.
11. Behavioral changes
You may notice behavior changes toward the end of your dog's life, things like lack of interest, lethargy, depression, anxiety or even aggression or clinginess. This can be due to a lot reasons, from chemical to emotional, and varies from dog to dog.
How you can help: Whatever mood your dog is in, just roll with it. If they want to rest, set them up somewhere safe, warm and comfortable. If they want snuggles, give them all the pets you can. If your dog is showing signs of aggression, give them space and talk to your vet about your options.
12. Lack of interest
As a dog's health declines, it may no longer show interest in its favorite activities. They may not rouse to play with toys, play with their pet siblings, or bark at small animals or passing cars (or the neighbors). A lack of interest in what's happening around them can signify they are near the end of their journey.
How you can help: Let your dog rest in a warm, safe and quiet place. Be sure to keep an eye on other pets or children to help keep your dog's environment calm and stress-free.
13. Lethargy and changes to sleep patterns
Is your dog spending a lot of time alone or napping in quiet, unusual spots? When dogs are nearing the end of life, changes to sleep patterns are common, and they may seem more lethargic. If they lack the energy to go for walks, generally seem listless, and just aren't acting like themselves, it can be a sign of failing health.
How you can help: Let your dog rest, and don't pressure them to get active. Instead, help make them comfortable by providing them with a peaceful, clean, safe place to relax and sleep.
14. Depression
If your dog is experiencing lethargy, fatigue, and lack of interest, it may be depressed. You may notice that your dog is sleeping more than usual or isn't interested in activities, toys or people they used to love. Depression is a common sign at the end of a dog's life as they lose mobility or experience pain.
How you can help: Your vet may recommend anti-depressants depending on your dog's symptoms.
15. Anxiety
Like people, dogs can experience anxiety when they don't understand what's happening around them or within their bodies. This is especially true if your dog is in pain. So if you notice that your dog is whining, pacing, crying or panting, it may be a symptom of anxiety. Sometimes, anxiety can be worse for a dog than pain.
How you can help: Talk to your vet about anti-anxiety medication to help your dog feel calmer and more comfortable.
16. Poor grooming
Due to decreased hygiene and grooming behavior, your dog's coat may also look dull or unkempt. Near the end of life, dogs may be in too much pain or discomfort to groom.
They may also simply be too tired or unable to coordinate the movement required to keep themselves clean.
How you can help: Gently wash your dog with warm water and pet-safe shampoo, or apply pet-safe dry shampoo before brushing your dog's coat.
17. Confusion
Sometimes, dogs near the end of their life experience extreme confusion. They may wander the house aimlessly or get lost in the backyard. There may be times when you think they don't recognize you or your family members.
How you can help: Be patient, careful and gentle with a confused dog. They may nip or growl unexpectedly because they are scared and don't understand.
18. Clinginess
Near the end, many dogs want nothing more than to spend time with the people they love. So your dog may want to stay close to you, getting as much love and affection from you as possible.
How you can help: Give your dog super snuggles and be as present as you can. Enjoy your precious time together.
19. Detachment
Near the end of life, sometimes our beloved dogs want nothing to do with us. If your dog is seeking out quiet places of solitude or isolation, it could be a sign they are near the end of their time.
How you can help: While we may want nothing more than to shower our dogs with love and affection, try to do so in a calm and quiet space. For example, you may wish to remove your dog from other pets, family members or a noisy or crowded environment.
20. Decreased mobility, ataxia and weakness
Unlike a young puppy, many dogs may experience pain and stiffness in their senior years. Decreased mobility and coordination (ataxia) often worsen with age, but this can be exacerbated as your dog grows weaker in his final days. They may struggle to keep up with daily routines, or they may be unable to get up to participate in their usual activities. Many dogs need assistance from their owners during this time, accessing essential resources like food and water, taking medicine or making trips outside to relieve themselves.
How you can help: If possible, limit the amount of movement your dog has to do. Help them outside to relieve themselves, and keep their food and water close by.
21. Twitching and muscle tremors
Muscle twitching or tremors, combined with other symptoms, can be a sign your dog is nearing the end. Muscle twitching can be caused by a number of other symptoms, like dehydration, decreased appetite or thirst or changes in body temperature.
How you can help: One of the best ways to help is to address the underlying reason for the tremors if possible. For example, if your dog seems cold, try using a heating pad for extra warmth. If you notice signs of dehydration, offer them water or broth frequently.
22. Pale gums and cold paws
If your dog has pale gums or cold paws/lips, it could be a sign the end of their time is near. Pale gums and cold extremities can be caused by poor circulation, a sign that the heart is struggling to pump blood.
How you can help: To help give some comfort, you can try gently rubbing paw balm into their pads. You can also try to warm them by dipping them carefully into a bowl of warm water and gently towel-drying.
23. Seizures
At the end of their life, some dogs may start having seizures. This can be the result of metabolic changes, kidney failure or problems in the brain.
How you can help: The most important thing you can do for your dog if they're having a seizure is to keep them away from things that may hurt them, including stairs or sharp edges. Gently hold their head and offer comfort until it passes.
24. Labored breathing
Near the end of life, many dogs have difficulty breathing. You may notice changes in their breath rate (faster or slower) or uneven breathing. You may also see changes to the sounds of their breathing (harsher or quieter). Labored breathing often indicates that a dog is at the very end of life.
How you can help: Hold your dog. Be present and tell them you love them. Prepare to let go.
25. More bad days than good days
Knowing when to say goodbye to your dog can be challenging, especially if symptoms come on gradually. Some pet owners find it helpful to monitor their dog's quality of life by keeping a journal of their dog's good days and bad days.
How you can help: When the bad days start to out number the good, it may be time to speak to your veterinarian about the right time to say goodbye and your options for easing your dog out of this life.
Quality of Life Scale for Dogs (HHHHHMM Scale)
A dog quality of life scale is a tool used by veterinarians, researchers and pet owners to evaluate a dog's well-being and quality of life. It can help you identify how your dog is faring in terms of physical health, mental well-being and overall happiness. The HHHHHMM Scale used by veterinarians stands for:
- Hurt: Is your dog in pain and breathing without difficulty? How is their skin condition, sensitivity and behavior?
- Hunger: Is your dog eating enough and getting good nutrition? Are there changes in their eating patterns or weight?
- Hydration: Is your dog drinking enough water to stay hydrated? Are there any symptoms of excess thirst?
- Hygiene: Are you helping keep your dog's coat, skin and living area clean? Is your dog protected from parasites?
- Happiness: Does your pet seem content most of the time? Do they show signs of enthusiasm and engagement?
- Mobility: Is your dog able to stand and walk? Have you noticed changes in your dog's physical activity or noticed stumbling or seizures?
- "More good days than bad days": Are there more days when your dog seems happy? Does your bond still feel strong? Is your dog in distress or pain?
By assigning scores or ratings to each of these factors, the scale can provides an objective way to track changes in your dog's quality of life over time, gauge the effectiveness of treatments or interventions and make informed decisions regarding the dog's care.
Dog Dying Process: How Long Can It Take?
If your dog is showing signs of nearing the end of its life, you probably have many questions about what happens next. Above all, you probably want to know how long you have left with your beloved pup.
Your veterinarian is the best person to help answer this question for you. However, many dogs follow a similar pattern near the end of their lives that can look something like this:
3 months before passing
You may notice signs like weight loss, dehydration, duller eyes, less grooming and gastrointestinal signs like diarrhea or vomiting.
3 weeks before passing
Your dog may lose even more weight. You may notice signs that they are in pain or discomfort. You may also observe some breathing problems, changes in behavior (like confusion, clinginess or self-isolation) and depression or anxiety.
Days before passing
Your dog may seem distant and uninterested in what's going on around them. They may become more restless than usual or stiller. You might also notice a change in your dog's odor.
How Long Do Dogs Live?
Smaller dogs generally live longer than larger ones, but a dog's average lifespan varies by breed.
Small dogs: 10-15 years
| Breed | Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Chihuahua | 15-17 years |
| Chinese crested | 15-17 years |
| English toy spaniel | 13-15 years |
| Fox terrier | 13-15 years |
| Lakeland terrier | 12-14 years |
| Manchester terrier | 12-14 years |
| Pomeranian | 14-16 years |
| Rat terrier | 13-15 years |
| Russell terrier | 12-14 years |
| Yorkshire terrier | 12-15 years |
Medium-sized dogs: 10-13 years
| Breed | Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Australian shepherd | 12-15 years |
| Boxer | 10-12 years |
| Bulldog | 10-12 years |
| Chinese shar-pei | 12-14 years |
| Chow chow | 11-13 years |
| Cocker spaniel | 13-15 years |
| French bulldog | 11-13 years |
| Poodle | 12-15 years |
| Welsh springer spaniel | 13-15 years |
| Whippet | 12-15 years |
Large dogs: 8-12 years
| Breed | Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Akita | 11-15 years |
| Bernese mountain dog | 7-10 years |
| Flat-coated retriever | 10-12 years |
| Giant schnauzer | 10-12 years |
| Great Dane | 8-10 years |
| Irish setter | 12-14 years |
| Irish wolfhound | 8-10 years |
| Newfoundland | 10-12 years |
| Rottweiler | 10-12 years |
| Saint Bernard | 10-12 years |
End-of-Life Care: How to Help a Dying Dog
While all dogs are different, there are several things you can do to help ease your dog's passing over the rainbow bridge:
- Avoid prolonging their suffering: Talk to your vet about your options. Ask for their advice and what they would do in the same situation.
- Manage their pain: Medication can help your dog feel better if they are in pain. A pet-safe heating pad can also help older dogs who are stiff and achy. Limit the amount of walking your dog needs to do if walking causes them pain.
- Help them drink: Offer your dog clean water at intervals. You can also use a turkey baster to squeeze water or low-sodium broth into their mouth.
- Offer treats: Nothing is off the table (with the exception of toxic foods for dogs such as grapes and chocolate). Enjoy spoiling your pup with things they don't get often.
- Lower stress: Create a calm and quiet environment. This may mean keeping them away from high-energy people (kids) or other pets.
- Continue routines: Avoid big changes in your dog's day-to-day activities and environment. Familiar routines can help your dog manage anxiety and depression.
- Be present: Spend time with your dog. Your presence can help keep your dog calm and know they are loved, even if it's just sitting next to them.
- Be prepared to let go: Learn your options for helping your dog pass over the rainbow bridge. For example, if you think a trip to the vet will cause stress, you may consider an in-home end-of-life experience.
Preparing to Say Goodbye to Your Dog
It is important to remember that while the symptoms above can be signs that a dog is dying, they can also be signs of treatable medical conditions. Therefore, if you are concerned about your dog's health or think it is dying, it is best to visit your veterinarian for an examination. This will also allow you to discuss end-of-life care options for your beloved pet, if necessary.
Palliative care
Consider asking your veterinarian about your options for palliative care, which can help make your dog's final days more comfortable. This may also be a good time to discuss the process of euthanasia and timing with your vet.
Know that if euthanasia is needed, your veterinarian can likely provide that service. Some providers, such as Lap of Love, can perform the service in your home and handle aftercare needs.
Memorials and imprints
Before you say goodbye to your furry family member, you may want to take some time to consider how you'd like to remember them. For example, you may wish to consider creating a bucket list for your pet or revisit some of your pet's favorite places and activities during their final days.
Consider whether you'd like to memorialize your pet by taking ink or clay imprints of their paws.
Final arrangements
Finally, you'll need to consider how you'd like to handle your pet's remains. For example, you may choose to bury your pet or have them cremated. Your veterinarian can help you decide which option best fits you and your family's needs. Many in-home euthanasia services can help with these decisions as part of the service.
Managing Your Grief
Losing a pet is a painful and often inevitable part of owning and loving animals. Take the time you need to grieve their loss, even if you feel silly about it. For many of us, pets are family members.
Here are some things you can try as you move through your grief:
- Print out pictures and create ornaments or a photo album
- Talk to the people in your life about how you feel
- Write down things you love about them — memories you never want to forget
- Connect with a pet loss support group
- Create a digital memorial page or a physical memorial
- Above all, know that you are not alone
Saying Farewell to Your Dog
Pet loss is difficult, but knowing the signs that a dog may be dying can help ensure you'll know when the time comes. Remember that these signs can occur with many health conditions, so it is essential to have your dog evaluated by your veterinarian to determine the severity of your dog's illness. By knowing the signs, you can prepare in advance to help ensure that your dog's last days with you are full of love and light.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you still have questions about a dog's end of life? Here are some answers to commonly asked questions on this topic.
The CareCredit Credit Card Is Here to Help
Saying goodbye to your beloved pet can be one of the hardest things we do, but the CareCredit credit card can be there for you when you need it.* Whether it's your first veterinary visit or your last, CareCredit is here to help you manage the costs of your pet's care. Find a veterinarian near you that accepts CareCredit and download CareCredit Mobile App today to manage your account, find a provider on the go, and easily access the Well U hub for more helpful articles, podcasts and videos.
In addition to pet care, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, cosmetic, vision, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?
Author and Care Expert Bio
Dr. Kathy Wiederkehr (Wentworth), V.M.D.
Dr. Kathy Wiederkehr (Wentworth) has been practicing veterinary medicine at pet care facilities in California since 2001. Most recently, she served as medical director of the VCA PetPoint Medical Center and Resort in Irvine. She is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and became board-certified as a diplomate in Canine and Feline Practice by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in 2010.
Featured Video Care Expert
Dr. Jeff Werber, D.V.M.
Dr. Jeff Werber has been a practicing veterinarian for 39 years and sees his patients at Value Vet in Westwood, California. In September of 1997, Werber became the pet expert for CBS News in Los Angeles, where he was awarded an Emmy for his pet health reporting. He is currently a frequent contributor to CNN, E! Entertainment, KCBS/KCAL-Los Angeles, KTLA, and Inside Edition.
Related Tags
Want to share this on social media?
ARTICLE
