23 Signs That It Is Time to Let Your Dog Go: Signs dog is dying

While the inevitability of death may be an unavoidable truth, it doesn’t make the experience any less difficult—especially when it comes to your beloved pet dog.

The process of saying goodbye can be incredibly painful and heartbreaking, and you may find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the emotions associated with mourning the loss of a companion.

It’s important to remember that even in death, your pup has left you with happy memories and unconditional love to cherish forever.

The life span of a dog varies depending on the breed and size, however, the average life expectancy of a domestic dog is between 10-12 years. Smaller breeds typically live longer than larger breeds, and some breeds such as Chihuahuas can even live up to 15-20 years!

For pet owners, it may be difficult to recognize signs of their pet’s impending death. Knowing when our beloved pet is dying can be heartbreaking but there are certain signs that you should watch for such as loss of appetite, difficulty moving, and changes in behavior. With this knowledge, we can help ease a dog’s transition and make sure they spend their last days with peace and comfort.

Signs dog is dying

When a dog is approaching the end of its life, there are certain signs and symptoms that indicate that it is in the process of dying. These can include reduced energy, loss of appetite and difficulty breathing.

If you observe any of these symptoms in your dog, it is important to speak to your veterinarian as soon as possible. They can help you make the best decisions regarding care and will be able to provide you with advice on how to deal with the situation in a humane way. A veterinarian may also use tests to detect signs of organ failure, fluid buildup in the lungs or abdomen, anemia caused by low blood cell count, and changes in brain activity.

1. Indifferent

When a dog is nearing the end of its life, it may become indifferent to its surroundings. Your beloved pup may no longer want to go on walks or car rides with you.

• Your dog may lose interest in their people and their surroundings.
• Signs that your dog may be nearing the end of their life include decreased interest in activities or toys that were once a source of joy for them.
• They may no longer greet you with enthusiasm when you come home, or ignore their beloved toy.

That behavior indicates that your dog may not have long left in this world and it is important to recognize this change in mood and prepare yourself for what’s coming. If you notice your pet shifts from being engaged to suddenly uninterested in life’s simple pleasures, it may be time to contact your veterinarian about hospice care.

2. Lack of Coordination

A dog nearing the end of their life may experience a loss in coordination and muscle weakness. This can sometimes make even simple activities, like walking or running, difficult or impossible.

It’s especially important to keep an eye out for these signs in the later stages of your dog’s life so you can be prepared to provide them with comfort care when needed.

A decrease in coordination typically affects all parts of the dog’s body, including its pelvic limb and hindquarters. Additionally, they may stumble while walking or drag their back legs. You might also notice that your dog has difficulty climbing stairs or jumping.

If you notice any of these signs, it is essential to talk with your veterinarian about the best course of action for providing comfort and care for your pet at this time.

3. Depression

You may notice your dog exhibits signs of depression and a lack of interest in life. They may display less enthusiasm for activities they usually enjoy or no longer respond to commands, which can indicate that the end is near.

In extreme cases, your pet may ignore food and drinks, appear distant and quiet compared to their normal behavior, or just stay in one place for an extended period of time.

If your pet is displaying one or more of these signs, we recommend visiting a vet right away. The sooner you can get an accurate diagnosis, the better chance your dog has of having any symptoms managed.

Even if you can’t do anything to stop their life from coming to an end, you can still try to make their time as comfortable and pain-free as possible. While it can be difficult to accept, recognizing the signs and being there for your pet during this vulnerable time is the best thing you can do for them.

4. Irregular breathing

When dogs get weak and near death, their breathing patterns may become irregular. Heavy panting or shallow, strained breaths can both be signs that the end is drawing nearer. If your pup’s breathing has changed abruptly, it’s important to notify your veterinarian as soon as possible, as this is an indication of a serious medical condition. Contact your veterinarian right away if you suspect your beloved pet is nearing the end of its life.

Additional sign with irregular breathing

• Change in breathing patterns.
• Signs of a failing heart include weight loss.
• Decreased appetite.
• Lack of energy or enthusiasm for usual activities.
• Weakness in the back legs, and disorientation.

If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms and is nearing death, it’s important to provide them with additional comfort until their last breath. It’s natural for a dog to begin searching for dark, calm places when they are close to death. Providing your pup with a soft blanket and lots of love can ease their transition into the afterlife.

5. Fecal Incontinence

Many dogs may begin to lose control of their bowel movements as death nears. If you notice your pet having difficulty holding in or passing its waste, this may be a sign that your pup is getting ready to die.

This can often be accompanied by involuntary urination as mammals instinctually pass urine when they are dying. Make sure they have plenty of clean bedding available and contact your vet if the incontinence persists.

In the days leading up to death, you may notice your dog experiencing a slowdown in their bodily functions. A common symptom of this is fecal incontinence. This is when a pup has difficulty controlling the passing of its stool and may even become completely incontinent.

If your pup begins to experience this, ensure they have access to clean bedding at all times and contact your vet if the situation persists as there might be something else causing it. Knowing the signs of your pup’s decline can help you provide better end-of-life care for them and will prepare both you and your pet for what’s to come time.

6. Extreme tiredness

A decline in appetite or extreme lethargy can be a sign that it is time to let your dog go. If your pet no longer enjoys their favorite food or treats, refuses to eat even after being hand-fed, and shows signs of exhaustion, they may be ready to go peacefully. Giving them extra love during this time can help bring comfort and peace.

If you notice your dog exhibiting extreme tiredness and a decline in appetite, it is important to take prompt action. First, talk to your vet as soon as possible about whether it may be best for them to enter their final rest peacefully.

Once you have made that decision, be sure to provide extra love and comfort for your pet during this time. You can also consider providing pain medication or hospice care if needed, to ensure that they do not experience any unnecessary suffering during the end of their life.

7. Loss of appetite

Losing interest in food is a classic sign that your dog is getting closer to the end of their life. If your pet no longer enjoys their favorite foods, refuses to eat even after being hand-fed, and shows signs of exhaustion while eating, they may not have much time left. While it can be difficult to let go, giving them extra love during this time can help bring peace and comfort to you and your pet.

It is important to provide your dog with the necessary medical care to ensure they are properly taken care of during this time. Depending on the condition and age of your pet, providing a high-calorie supplement or wet food may help increase their appetite.

Make sure that your dog has an easily accessible place for them to sleep comfortably and encourage them to drink fluids throughout the day. Additionally, providing your pet with peaceful, slow walks in familiar surroundings may help bring some joy into their last days.

8. Indigestion and Gastrointestinal Symptoms

As your dog ages, they begin to experience more indigestion and gastrointestinal symptoms such as gas, vomiting or having difficulty passing waste. If you’ve noticed that your pet is having trouble eating or digesting its food, it may be a sign that it’s time to explore the end-of-life options for your pet. Keeping an open dialogue about how your pet is feeling and how you can help them starts with understanding the signs of aging in our four-legged friends.

If you notice your pet experiencing indigestion or gastrointestinal symptoms, contact your veterinarian and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. A checkup is the best way to ensure that your dog is receiving proper care for any illnesses or issues it may be facing.

Your vet should be able to recommend the best treatment options for relieving your pet’s discomfort, as well as provide guidance on managing their health in the near future.

Furthermore, have a conversation with your family about end-of-life options in case these signs are progressions of an incurable condition. Being prepared will allow you and your dog the time to make memories while they are still able to do so.

9. Pain and discomfort

One of the most obvious signs that it might be time to consider saying goodbye to your pet, is when they begin to exhibit signs of pain and discomfort. If your pet is arthritic or has a chronic illness, the pain associated with these conditions can become unbearable over time.

If you have exhausted all and any medical options for helping your pet manage their pain and symptoms and nothing seems to be providing lasting relief, it could be a sign that it’s time for you both to explore more permanent options.

The first step should be consulting with a veterinarian who can give you personalized advice on the best ways to manage your condition.

This may include :

• Pain medications, lifestyle changes such as increased exercise.
• Dietary modifications or supplements.
• Medicine treatments like acupuncture or massage therapy.
• Other interventions.

Working together with a vet to find what best works for your pet could greatly improve the quality of its life and even extend its longevity.

10. Twitching

While it’s normal for an older pet to twitch and shake in its sleep if your pup is twitching frequently or always seems to be shaking while they are awake, this could be a sign that something more serious is going on. Seizures can take a toll on your pet’s quality of life and could even endanger them in certain situations. If your dog has begun to exhibit these symptoms, it may be time to consider some options for easing its suffering.

If your dog is showing signs of twitching or shaking while they are awake, it’s important to bring them to the vet right away so they can receive a diagnosis and obtain the best possible treatment.

Depending on their diagnosis, the vet may recommend medications for pain and/or seizures, lifestyle adjustments such as diet and exercise, or even more aggressive treatments such as radiation therapy.

While it’s never easy to accept that your pet may be reaching the end of their life, it’s important to remember that giving them access to appropriate care during this time can improve both the quantity and quality of their remaining days.

11. Seizures

When a pet begins to experience frequent seizures, tremors, and loss of balance it could be a sign that their time is limited. These symptoms tend to occur more frequently with aging dogs as they can be indicative of neurological issues.

The best thing to do in such a situation is to visit your vet right away and discuss possible medical interventions. However, if it’s determined that the condition is irreversible and further medical assistance will not help, then it’s important to provide comfort measures for your dog.

Keeping them as relaxed and comfortable as possible can help relieve any distress or anxiety they may be feeling from the seizures. Provide plenty of fluid and nutrition during this time so that your dog is well-nourished for the remainder of their life.

Lastly, focus on spending quality time with them and creating positive memories that will last long after they’re gone.

12. Irascibility

A pet’s irascibility or change in personality could also signal the end of its life with you. If your pup is suddenly exhibiting signs of aggression such as biting, or displays fear when approaching people and other animals, it may be time to say goodbye.

lrascibility change in behavior most likely occurs because the brain has begun to experience a decrease in functioning which can lead to confusion and anxiety for the pet.

While it can be difficult to witness a beloved pet in the throes of such emotions, providing comfort and security is the best treatment for this fading pet. Encourage your pup with gentle scratches, provide a warm sleep environment, and create a calm atmosphere without any stressors that may only increase the dog’s confusion.

If necessary, consider speaking with a professional to learn more about dealing with the signs of irascibility in a pet dying. As much as possible, try to make your companion’s last days peaceful while offering consistent love and care.

13. Changes in Gum Color

Changes in gum color can be an indicator of a shift in your pup’s health. Typically, the gums of a healthy dog are pink and maintain their luster, but when the dog is nearing its time to go, you may notice that the gums have taken on a bluish or greyish tint.

Additionally, if your pup begins to stumble as it walks or seems more lethargic than normal, this could be yet another sign that they need more rest than usual.

Other causes to change the color of your dog’s gum:

• Anemia: Anemia is typically caused by a low red blood cell count and can indicate an
  underlying health issue such as an infection or the presence of parasites.
• Dehydration: The gums may become darker due to dehydration, indicating that your pup
  needs more fluids than it is currently consuming.
• Organ failure: Underlying organ failure could also lead to changes in its gum color as well
  as your pup’s general behavior.

If you notice any sign that suggests that your pup is close to transitioning, make sure to take them to the vet immediately so they can receive the care they need before it’s too late.

14. Emotional Detachment

Dogs, like us humans, go through periods of withdrawal and sadness. If you start to see signs of your dog becoming withdrawn or losing interest in activities that they used to enjoy, this could be a sign that their time is near.

Additionally, if your pup stops playing with its favorite toys, stops eating its favorite treats, or becomes clingy and follows you around the house more than normal, it can be an indication that your furry friend is feeling more emotionally attached than usual.

It can be difficult to cope with the emotional changes that come with your dog’s declining health. Watching your pup lose its favorite activities or show more attachment than normal can be heartbreaking.

It’s important to remember that this is natural and that your pup isn’t doing it because they know they are dying—they are simply expressing their emotions in a different way.

Showing them extra love, providing comfort and reassurance, and taking time for special activities together can make the situation easier for both of you.

15. Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss in a dog is a cause for immediate concern. Weight loss can be caused by various health concerns like lack of appetite, digestive issues, diabetes, and cancer.

If your dog loses more than five percent of their body weight suddenly, take them to the vet for an evaluation. A healthy diet should promote good health and keep your pup’s energy levels consistent.

If your dog is dying and is showing signs of weight loss, it’s important to take action quickly. First, make sure their diet is rich in protein and provide them with plenty of fresh water.

If the cause of the weight loss is cancer or an infection, talk to your vet about appropriate treatment options. You should also consult with a veterinarian regarding pain control edication in order to ensure your dog remains comfortable.

Finally, ensure that you are taking time each day to spend with your pup to give them comfort and support as they go through this difficult time in their life.

16. Vomiting

An inability to hold down food or fluids and a general loss of appetite are two of the most common signs that it may be time to let your dog go. If you notice that your pet no longer seems interested in their favorite treats or is refusing to eat altogether, it could be an indication that your dog’s sickness has progressed too far for them to recover. Be sure to speak with your veterinarian about the best course of action for your beloved companion.

If your dog is vomiting and you suspect it may be due to a deteriorating health condition or advancing age, it’s important to make sure they are comfortable. If your pet is dehydrated or weak from lack of nutrients, offer small amounts of the things they used to enjoy eating to encourage them to take in fluids and calories.

Also, be sure to keep their environment as clean as possible and provide extra support and comfort throughout this difficult time. Contact your vet if your pet’s condition worsens so that you can work together on coming up with the best plan of care for them.

17. Diarrhea

Chronic diarrhea or incontinence can be an indicator that it is time to let your dog go. This can be difficult to recognize as some senior dogs suffer from poor control over their bowels due to age-related muscle weakness, but if this has only been going on for a short period of time or seems more severe than usual, it could suggest that the underlying cause is much more serious. Have your vet check out your pet in order to rule out any medical causes and determine the best course of action.

Once the cause of diarrhea has been determined and it is clear that your dog is nearing the end of their life, there are several things you can do to make them as comfortable as possible. Sending home a supply of absorbent pee pads can be helpful since they may not be able to control their bladder.

Additionally, keeping up with vet visits and providing treatment for pain or infections can improve quality of life. You may also want to supplement your regular diet with one that is easier to digest. In some cases, gently massaging the belly can help soothe signs of abdominal discomfort associated with diarrhea.

Finally, spending time with your pet and providing plenty of love and comfort will help them stay comfortable throughout this difficult journey.

18. Temperature changes

If your normally energetic pooch seems to be too hot or cold, it could be a sign that something is not quite right. Dogs should typically maintain an average temperature of between 101-102 degrees Fahrenheit, but if you notice that your pup’s coat feels unusually cool to the touch — and they have not been outside or in a cooler area – then this may be an indication that their health is starting to decline.

Additionally, if they seem to feel hot even when in a comfortable temperature, you should take them for a checkup ASAP as this could provide valuable insight into how their organ systems are functioning.

When a dog is dying, their body temperature often fluctuates, and as a pet owner, it can be difficult to know how to cope with this symptom. One way to help regulate the dog’s temperature is to provide them with peaceful surroundings and comforting bedding.

You can also try giving cool baths or compresses on unusually hot days and providing warm blankets or extra padding when temperatures dip in the evening. Additionally, you may need to adjust your diet – lightening up meals on hot days or supplementing with additional calories when it is cold.

Keeping track of your pup’s temperature can also provide you with peace of mind that your beloved pet is still comfortable despite what may be coming down the road.

19. Body odor

As your pet ages, you may also notice changes in the look and smell of its coat. If your pup begins to emit an unnatural body odor that isn’t addressed by regular grooming, it could signal larger issues. Additionally, if your pet stops grooming themselves as often as they used to or neglects to select areas completely, this is a tell-tale sign that something deeper might be going on and warrants a vet trip.

If your pup is near the end of its life, it can be heartbreaking to see its coat lose its luster, but there are ways to make them more comfortable. Depending on your pet’s condition, regular grooming, like brushing daily and using warm water and mild soap with a sponge or soft towel during baths, can reduce some of their body odor.

Additionally, topical ointments and powders could help keep the area clean if they are unable to groom themselves. Making sure your pet is as comfortable as possible in their final days is key, so bear in mind too that regular brushing not only keeps them smelling better but can act as a loving gesture for both owner and animal.

20. Dull eyes

Aging pets may display signs of a lack of enthusiasm or spark. When your pet’s eyes appear dull and listless, it could signal that your furry companion is losing their vigor and quality of life.

When observing their behavior, look out for features such as difficulty walking, loss of appetite, and lack of desire to play. When multiple symptoms are present, you might need to consider a more difficult decision in the interest of your pup’s well-being.

It’s heartbreaking to watch your pet struggle with ailing health and the symptoms of aging. Unfortunately, there isn’t much that can be done when it comes to dealing with dull eyes in dogs who are dying. If you suspect that your pet is nearing the end of its life, make sure you spend as much time with them as possible and provide love, comfort, and attention so that they feel safe and loved until its passing.

Additionally, if you notice any other symptoms, such as labored breathing or fatigue that may be causing your dog discomfort or distress, have a discussion with your veterinarian about the potential for hospice care to keep them comfortable until their passing.

21. Anxiety

If your dog suddenly begins to act anxiously, especially in a situation that previously didn’t cause them stress, it could be a sign of impending death. You might notice their tail tucked between their legs or their ears pulled back – signs of extreme fear and anxiety that can indicate it’s time to let go.

Additionally, some dogs will become clingy and seek comfort from you more often than usual as they begin to transition.

Dealing with anxiety in dogs can be difficult, especially when your dog is going through the dying process. If you suspect that your dog is experiencing anxiousness before their passing, it’s important to focus on supporting them throughout this period.

While your main priority should be providing comfort and loving support, there are special measures you can take to help relieve the anxiety. For example, many pet owners give extra doses of calming treats, such as CBD for Dogs.

You can also try practicing aromatherapy or massaging your dog around its neck and chest area to soothe its emotions and encourage calm energy. Additionally, spending time outside with nature has been known to reduce anxiety in both humans and animals – a perfect activity to do one last time together with your furry friend.

22. Confusion

As the end of your dog’s life nears, you may notice them displaying signs of confusion and disorientation. They may not recognize familiar people or places that they would typically remember. Additionally, your dog may ‘pace’ back and forth in circles, appear to wander aimlessly or exhibit other types of unusual behavior indicative of mental confusion.

If these behaviors become increasingly frequent, it may be a sign that it is time to make difficult decisions regarding your beloved pet.

Knowing that your dog is dying can be heartbreaking, and the confusion they are exhibiting can make the situation even more difficult. It’s important to provide your pet with a calm and comfortable environment in which to spend their final days. Make sure there are no loud noises or sudden movements if possible, as this often triggers anxiety in dogs who are near death.

Additionally, create a sense of familiarity for them by providing familiar things such as blankets, toys or even music that was used when your pet was healthy. Finally, talk openly and honestly with your vet about their condition so you understand what to expect and can find comfort in knowing you have done everything you could do to help your dog during the end of its life.

23. Clinginess

As your dog nears the end of their life, it may become increasingly clingy or anxious. This may manifest in excessive barking, unexpected whining or howling, or attempts to follow you from room to room. Clinginess and anxiety can also be exhibited in changes in sleep patterns – meaning they would suddenly be more alert during nighttime hours and become drowsy during daytime hours.

If your dog is showing signs of clinginess and anxiety as they approach the end of their life, it’s important to be patient and maintain a reassuring presence. Ensure that you are providing lots of physical contact – gently stroking and petting them – and make sure to offer verbal reassurance in a soft, calming tone. Be mindful when engaging with them to avoid unnecessary frustration or stress, as this could aggravate any existing anxiousness.

Additionally, take time to explore activities that have been enjoyable for them in the past – such as walks together, light games of fetch, or spending time outdoors in nature. Ultimately, comforting your pet throughout this stage in their journey will allow them to experience peace and contentment throughout their remaining days.

5 Things You Should Do To Help Your Dog at the End of His Life

When your dog is at the end of its life, it’s important to make them as comfortable and pain-free as possible. To help your beloved pup have the best quality of life during its final days, here are some steps you can take:

• Consult with a veterinarian: Your vet can perform basic tests to assess your pet’s condition, determine if they are in pain or distress, and recommend a plan of care that aims to keep your furry friend as comfortable as possible. They can also provide advice on the best way for you to proceed with relieving suffering and providing a peaceful end-of-life experience for your beloved companion.
• Provide a comfortable environment: As your dog enters their final days, it is important to provide them with a comfortable and calming environment. To do this, keep the temperature in the room warm and offer your pet plenty of soft bedding. In addition, be sure to move them away from sources of noise and distraction for a peaceful atmosphere.
• Offer regular meals and water: Regular meals and water are still important. Offer small amounts of their favorite food to entice them and keep their energy levels up. If necessary, switch out dry food for canned food or broth in order to make it more appealing to their taste buds.
• Offer comfort and affection: Consider giving your pup extra care and love in the days leading up to its passing. From providing a comfortable spot to lie to supplying plenty of cuddles and extra belly rubs, offering comfort and affection to your dog can go a long way in helping it remain calm during its final days.
• Consider hospice care or in-home euthanasia: In your dog’s final days, if it is in pain and no longer able to enjoy life, you may want to seek out palliative care or in-home euthanasia services. Consulting a veterinarian can assist you in determining if this is the best option for your beloved pet.

It’s important to remember that every dog is different, and the end-of-life experience will vary from pet to pet. If you have any concerns or questions about your dog’s comfort and well-being, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian for advice.

Writen by:

Looking for advice on how to handle your pup? Check out My blog for valuable insights into canine health and training that will be of great help.