What do we do about our lonely dog now that his mate is gone?

Question

Just today we found that our female Rat Terrier, Beebee, died.
We figure that she must have gotten sick and it just happened as we didn't notice anything strange.
Thing is, our male Rat Terrier, Tyrone, is now heartsick.
He is constantly barking and howling at the house because he wants her back.
They grew up together, as Beebee was only a few months older than him and we got them as wee pups. We've had them for at least 10 years or so. (We can't really remember when we got them, but it was a while ago).
SO what do we do about Tyrone?
Is he going to go in a state of depression? Is there anything we can give him to help calm him down?
Is the only choice to get another dog for his companionship?

I've heard before of dogs just going into depression after their mate died until they themselves die.

Answer 1

About eight years ago, I had two dogs and one died.
He was only seven and it was unexpected. The dogs were
about the same age, they were good companions for each
other, but the one that died was more playful, the other one
just liked to lie on the couch. I used to take them everywhere
together, especially to the vet, and when they were groomed.
I had to because my female would get upset when I took
him away. The male was the one that died.

Anyway. My heart was so broken, I didn't notice at first that
my other dog had not left the doorway. She was mourning
to. She would only sit by the door and I talked to my vet
about it and he said that she would get over it in a few days.

Well, days led to months, and my poor dog, was so upset.
She ate normally but had no interest in anything.

So one day on my way home, I picked up another dog. I
hadn't discussed it with my husband, and when I came home
I said, here hold this. But my other dog, got up from the
door way, and started showing all this attiude. She didn't
like the other dog at first, because she was still waiting
for my other dog to come back, but after a few weeks, they
were both playing. Dogs do mourn, and not just for other
dogs, I have seen it for cats to. I would suggest getting
another dog, if you can, cause even though you love your
dog alot, there's nothing better he can relate to more than
a companion. I am sorry about your dog.

Answer 2

I'm so sorry for your loss. You should read the book "When Elephants Cry". Yes, animals have emotions, and you pup can go into mourning. I'd say give him lots of love and companionship. Get him to the vet to make sure that whatever caused Beebee's passing didn't get to Tyrone if it was some sort of contaminant.

If you don't want another dog, you can take Tyrone to the dog park for socialization.

Good luck.

Answer 3

What a terrible situation. You don't want to drug the poor baby. Let him grieve for a while just a humans do and then take him to your local animal shelter and find him a dog with his same energy level. This is important, especially since he sounds like an older dog. You don't want to overwhelm him all over again. Getting him another companion is a must or he could become really neurotic or as you said, die of a broken heart.

Answer 4

Give him a few days. Try to perk him up with toys, treats (but not too many), some extra walks. If he's not better within a few weeks, I would consider getting another dog. Maybe not a puppy, but something around 1 year or so. Hopefully he'll get over it. It is very hard for some of them to lose another, especially when they grew up together.


**one thing I would check Tyrone for is Heartworm. A lot of times this worm shows no symptoms. My friend came home from work one day, and her cat was dead at the door. He was jumping and playing that morning. So I would ensure Tyrones physical health before addressing his emotional health. Good luck you guys!

Answer 5

I don't think your dog is necessarily depressed, but dogs go through a mourning / grieving period when their companion dies, just as people go through such a period when a beloved pet or a family member passes away.

Normally, this lasts a couple of days or a couple of weeks. Spend more time with Tyrone and make sure you keep your normal schedule of feeding walks, etc. Having a strong routine always helps dogs adjust.

Answer 6

Well, you can try to find a new "buddy" and pal for him. But, it wouldn't be the same. Dogs are like humans once their partner is gone there's nothing you can do but, comfort. So, try taking him out on a walk and to pet-smart to pick out a toy. Dogs have feelings too.

Answer 7

Your dog is grieving just like we do when we lose a mate. So sorry, all you can do is be there give him cuddles and lotsa love.
I personally would recommend a visit to the shelter (and take your dog with you!!) Let him choose a new friend with you

Answer 8

Give him time, time will mend a broken heart and lots of love rub his tummy and give him some wonderfull treats, he will get over it. Does he like to play with stuffed toys get him a new one to cuddle up with or tear apart, he will be all right. Enjoy you companion today take him for nice walk.

Answer 9

I really dread this very thing with my dogs. It's wonderful when your dogs are so close and yet, when one dies, the survivor will definitely mourn. Just give him the time he needs to mourn and be there for him. Love him.

Answer 10

Go talk to Tyrone. Explain to him what death is. Explain to Tyrone that Beebee is in a better place. Remember to talk like Scooby Doo when you do this.