In 2022, a University of Milan team surveyed 426 Italian owners who had lost one of two dogs. 67% said the other dog sought more attention. 57% said it played less. 25% said the changes lasted over six months.
Springer Nature (Scimex, Australian Science Media Centre)Our other dog seems to be grieving too
What people do around the world
Keep feeding and walk times the same
RSPCA: familiar times can reassure them
RSPCA「One of my dogs just died and another is dying, so I worry the one left will be lonely.」
Oct 2026Original post・Bluesky
Give extra play or quiet time together
RSPCA: whatever they seem to need
RSPCAAsk a vet if eating or sleep changes
Morris Animal Foundation: these changes can be health issues
Morris Animal Foundation「It has been a few weeks, and our other dog, who is 12, won't eat or sleep and cries for them every morning.」
Oct 2026Original post・Bluesky
Stay close and do things together
the study author's advice, so they feel protected
NBC NewsUpdated 29 Oct 2026.