What are the signs a dog is dying, and how to know when it's time?

Poor Jake! I'm sorry he's so sick. Yes, even with cancer, a dog can still eat and drink, but as the cancer advances, his appetite will decrease and disappear. You can speak to his vet to discuss if it's time to let him go or not. Again, I'm sorry.

This can be a very difficult decision, especially with stoic (or stubborn) dogs. As long as he is eating, drinking and behaving normally otherwise, he may be fine. Signs of pain or discomfort include lethargy, loss of appetite, panting, drooling, lameness or walking "hunched". Whining is typically the last thing dogs do when in pain. If you haven't already, discuss palliative care with your veterinarian. Keep track of Chopper's "good" days and "bad" days. When the bad days outnumber the good ones, it may be time. I am sorry you are facing this decision. It is always one of the most difficult decisions for a pet parent and a veterinary professional to make.

Unfortunately, yes cancer is painful to dogs. Dogs are quite good at hiding their pain, so they often do not show many outward signs of being in pain until they are very sick and quite painful. I'm sorry she is so sick :-(

I am very sorry to hear about your loss of Jake. Based on this information, I believe you made the kindest and most humane decision to let Jake go, as this information all supports a diagnosis of an invasive tumor in a region not amenable to treatment.

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Louie. I'm so sorry that you and him are going through this. I usually tell clients that once he stops eating, drinking, develops difficulty breathing, becomes severely lethargic, etc. it's time to start thinking about euthanasia to prevent suffering. So those are the guidelines I suggest. Again, I'm so sorry you are going through this. I wish you the best in the coming days. Remember, this is the hardest thing that humans will go through in this life. Follow your heart. Louie will tell you when he's ready. God Bless

I am so sorry about Nubby. It definitely sounds like it is time for an exam/consult re: humane euthanasia with a veterinarian you are comfortable with. Yelping when moved, panting and shaking when at rest are likely signs that Nubby is in pain. Incontinence and inability to use her back legs are definite factors that diminish quality of life. Wishing you strength and love during this difficult time.

The blood could be coming from the tumor itself, or sometimes dogs with tumors are more likely to develop urinary tract infections. If she is also straining to urinate it may be that her quality of life is beginning to be affected. Before you make any decisions you should recheck with your vet. They could check her urine for bacteria and can also discuss what signs to look for that might indicate it is time to consider euthanasia.