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My dog is howling alone since her companion passed. How to help?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 6 years and 8 months old | 2 lbs

I had two dogs but the eldest passed away three weeks ago, my younger dog has never been left in her own before and my neighbor advised me yesterday as soon as I left her she is howling and crying all day, how can we help her settle?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on May 16th, 2017

Poor Madge! I'm sorry to hear about your loss. Dogs can and do mourn much like people do, so it is likely that she is feeling a bit lost and afraid now that her friend is no longer there. There are a few things you can do to help with separation anxiety, including playing a soothing talk radio or TV show while you're gone, leaving a puzzle toy to distract her, going on a long walk to tire her out prior to your leaving, or having a T-shirt or blanket that smells like you or your passed away pup to cuddle with. Pheromone diffusing collars can also help by releasing a calming pheromone to help reduce stress and anxiety. If you can, coming home for breaks during the day to let her out and play with her may help reduce her anxiety.

If the problems persist or do not improve, speaking with a trainer or behaviorist in your area may help. They may be able to formulate a training plan to help Madge feel a bit better and get comfortable in her new situation.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 25th, 2018
Hi there and thank you for using PetCoach to address your concern. This sounds to me like a case of severe separation anxiety. I would recommend having a read of the following article to help guide you on how to address this problem. You can even use supplements such as NaturVet Quiet Moments with Melatonin to help calm Ruby down when you leave her alone. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

( https://www.petcoach.co/article/separation-anxiety/ )
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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