Do Dogs Greive?

[Misha]

Just a question to all my fellow bloggers. Misha has been very sad, and now she's reverting to bad "puppy behaviors" that are somewhat puzzling. For example: Whenever she was mad at dad, she would somehow manage to poop on or near his Dining Room chair. In about a weeks time she's managed to do that three times. I make sure she goes for her walks as scheduled, and even make sure I take her out at night like dad used to. But these are "squeezed out just enuf to notice" poops. Even when I give her the final treat of the night, I make sure to say "OK, here's your Pop-Pop treat!" We had dad's cremains on the couch, and she would lay down in front of them, one time she even laid down on top of the box. Now that he's in his place, she lays down on his seat instead of her pillow right next to it. I'm just curious if anyone else has had experience with this, and any solutions to her sadness.

[PetBrags Pet Lovers Paradise]

I think she is most definitely grieving, poor little baby. Yes I have experienced this first hand, more than once. Plus, don't forget that she can feel your pain too. Just be patient and pretend you are starting over on her potty habits. Hopefully she will get past that part. On what to do? I really don't know, except just have her close to you and make her feel secure (which I know you already do).

On this topic: when one of my closest friends passed away in late May of this year, her oldest doggie Molly grieved tremendously and still is. I have a photo of Molly in an incredibly sad state, right after Glenda's passing. I had my cell phone and took the photo real quick. I was outside trying to get a grip and saw this all taking place. Then afterwards, Little Molly stood at my friend's bedroom door all night and practically did not move. Call me crazy, but personally, I think they grieve as much as we do, but in their own way. I am sending hopes, prayers and wishes to all of you, during this terribly difficult time.