What to Do When a Dog Dies at Home

What to Do When a Dog Dies at Home: Step-by-Step Guide & Aftercare Options

Losing a beloved dog is heartbreaking, and when it happens at home, knowing what to do when a large dog dies at home can be overwhelming. Seeking immediate support from a friend, family member, or pet bereavement group can provide both emotional and physical assistance during this difficult time. Handling a large dog's body requires care and preparation. This guide will walk you through practical steps while offering emotional support during this challenging time.


What To Do When Your Dog Dies: Confirming Your Dog's Passing

If your dog passes peacefully at home, take a moment to check for vital signs. Signs of death include:

  • Absence of breathing or heartbeat

  • Unresponsiveness

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control

  • No blink reflex when touching their eyes

If you are unsure, gently touch their eyes—if there is no reflex, they have likely passed. Contact your veterinarian or a pet emergency service for immediate guidance if needed to ensure your beloved dog is handled with care.

Recognising the Signs of a Dying Dog

Recognising the signs of a dying dog can be a challenging but essential part of the grieving process. As a pet owner, it’s crucial to be aware of the physical and behavioural changes that may indicate your dog’s life is coming to an end. Some common signs of a dying dog include:

  • Loss of appetite and weight loss

  • Decreased mobility and difficulty walking

  • Increased sleeping and lethargy

  • Changes in breathing patterns, such as rapid or labored breathing

  • Decreased responsiveness to stimuli

  • Changes in vocalization, such as whimpering or whining

If you suspect your dog is nearing the end of their life, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to discuss the best course of action and ensure your dog’s comfort and dignity. Your vet can provide guidance on managing symptoms and making your beloved pet’s final days as peaceful as possible.

2. What to Expect as Your Dog’s Life Ends

When a dog dies, it can be a heart-wrenching experience. Understanding the end-of-life process can help you prepare and make informed decisions.

Physical and Emotional Signs of Decline

  • Decreased appetite and water intake

  • Labored breathing or difficulty moving

  • Reduced responsiveness

During this time, focus on providing comfort and relief. Your veterinarian can guide you on managing symptoms and ensuring a peaceful passing. In some cases, euthanasia may be the most humane option to prevent suffering.


3. Handling Your Dog’s Body

Be Prepared for Physical Changes in Your Dog's Body

After death, a dog’s body will begin to stiffen (rigor mortis) within a few hours. If immediate arrangements can’t be made, it’s best to position the body naturally and keep them in a cool place to slow decomposition. In some cases, euthanasia may be the most humane option to prevent suffering and ensure a peaceful dog's death.

Gather Necessary Supplies

Gathering the necessary supplies for handling a deceased pet is crucial to ensure proper care and respect.

  • A large blanket, towel, or pet body bag

  • Thick plastic sheeting or heavy-duty rubbish bags

  • Gloves for protection

  • Disinfectant wipes for cleaning up fluids

Moving Your Dog Respectfully

Handling a large dog's body may require assistance. If possible, enlist the help of a family member or friend.

  1. Gently place your dog's body on a blanket or plastic sheet.

  2. Carefully wrap their body, ensuring their head and limbs are positioned naturally.

  3. Secure the wrapping with tape or straps if needed.

  4. If storing temporarily, place the body in a cool, dry area such as a garage or laundry room.

4. Aftercare Options: Burial, Cremation, or Disposal

Cremation

Many pet owners opt to have their pet cremated, which can be arranged through a local vet or pet crematorium. Options include:

  • Individual cremation: Your pet’s ashes are returned to you in an urn.

  • Communal cremation: Pets are cremated together, and ashes are not returned.

  • Cost: Services typically range from $100 to $400, depending on the provider and cremation type.

Burial of Your Pet's Remains

If you choose home burial, check with your local council to ensure it’s permitted. Guidelines:

  • Choose a location away from water sources.

  • Dig a hole at least one metre deep to prevent scavenging.

  • Consider placing a marker or memorial item for remembrance

Alternatively, a local pet cemetery offers dedicated burial spaces with professional handling.

Council Disposal Services

Some councils provide pet disposal services. Contact your local council or vet's office for guidance on available options.

5. Honouring Your Dog’s Memory

Creating a tribute to your pet can help with the healing process after your pet's passing.

  • Plant a tree or flower in their memory.

  • Create a photo album or scrapbook filled with cherished memories.

  • Commission a custom pet portrait or engraved stone as a tribute.

  • Hold a small memorial with family and friends to share stories and honour their life.

For those who wish to keep a physical reminder, consider cremation jewellery to carry a small portion of your pet’s ashes with you.

6. Coping with Grief

Losing a pet is deeply emotional for any pet parent, and there’s no right or wrong way to process grief.

Ways to Navigate the Grieving Process

  • Talk to friends or family who understand your bond with your dog.

  • Join a pet loss support group or seek professional counselling.

  • Allow yourself time to heal before considering another pet.

  • Write a letter to your dog expressing gratitude for their companionship.

  • Seek guidance on handling your pet's body to ensure proper care and respect.

Notifying Your Workplace and Others

When your dog passes away, it’s essential to notify your workplace and others who may be affected by the news. This can include:

  • Your employer: Inform your employer of your dog’s passing and request time off to grieve and make arrangements.

  • Family and friends: Reach out to loved ones to share the news and seek support.

  • Pet-sitters or dog walkers: Notify anyone who may have been caring for your dog to ensure they are aware of the situation.

  • Veterinary clinic: Inform your veterinarian’s office of your dog’s passing to ensure they can provide guidance and support.

Notifying others can help you process your grief and ensure that everyone is aware of the situation. Taking the time to communicate with those around you can provide a network of support during this difficult period.

Considering Pet Insurance and Costs

When your dog passes away, it’s essential to consider the costs associated with their care and aftercare. Pet insurance can help alleviate some of these costs, but it’s crucial to understand what is covered and what is not. Some costs to consider include:

  • Veterinary care: The cost of veterinary care, including euthanasia, can be significant.

  • Cremation or burial: The cost of cremation or burial can vary depending on the location and type of service.

  • Memorialization: The cost of memorializing your pet, such as a headstone or urn, can also vary.

Pet insurance can help cover some of these costs, but it’s essential to review your policy and understand what is covered. Additionally, some pet owners may choose to set aside funds specifically for pet care and aftercare to ensure they are prepared for any unexpected expenses. Planning ahead can provide peace of mind during an emotionally challenging time.

7. Helping Family Members & Surviving Pets Cope

Supporting Children

  • Be honest and open about what happened.

  • Use age-appropriate language to explain death.

  • Encourage them to express their feelings through drawing or storytelling.

Helping Other Pets

Surviving pets may also experience grief when a pet passes. Signs of mourning include:

  • Loss of appetite

  • Increased lethargy

  • Searching for their lost companion

Provide extra love and attention during this time.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my dog dies at home?

Contact your veterinarian for guidance on the next steps when a pet dies, including burial, cremation, or disposal options.

Can I bury my dog in my backyard?

Some areas allow backyard pet burial, but it’s essential to check local regulations.

How long does it take for a dog’s body to decompose?

Decomposition varies based on temperature and environment. In warm weather, it can start within hours.

Can I donate my dog’s body to science?

Yes, some veterinary schools and research institutions accept donations for educational purposes.


9. What Not to Do After Your Dog Dies

Losing a pet can be overwhelming, and it’s essential to avoid common mistakes.

Do Not Delay Handling the Body

A pet's remains begin decomposing immediately, leading to odours and potential health hazards.

If you cannot arrange for burial or cremation right away, store the body in a cool place.

Avoid Burying Without Checking Local Laws

  • Some areas have restrictions on pet burials to protect groundwater.

  • Always check with your local council before burying your pet at home.

Do Not Rush the Grieving Process

  • Grieving a pet is difficult, and it’s normal to feel upset.

  • Give yourself permission to mourn and process the loss at your own pace.

  • Seek help from pet support groups or counsellors if needed.

Do Not Keep Your Feelings Bottled Up

  • Opening up to someone who has been through the same thing can provide comfort.

  • Sharing grief with supportive friends and family eases the burden.


Final Thoughts

A dog's death is never easy, but knowing what to do when a large dog dies at home can help ease the stress during this emotional time. Treat yourself with kindness, seek support, and honour the special bond you shared with your pet. They may be gone, but their memory will always live on in your heart.

Sarah Whitmore - Memorial Consultant

About the Author: Sarah Whitmore

Memorial Consultant & Cremation Specialist

With over 12 years of experience in the funeral and memorial industry, Sarah Whitmore has guided countless families in choosing the perfect urn to honor their loved ones. She specializes in cremation traditions, personalized memorialization, and grief support.

Her compassionate approach ensures every family makes informed decisions during difficult times.