Dogs are often by our side for many years. On average, they live between 10 and 15 years. How old your dog actually gets depends mainly on its breed and size. But as hard as it is, there comes a time in every dog’s life when you have to say goodbye.
Especially when it comes to this sensitive topic, you may feel overwhelmed. When is the right time? How can you tell that your dog no longer wants to live? And how can you make this final journey as dignified and gentle as possible—for your dog and for yourself?
Perhaps you’re at exactly this point right now. Or maybe you sense that this moment is drawing nearer. This post is meant to support you through this emotional phase. To that end, we spoke with Dr. Ines Holz, a veterinarian who specializes in end-of-life care for dogs, and she’s sharing her experiences from her daily practice with us.
- A decline in energy, withdrawal, a “blank” stare, loss of appetite, and—above all— a lack of zest for lifeare the clearest signs that your dog is nearing the end of his life.
- No one knows for sure whether your dog “senses” its own death, but many dogs become withdrawn in their final days or conspicuously seek your company.
- The dying process often occurs in stages; sometimes a dog may seem alert and active again shortly before death, but this is not a sign of improvement.
- When saying goodbye, peace, closeness, and dignity are what matter most. Natural support, such as CBD, can help during this time.
How can I tell if my dog is dying? The 5 Signs
There are several signs that a dog is nearing the end of its life, and these signs vary greatly from one dog to another. Sometimes, they’re simply a result of normalaging. However, if several of these signs occur together and become more pronounced, it may be time for a calm, honest conversation with your veterinarian.
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A sharp decline in energy and withdrawal
A dying dog often withdraws—from people, from other animals, and from everything that used to bring it joy. It seems apathetic, sleeps a lot, and barely reacts to stimuli like voices or touch. It’s as if it’s already saying goodbye inside. Some dogs do exactly the opposite and seek your company especially intensely during this time.
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Not wanting or being able to get up anymore
As dogs age, their strength declines, and many have trouble getting up. If your dog is very weak, he may lose control of his bladder and bowels. This isn’t embarrassing for him—it’s simply a sign that his body is deteriorating.
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A blank stare
Their gaze can seem as if it's "passing right through you," lifeless or distant. Some dogs then give the impression that they're "not quite there anymore."
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Loss of appetite and dehydration
Many dogs stop eating and drinking in the final stages; they even turn their noses up at their favorite treats. This is a sign that the body is gradually shutting down its functions.
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No Joy in Life Anymore
Perhaps the most important sign: Your dog no longer shows any joy—in anything. It’s often difficult to accurately assess your own dog’s quality of life, especially when you love him so much and don’t want to let him go.
Does your dog still have a zest for life?
Veterinarian Dr. Ines Holz has developed a questionnaire designed to help you assess this issue. It helps you take a step back and honestly evaluate how your dog is really doing.
Go to the questionnaireCan a dog sense that it is about to die?
No one knows for sure whether a dog “understands” its own death in the human sense; dogs do not think in terms of concepts like “the end” or “tomorrow.” What many owners do observe, however, is that their dog changes noticeably as its time draws near. It becomes calmer, withdraws, or conspicuously seeks closeness with its owner.
Some dogs seek out a quiet, sheltered place to retreat to. Others never leave their owner’s side for a moment, as if they want to spend their remaining time as close as possible. Both behaviors are normal. What your dog certainly senses during this phase isyourmood. Animals are very attuned to our tension and our calm. That’s exactly why the most valuable thing you can give your dog right now is your calm, loving presence.
Don't blame yourself if you're unsure whether your dog "knows." What's more important than that is that he feelssafe and loveduntil the very end.
What is the process of dying like for a dog?
The process of dying is different for every dog, but it can often be roughly divided into three phases. For a dog that passes away peacefully from old age, this process can sometimes take several days. In the case of a serious illness, such as a terminal tumor or organ failure, the process can be much faster and more noticeable. This overview is intended to help you understand what is happening, but it is no substitute for a veterinarian’s assessment.
An Overview of the Three Phases
- Phase 1 – Withdrawal and Refusal:Your dog barely eats or drinks, sleeps a lot, and withdraws. The body begins to conserve energy.
- Phase 2 – Awake Again:Some dogs suddenly seem more active again, even though they’re still not eating. Thisisn’t asign of improvement, but often a last surge of energy. Enjoy these moments without getting your hopes up.
- Phase 3 – the transition:Breathing and heartbeat become weaker and more irregular, the mucous membranes become drier, and the body cools down. Muscles may twitch. Your dog is drifting away more and more.
So, you rarely know it’s time based on a single symptom; rather, it’s the overall picture—dwindling strength, a loss of zest for life, and physical changes—that tells you. If you trust your gut and your veterinarian’s advice, you’ll make the right decision at the right time.
Putting a Dog to Sleep: What to Do When You Feel Guilty?
Many pet owners struggle with feelings of guilt and uncertainty when it comes to deciding when the right time has come to let their dog go. It is precisely these feelings of self-reproach that often make grieving the loss of a beloved companion so difficult.
“The pet owner knows their animal better than anyone else, including the treating veterinarian. There isn’t one ‘right’ time; there is only a loving environment,” says veterinarian Dr. Ines Holz. “Animals don’t think about guilt or timing. They don’t think, ‘Why now?’ They think, ‘Am I cared for? Am I loved? Am I safe?’ If you decide with your heart, if you let them go not out of impatience but out of care, if you are with them—then it is right.”
"If you make your decision with your heart, if you let him go not out of impatience but out of care, if you're there for him—then you're doing the right thing."
— Dr. Ines Holz, veterinarian
Is it better to walk the dog too early or too late?
So it’s often hard to tell when the right time has come. According to Dr. Ines Holz, there’s an important guideline to follow: “Better a little too early than too late.”
Why? “A dog doesn’t dwell on lifespan or days. It doesn’t think, ‘I could have had another week.’ It simply feels: ‘Do I still enjoy being here? Or is everything just effort and pain now?’ When daily life becomes a burden, when pain takes over, when the joy of living is barely visible anymore, then an early farewell can be a final act of love.”
"Too late" often means
Advantages
- a few more days together
Disadvantages
- unnecessary suffering
- physical pain
- Feelings of Guilt
Many pet owners often carry around feelings of guilt for the rest of their lives because they “waited too long.”
"Too early" sometimes means
Advantages
- A dog should be allowed to pass away with dignity and peace
Disadvantages
- a few days less together
Ultimately, every pet owner must weigh the pros and cons for themselves. The attending veterinarian is usually unable to provide much assistance in this regard. Dr. Ines Holz takes a different approach: “Admittedly, my colleagues at the clinic often have little time for in-depth consultations. But I can take that time online.”
How can I make my dog's final moments more comfortable?
When your dog’s life is coming to an end, one thing matters above all else: peace, closeness, and dignity.
1. A familiar and comfortable environment
Create a stress-free, familiar environment. Soft voices, gentle touches, and your presence give the animal a sense of security. Often, simply being there is enough. “Animals are very attuned to our emotions. If we are filled with fear or panic, it can make their own process more difficult. Many animals seek our closeness during this phase—but not necessarily our attention, rather our calm presence,” says Dr. Ines Holz.
A soft bed, preferably in a draft-free area, helps prevent pressure sores. Make sure water is available, even if your dog doesn’t drink much. Sometimes it’s enough to just lightly moisten their lips.
2. Natural Support
Many pet owners also turn to CBD during the palliative care phase.“CBD (cannabidiol), a non-psychoactive component of the hemp plant, is now also used as a supportive measure in veterinary medicine, especially for elderly or dying animals. It is not a substitute for veterinary treatment, but it can help make the transition more peaceful,” says Dr. Ines Holz. For example, it can help alleviate anxiety and relax the dog—without completely sedating it. “Many pet owners report that CBD allows their pet to fall asleep gently and peacefully—without panic, with inner calm. During the dying process or even before euthanasia, CBD can also be administered in a higher dose,” says Dr. Ines Holz.
At nacani, you’ll find gently produced products to help with this, such as ourCBD oilfor daily relaxation or the“Less Stress”herbal blend for times when you’re feeling particularly tense. If you’re unsure about the amount, ourdosage calculatorcan help.
Our Recommendation
How do I cope with the death of my beloved dog?
Losing a dog hits you right in the heart—and that’s okay. Grief is not a weakness, but a sign of a deep connection. Give yourself permission to be sad, to cry, to be angry, or to feel empty. Everyone grieves differently. Some people write a letter to their dog, create a small memorial corner, or plant a tree. This helps transform the pain into something loving.
Talk to people who understand you, whether they’re friends or members of specialized grief support groups for pet owners, such as the one led by Dr. Ines Holz. In her Facebook group“Forever Connected – A Space to Grieve Your Pet,”pet owners can find a community where they can share their experiences and support one another.
In addition, experts like Dr. Ines Holz can also help you. She is a veterinarian who specializes in end-of-life and grief counseling. Her services are aimed at all pet owners who either have a terminally ill pet, a pet that is about to cross the Rainbow Bridge, or who have recently lost their beloved pet and don’t know how to cope with their grief. She offers resources such as grief rituals, a grief journal, various checklists, meditations, and a virtual grief support group—as well as individualized counseling services as needed, such as a six-week grief counseling program, online end-of-life support, and veterinary consultations via telemedicine.
Recognize the signs that your dog is dying
A sharp decline in energy, a vacant stare, and a waning zest for life are clear signs that the time has come to let your beloved dog go. As difficult as this realization may be, it is important in order to spare your dog unnecessary suffering.
If you need help, reach out to experts like Dr. Ines Holz, who can help you walk this final journey together. CBD can also gently support you through this difficult time. You’ve given your dog a good life, and you want to give him a loving farewell. No animal could ask for more.
Do something nice for your dog – with nacani
The products from our small workshop are designed to naturally support your dog’s well-being at every stage of life, from the early years you spend together until the time comes to say goodbye.
Discover it now!Frequently Asked Questions About the Death of a Dog
Will my dog realize that he's being put to sleep?
No. Euthanasia is a two-step process: First, your dog receives a sedative or anesthetic, followed by the actual medication (usually pentobarbital), which causes cardiac and respiratory arrest. The process is painless and takes about 15 to 30 minutes in total. However, your dog can sense your anxiety very clearly—so try to stay as calm as possible while you’re with him.
How much does it cost to have a dog euthanized?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this, because veterinarians are allowed to charge 1 to 3 times the standard rate under the Veterinary Fee Schedule (GOT). In practice, the total cost usually ranges from 100 to 300 euros—including the examination, sedation, and medication. Additional costs for pickup and cremation may also apply.
Can I have my dog euthanized at home?
Yes, many veterinarians offer house calls for this—it’s best to check with your vet’s office early on. This spares your dog the hassle of travel and the unfamiliar, often anxiety-inducing environment of the vet’s office.
Can I bury my dog in my own yard?
In most cases, yes. But it depends on the state. In addition, there may be a few rules you need to follow. If you're unsure, it's worth giving the public order office or veterinary office a quick call.
Is my second dog mourning his deceased buddy?
Animals that have been left behind often show signs of this. They eat less, play less often, or seem more fearful. During this time, make sure to provide them with structure, closeness, and activities.
