History of Dogs Sensing Death in the Family
For years, people have debated on whether or not dogs can actually sense death. Some people argue that because dogs have much better senses than people, they are genetically created to be more aware of things such as sickness or death. One thing that is accepted by people from both sides of the argument is that dogs are very observant and are probably one of the first beings that will notice even the slightest change in their owners demeanor.
For example, consider when you are ill. Oftentimes, when a dog owner doesnt feel well, their trusty side-kick is nearby. Many dogs are nurturing and simply want to take care of their owner. Because of this, they will likely notice if your condition doesnt improve. Furthermore, if you exude sadness or anxiety about your health or the health of a loved one, your dog will pick up on those vibes easily.
Do dogs understand death?
It’s not really clear if dogs actually understand death. What we do know is their heightened senses may be able to detect physical changes that happen to a person after they die.
“The absence of life changes the way the body functions, the way it smells, and so on, and dogs detect these changes in ways we cant understand,” Shojai told The Dodo. “The chemicals/scent given off by living creatures is different than that of a dying person or someone that has passed away. The body sounds also change.”
For example, if your dog’s hearing can pick up on your breathing or even your heartbeat, it’ll also register when those sounds stop.
“There also may be other signs were not able to understand in terms of visual changes,” Shojai said. “We believe that some animals (including dogs and cats) have the ability to see in the infrared spectrum, so there might be changes as the body ceases to live that pets detect and we cant.”
Do dogs know when their sibling dies?
“Dogs don’t necessarily know that another dog in their life has died, but they know that individual is missing,” says Dr. … Your dog simply knows that their friend is no longer present and may exhibit one or more symptoms of grief including: Withdrawal from people and other pets. A lack of appetite.
When you kiss your dog, you may notice signs that indicate they know that the kiss is a gesture of affection. As puppies, this is not something that dogs would recognize, although they would feel you doing it. … Of course, dogs don’t know what kisses actually are, but they learn to realize that they are good.