My dog lost weight, not eating after pet died. Grief or illness?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | neutered | 8 years and 4 months old | 50 lbs
My dog is eight years old. We had a dog that this dog was really close to but he passed away. Before he passed away, my dog started losing weight. After he passed, my dog lost a lot of weight much faster. He also has only been eating half of his portion. Is there a relation to this or is it another medical issue?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on January 3rd, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While the worsening in weight loss could be related to the loss of your other pet, the fact that there was already weight loss makes a medical issue more likely. There are plenty of conditions that can cause weight loss such as inflammatory diseases, intestinal malabsorption, cancer, among many others. I highly recommend that you have Elvis evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to gather more information and start with diagnostics such as radiographs, blood work and a GI panel. So sorry for the loss of your other pet. Good luck and have a good day!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on August 25th, 2019
Hi. I am so sorry for your loss. It may just be the grieving process, but it would be best to have your pet checked out to make sure that there is nothing else going on that could be causing a decrease in eating. Without an examination it is very difficult to tell as to why he's not eating. Again I'm so sorry for your loss.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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