7 Heartbreaking Reasons Why Your Dog Needs To Say Goodbye To A Deceased Sibling (The Viral Boxer Story Explained)

Every pet owner who has witnessed the deep bond between two dogs understands that their connection is more profound than simple cohabitation. The recent viral videos, especially the one featuring a heartbroken Boxer saying farewell to his sister, have brought the reality of Canine Grief into sharp focus, proving that dogs mourn loss just as deeply as humans do.

As of December 11, 2025, the emotional footage shared by TikToker Vanessa, showing her Boxer companion nudging and smelling his deceased sister at the veterinary office, continues to circulate, sparking a vital conversation: Do dogs truly understand death, and is a formal "goodbye ritual" necessary? The answer from animal behavior experts and veterinarians is a resounding yes—and understanding this process is crucial for helping your surviving pet navigate their loss.

The Scientific and Emotional Profile of Canine Grief

The concept of a dog saying goodbye is not simply a human projection; it is a critical step in a dog's emotional processing of a major life change. While a dog may not grasp the finality of "death" in the philosophical sense, they absolutely understand that a significant individual is missing from their social group and daily routine. This recognition is the root of their grief.

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Entity Deep Dive: Dr. Marc Bekoff and Animal Emotions

• Name: Dr. Marc Bekoff, Ph.D.
• Expertise: Biologist, Behavioral Ecologist, and Professor Emeritus at the University of Colorado.
• Key Contribution: Dr. Bekoff is a leading voice in Cognitive Ethology, confirming that dogs, and other animals, possess a rich emotional life, including experiencing "Dog Joy" and, critically, Canine Grief.
• On Death Rituals: His work emphasizes that animals engage in death rituals and mourning behaviors, which are essential for processing the loss of a companion.

7 Reasons Why a "Goodbye Ritual" Is Essential for Your Surviving Dog

Veterinarians and pet loss specialists strongly recommend allowing a surviving companion pet to see and interact with the body of the deceased sibling. This seemingly difficult moment provides the surviving dog with what experts call "closure," preventing prolonged anxiety and confusion.

1. It Provides Undeniable Closure

The most important reason is closure. If a companion suddenly disappears (e.g., they are euthanized at the vet without the other dog present), the surviving dog is left wondering. They may search the house, look in their favorite spots, or wait by the door. Allowing them to see and sniff the deceased body confirms the companion is no longer there, preventing this confusing search behavior.

2. Dogs Rely on Scent to Understand Change

A dog’s primary sense is smell. The deceased pet’s scent changes immediately after death, and this shift is the most concrete piece of information the surviving dog can receive. By smelling the body, the dog processes the absence of the "life-scent" and understands the change in status. This sensory confirmation is more powerful than any visual cue.

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3. It Reduces Separation Anxiety

Sudden, unexplained absence can trigger severe Separation Anxiety in the surviving dog, especially if they were closely bonded. They may associate the absence with the last place they saw their sibling (e.g., the car ride to the vet). A formal goodbye helps them attribute the absence to the deceased state, not a temporary separation.

4. It Validates Their Emotional Experience

Dogs are highly empathetic and attuned to the emotions of their human family and their pack. If the humans are clearly distressed and a companion is gone, the surviving dog's own grief (manifested as depression, loss of appetite, or pacing) is a natural response. Allowing them to participate in the goodbye ritual validates their experience as a member of the family unit.

5. It Signals the Beginning of a New Routine

Grief often manifests as behavioral changes, such as a refusal to eat, excessive sleeping, or a general loss of interest in play. The goodbye ritual marks a clear transition point. Pet owners are advised to maintain the surviving dog’s routine as much as possible afterward, but the goodbye itself signals the start of the "new normal."

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6. It Helps Prevent Misdirected Behaviors

Without closure, some dogs may exhibit misdirected behaviors. They might become overly clingy to their owner, or conversely, become withdrawn and hide. Some may even become restless or destructive due to underlying Anxiety and confusion. The clarity of the goodbye can mitigate the severity of these reactions.

7. It Honors the Bond They Shared

The Boxer dog in the viral video showed clear signs of acknowledging his sister, nudging her gently in a moment that resonated with millions of viewers. This public display of affection and recognition is a powerful testament to the depth of the sibling bond. Facilitating this final interaction is an act of love that honors the relationship they shared and allows the surviving dog to complete their natural grieving process.

How to Facilitate a Healthy Goodbye Ritual

The decision to say goodbye is intensely personal, but following expert advice can make the process easier for your surviving pet. The goal is to provide a calm, clear, and sensory-rich experience.

Choose the Right Environment

Many veterinarians now offer Home Euthanasia, which is highly recommended. Being in a familiar environment is less stressful for both the ailing and the companion pet. If a veterinary office is necessary, ensure the companion pet is brought in immediately after the passing.

Allow Time for Interaction

Do not rush the moment. Allow the surviving dog to approach the body naturally. They will sniff, nudge, and perhaps even lick the deceased pet. This process of investigation provides the necessary sensory input for them to understand the situation. This is their way of processing the loss.

Focus on Comfort and Routine

After the goodbye, the focus shifts to supporting the grieving dog. Provide comfort, but avoid excessive coddling that could inadvertently reward the signs of grief. Instead, use brain stimulation through puzzle toys, maintain regular walk times, and offer healthy, enticing food to manage a potential loss of appetite. The surviving dog is now relying on their human family more than ever to navigate the emotional void.