15 Things You Should Never Say to Someone Who Lost Their Dog

An elderly woman grieving at a gravesite, conveying sorrow and loss in a serene cemetery setting.
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Losing a dog is a very emotional experience, as dogs are often considered family members and loyal furry friends. If someone close to you is grieving their beloved dog, it’s crucial to avoid dismissive or hurtful remarks. Here are 15 things you should never say to them.

“It’s just a dog.”

A close-up of a curious boxer dog with soulful eyes capturing its playful personality.
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To a grieving owner, their dog wasn’t “just a dog.” They were a friend, family member, and source of unconditional love. Saying this dismisses their grief and the bond they shared. Dogs offer emotional support that’s irreplaceable, and minimizing that connection only makes their pain worse.

“You can just get another one.”

Senior women enjoying a sunny day with their Bichon Frise on a park bench in Gothenburg, Sweden.
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Dogs aren’t objects that can be replaced. Each dog has a unique personality, quirks, and relationship with their owner. Suggesting they “just get another one” implies their dog was interchangeable, disregarding the special memories and emotional connection they shared with their pet.

“At least it wasn’t a person.”

Happy senior woman hugging her guide dog outdoors on a sunny day.
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This comment implies their grief is invalid because it wasn’t a human loss. While the loss of a person and a pet are different, it doesn’t make one less painful. Grieving a dog is about mourning the loss of unconditional love and daily friendship, which is a profound and personal experience.

“They lived a long life, though.”

Elderly man in hat and backpack strolling with a dog along a charming European street.
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Even if their dog lived a long and happy life, that doesn’t erase the pain of their absence. Grief isn’t only about how long someone or something lived but about the hole they leave behind. The loss of daily routines, friendship, and love still hurts deeply, regardless of age.

“You should be over it by now.”

A Vizsla dog standing on a frosty trail in a winter forest, Kelowna, Canada.
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Grief doesn’t come with an expiration date. Everyone mourns differently, and the timeline for healing varies. Telling someone they should “be over it” trivializes their emotions and may make them feel ashamed for still grieving. Instead, offer patience and understanding as they process their loss.

“Why are you so upset? It was just an animal.”

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For many, a dog isn’t “just an animal.” They’re a loyal friend, a source of comfort, and often a cherished family member. This statement invalidates their grief and overlooks the depth of the emotional connection people form with their pets, which can be as strong as any human connection.

“At least they didn’t suffer.”

A happy couple in casual attire holding hands with their Chihuahua in a serene park.
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While the absence of suffering may be a small comfort, it doesn’t make the loss less painful. The grieving person isn’t only mourning how their dog passed but also the fact that they’re gone. Acknowledging their pain without trying to minimize it is far more supportive.

“Did you really spend all that money on a dog?”

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This comment is not only insensitive but irrelevant. Veterinary bills or end-of-life care reflect the love and commitment they had for their dog. Highlighting the cost only adds judgment during an already difficult time, making the person feel like they have to justify their devotion.

“They’re in a better place now.”

Cute shaggy dog walking on green field near barn and trees in countryside setting.
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Not everyone finds comfort in the idea of an afterlife for pets, and even those who do may not want to hear it in the immediate aftermath of their loss. Instead of using platitudes, focus on acknowledging their pain and the good memories they shared with their dog.

“You should get out more to take your mind off it.”

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Grief isn’t something that can be avoided by keeping busy or finding distractions. Suggesting they “get out more” can make them feel dismissive of the depth of their feelings. Allow them the space to mourn in their own way and offer support without rushing them through the process.

“I know exactly how you feel.”

A thoughtful beagle rests with a red scarf, showcasing calmness and comfort.
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Even if you’ve lost a pet, no two losses are the same. Saying this can shift the focus away from their grief and onto your experience. While your intentions may be good, it’s more helpful to listen and empathize rather than compare their loss to your own.

“At least you have other pets.”

Close-up of an Australian Cattle Dog with snowflakes outdoors, highlighting its fur and eyes.
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Other pets don’t replace the ones they’ve lost. Each animal has a unique personality and holds a special place in their owner’s heart. Saying this can feel dismissive, as though their grief for one pet is invalidated by the presence of others.

“You’ll get over it eventually.”

adult black Labrador retriever lying on grass field
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Grief doesn’t simply go away; it changes and evolves over time. Saying this can make someone feel like their emotions are a problem to be fixed rather than a natural process. Instead, reassure them that it’s okay to feel sad and that their feelings are valid.

“You should get another dog right away.”

Portrait of a joyful terrier dog sitting against a vibrant orange and blue background.
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Deciding to get another dog is a deeply personal choice that takes time and consideration. Suggesting it too soon can feel like you’re trying to erase their grief or rush them into replacing their pet. Respect their need to mourn and allow them to decide when they’re ready.

“Why are you crying? It was just a pet.”

black short coated medium sized dog
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Crying is a natural and healthy way to process loss. Suggesting their tears are unnecessary belittles their grief and adds to their pain. For many, a dog is a best friend whose absence is deeply felt, and mourning them is as valid as mourning any loved one.

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