It’s common for families to wonder if their dog misses the new baby after it leaves the home. Dogs form strong bonds with family members, so it’s understandable to question if they grieve the loss of a baby’s presence. While dogs may not comprehend the full complexity of human babies growing up and moving out, they’re intelligent enough to notice the absence of a familiar friend and routine. With some accommodations to help them through the transition, dogs can adapt and continue living happily within their families.
Do dogs understand when a baby leaves?
Experts believe dogs probably don’t attach the same meaning to babies moving out as humans do. But dogs do understand the emotional cues from their owners and changes in their daily routines. When a beloved baby suddenly stops living in the home, dogs notice.
Signs your dog may miss the baby include:
- Searching or waiting in areas the baby spent time
- Less excitement when you come home
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Increased clinginess
- Increased anxious behaviors
These behaviors suggest your dog is feeling the loss of the baby in some way. While difficult for dog owners to witness, it can help to understand dogs grieve changes in their environment and companions. With time and management, dogs can adapt.
Tips for helping your dog through the transition
You can help your dog better adjust when a baby leaves by:
- Keeping routines consistent. Try to feed, walk, and interact with your dog at their normal times.
- Spending quality time together. Schedule one-on-one playtime and treats.
- Using comforting smells. Leave out the baby’s unused blankets or clothes.
- Using pheromone sprays. These synthetic dog appeasing pheromones promote relaxation.
- Asking others to visit. If possible, have friends with babies come to see your dog.
- Visiting the baby. Bring your dog for occasional visits if parents allow.
As your dog adjusts to the new family dynamic, their distress should gradually ease. But if concerning behaviors persist or worsen, consult your veterinarian.
Do dogs remember babies as they grow up?
Research shows dogs can remember previous owners, even years after separation. So it’s very likely dogs also remember babies they formed close bonds with. Anecdotal reports from owners indicate dogs do seem to recognize “their” babies after long absences.
When babies grow up and come back to visit years later, dogs may react by:
- Initial hesitation, followed by excitement
- Jumping up, licking, and nudging
- Presentation of toys
- Following them closely around the house
These behaviors suggest the dog remembers the baby but needs a little time to adjust to their changed appearance and scent.
Should you get a new puppy after a baby leaves?
Some parents consider getting a new puppy to distract the dog and fill the void after a baby leaves. While the playfulness of a puppy might perk up a lonely dog at first, it’s not a substitute for a beloved family member.
Adding a new puppy on top of another major life change can make things more difficult for you and your senior dog. Puppies require intensive time and training. And they’ll eventually grow up and change your household dynamics once again.
Rather than immediately getting another dog, focus on supporting your senior dog through this transition. When the time feels right and your lifestyle can support it, you can reconsider adding a new dog.
How long do dogs grieve the loss of a baby?
There’s no set timeline for how long your dog may show signs of missing your baby. Grieving looks different for each dog based on factors like:
- Temperament
- Attachment to the baby
- Quality of care from owners
- Household changes
With attentive care focused on your dog’s well-being, most dogs will adjust within a few weeks to months. Some may continue exhibiting milder symptoms of loss on and off over the first year.
Signs your dog is on the path to acceptance include:
- Renewed interest in toys, food, and activities
- Initiating play and seeking affection
- Seeming relaxed and content
If in doubt about your dog’s emotional state, consult a certified dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist.
Is rehoming ever an option?
In rare cases, a dog may not adjust well despite an owner’s best efforts. Rehoming should only be considered when a dog exhibits severe separation anxiety over an extended time. This indicates they need a different environment.
Before rehoming your dog, be sure you have:
- Worked closely with your vet and a trainer
- Tried medication if recommended by your vet
- Made adjustments to help your dog for many months
If rehoming ultimately becomes the most responsible choice, select a home that understands your dog’s history and can provide consistency. Avoid shelters, which are very stressful for dogs.
With patience and support focused on their well-being, the vast majority of dogs can remain happy at home even after babies grow up and move on.
Conclusion
Dogs likely don’t comprehend the complexities of human babies moving out the same way people do. But they definitely notice the absence of a familiar companion. With attention to their needs and routine, plus time to adjust, most dogs can adapt to babies leaving. They may retain positive memories and even recognize “their” babies years later. While challenging, remembering your dog’s perspective and focusing on their quality of life will help your whole family manage this transition.