Do Dogs Try to Hide in Their Last Days?

Although dogs don̵7;t grasp the concept of mortality the way we do, their instincts do make them behave differently when they are sick or approaching the end of their lives. Depending on your dog̵7;s health and age, he may try to hide as his time approaches. It̵7;s essential to note, however, that a dog hiding is not always a sign that he is dying.

  1. Reasons for Hiding Before Death

    • While your dog may not know he is dying, he does know that he doesn̵7;t feel right. He may be weak and in pain. In the wild, a weak dog is vulnerable to attack from other animals. So nature has programmed dogs with an instinct to conceal weakness. For this reason, some dogs seek out a hiding place when they are sick or dying. A dying dog may hide as a means of pain avoidance. He may be attempting to get away from the people who are petting and comforting him.

    Other Reasons for Hiding

    • An old dog that goes into hiding under the table, behind the couch or behind a cupboard may not be dying at all. Dogs hide out of fear and anxiety. Meanwhile, some dogs that appear to be hiding may not be hiding at all. The warmth from the washing machine, for example, may feel good to your dog, so he squeezes himself alongside and looks to us as if he̵7;s hiding from something.

    Caring for a Dying Dog

    • Commit to enhancing our dog̵7;s comfort and quality of life in the final stages of his life. If your veterinarian has advised you that the end is approaching, your concern should switch from treatment to care. Ensure that your dog has access to food, water and a comfortable bed. Avoid putting undue stress on the dog, for example by making him move around the house. Monitor his behavior and try to anticipate his needs. He may be incontinent, so help him into the yard or piddle spot when you think he needs to relieve himself. Keep a close eye on your dog, and discourage him from wandering around, especially on his own.

    When Is It Time?

    • Only the owner will know when a dog̵7;s time has come. Your veterinarian will advise you, of course, if he or she feels that euthanasia may be the kindest option. If your dog is hiding regularly as well as showing other symptoms of nearing the end of his life, such as confusion, lack of appetite, difficulty breathing and pain, it is possible that his quality of life is diminishing. Dogs often get into hiding places that they can̵7;t get out of, due to weakness and confusion. Many owners prefer to spare themselves and their pooch the anguish.