Putting Your Dog To Sleep - Saying Goodbye - Purina

When should you consider putting a dog down

How do you know when to put your dog to sleep? It’s the decision no one ever wants to make, but if your dog’s quality of life is suffering with no signs of getting better, you may find the kindest option is to put your dog to sleep. It’s a very hard choice; on the one hand you want to spend as long as possible with your dog, but on the other hand, you want to make the right decision for them and spare them suffering.

You will normally have a bit of time to think things through, and we always recommend you talk to family and friends and consult your vet as part of the process. Whilst you and your family will be able to tell if your dog is acting out of character or seems to be struggling with day-to-day life, your vet will have a good insight into how this will affect their quality of life. Consider the following:

• Mobility: look for signs of pain or discomfort when they move. Do they whimper or cry when you touch certain areas?
• Appetite: monitor their food and water intake closely.
• Breathing: listen for any laboured or rapid breathing.
• Comfort: check for itching, scratching, and any changes to their coat. Monitor sleeping patterns closely, too.
• Toileting Habits: observe any changes in urination or defecation patterns.
• Mental Capacity: assess their responsiveness and look for any signs of anxiety or confusion.
• Happiness: observe their overall demeanour and enjoyment of their usual activities.
• Response to Treatment: Monitor their progress and discuss any concerns with your vet.

If you see a significant decline in any of these areas, it's important to discuss your dog's condition with your vet. There may be treatment options available that could improve their quality of life and keep them happy and comfortable for longer that they can discuss with you, or they can give you realistic and objective advice on whether euthanasia is the kindest option.

Ultimately, the decision to put your dog to sleep will be yours but remember that sometimes the kindest and most responsible decision is to let them go, especially if carrying on will entail a life of continuous suffering for them.

Deciding to put your dog to sleep is hard for the whole family, especially children. If you can, try to sit down as a family and discuss the decision together, being honest about your reasons and what it will mean for everyone, including your beloved pet. Of course, it will be an upsetting conversation, and there may be tears, but try to focus on the decision of what’s best for your dog – after all, all you want to do is the right and kindest thing for your beloved canine companion.