Dog Euthanasia – When to Say Goodbye?

26 February 2025 | D for Dog

One of the most difficult questions pet owners face when making end-of-life decisions for their beloved dogs is how do you know when it is time to say goodbye?

having your dog put to sleep and when is the right time for pet euthanasia

When to Euthanise a Dog?

The simple answer is that, deep down, you will just know. But I understand that this response can feel inadequate. That's why I want to take the time to discuss, in more detail, how to determine when the time is right to let your dog go.

The Euthanasia Decision

Having your dog put to sleep is an incredibly difficult and emotional decision. However, I am always grateful that we have this option. Our beloved pets do not have to suffer or endure unnecessary pain and distress at the end of their lives. When the time comes, we can give them a good death. Euthanising a pet gives them a peaceful and dignified passing.

Quality of Life for Dogs

When considering dog euthanasia, a dog quality of life assessment is central to the decision-making process. In essence, you need to assess how happy your dog is, how well they are coping, and whether the good days still outweigh the bad.

I strongly believe that every pet owner senses when the balance shifts from life being enjoyable to life no longer being worth living. Is your ill or senior dog still mostly happy? Are they eating and drinking relatively normally? Do they still engage with people and their surroundings?

Asking yourself these questions can help provide clarity. You know your dog better than anyone and you will instinctively know in your heart if their life is still worth living for them. But here is a helpful list of key considerations for quality of life you might like to consider:

Physical Health & Comfort:

Can your dog move around comfortably?
Are they eating and drinking normally?
Is their breathing unlaboured, without excessive panting or coughing?
Is any pain or discomfort still being adequately managed?
Can they rest and sleep safely and comfortably?
Are they able to be kept clean and hygienic?
Do they still engage in age-appropriate activities?
Can they eat, move, and relieve themselves with minimal distress?

Mental & Emotional Well-being:

Does your dog still engage with people, toys, and their surroundings?
Do they seem happy - wagging their tail, showing relaxed body language, and interacting normally?
Are they generally relaxed and not excessively anxious, fearful, or withdrawn?
Are there still more good days than bad?

These considerations are not exhaustive, but if you find yourself answering "no" to many of these questions, your dog's quality of life may be diminishing and knowing when to put a dog down is a kindness.

assessing dog quality of life

A wonderful resource, Lap of Love, offers an online Dog Quality of Life Assessment that provides additional guidance on evaluating your dog's well-being. However, remember that these tools should support your decision-making, not dictate it.

Consult Your Veterinarian

It may seem obvious, but asking your vet for their opinion can provide valuable insight. While no vet would euthanise a pet unless they felt it was the right decision, don’t be afraid to ask: "What would you do if this were your dog?"

I have asked this question before and always valued the response. A vet familiar with your dog's condition can help assess their likely length and quality of life. I have received both "It's time to let them go" and "They still seem to be enjoying life, so let's continue monitoring." responses to end of life decisions for two of my dogs. Either way, your vet's insight can really help, even if it is just to confirm what you realise you already know.

I Won't Be Able to Cope

Actually, the chances are you will. It is amazing what we can do for the ones we love.

However, the euthanasia decision isn't just about your dog, it is also about your mental well-being. If your pet has a life-limiting condition and it is only a matter of time, it can be incredibly stressful to watch their decline. It is okay to consider your emotional capacity to cope.

That said, you might surprise yourself. A few years ago, one of my beloved dogs was diagnosed with terminal cancer and given only a month or two to live. I asked my vet what she would do, and she agreed that since he was still enjoying life, we should wait. I was terrified of the long goodbye, but in the end, we made precious memories in those final weeks. I never knew I had the strength until I tried.

At the same time, don't feel guilty if the best choice is a peaceful passing sooner rather than later. There are no right or wrong answers and every situation is different.

Your Well-being Matters Too

Making a life-or-death decision for a beloved pet is emotionally draining. But so is caring for a sick or dying pet. Think not only about their quality of life but also what your quality of life be like during that time.

dog euthanasia and when is the best time to put your dog to sleep

Quality vs. Quantity of Life

The saying "quality over quantity" is especially true when making dog euthanasia decisions. Helping your sick or senior dog achieve a comfortable and happy life is not the same as prolonging suffering. With medical advancements, it is easy to get caught up in trying to extend life at all costs. But sometimes, the best thing we can do is let go with love.

Was It Too Soon or Too Late?

It is common to second-guess yourself after euthanasia. Many pet owners worry: Did I let them go too soon? Did I try hard enough? Did I let them down?

Please know that you did exactly what needed to be done, when it needed to be done. Your pet would be grateful for the love and strength you showed.

Be kind to yourself and know that you made your decision with love and that can never be wrong.

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