For many people, dogs and cats are more than pets — they’re part of the family. Dogs become mom’s and dad’s companion, a child’s best friend, and the emotional support of all. Losing this precious family member can, at times, be just as difficult as losing a human family member.
Jump ahead to these sections:
- Ways to Say ‘’Sorry for the Loss of Your Dog’ in a Card
- Ways to Say ‘’Sorry for the Loss of Your Dog’ in a Text of DM
- Ways to Say ‘Sorry for the Loss of Your Dog’ Face-to-Face
When sharing your sorrow for someone’s loss, it’s important that you communicate in a way that doesn’t sound trite or cliché. We know this is sometimes easier said than done, so here are 25 ways to communicate your heartfelt empathy and sympathy when a friend or relative has lost their beloved furry family member.
Ways to Say ‘Sorry for the Loss of Your Dog’ in a Card
When you hear that someone’s pet has died, sending a card is always appropriate. Even if it’s been a while since you’ve talked with the person, they’ll be touched by your thoughtfulness and encouraged to know that people care.
Writing a card and finding words to communicate sympathy can be difficult. Thankfully, there are many different ways to say sorry for your loss without sounding cliche. Choose one of the messages below or mix and match to make your own. No matter what you choose, your friend or loved one will know that it came from your heart.
1. “I’m so sorry to hear about [pet’s name’s] passing. I know you’ll miss him dearly. They will be missed by our family, too.”
Use this message if you and your family got to know your friend’s dog and will genuinely miss seeing them when you visit your friend.
2. “Thank you for sharing your dog’s beautiful life with us all. We’ll miss getting to see them.”
Use a message like this if the dog in question was a service dog brought to a nursing home, hospital, or school.
3. “I just wanted to let you know that I’m thinking about you and [pet’s name]. I know you loved them very much.”
This message is perfect to send for someone you aren’t particularly close to such as a distant friend or coworker.
4. “[Pet’s name] was such a beautiful, caring, sweetheart dog. If we ever get a dog someday, we want them to be just like yours. Remembering [pet’s name].”
Mentioning the best qualities of your friend’s dog can be especially meaningful when sending a condolence message. Switch out the descriptions in this example for words that apply specifically to the dog you’re thinking of.
5. “I know you loved [pet’s name] dearly and felt lucky to have them. They were just as lucky to have you.”
Tell your friend how much their dog enjoyed life with them. While it doesn’t bring their dog back, it can help to remember that their dog had a good life.
6. “My family and I are praying for you and yours during this difficult time. I’m so sorry to hear about [pet’s name]. They were such a wonderful dog and will be missed by all.”
If your family was particularly close to the family that lost their dog and knew the dog well, use a message like this.
7. “I know how much like a family member [pet’s name] was to you. If you need a shoulder to cry on or someone to talk to, I’m here for you.”
Letting your friend or loved one know that you’re there for them can go a long way when they’re dealing with the grief of losing their furry friend.
8. “I know you miss [pet’s name]. [Name] was a wonderful dog and I’m so glad I got to meet them. Thinking of you during this time.”
Use a message like this if you only briefly met their dog. If you knew the dog well, change this slightly by saying, “I’m so glad I got to know him.” Tailor it to your level of familiarity with their pet.
9. “[Pet’s name] was such a beautiful dog. I’m sure they treasured their time with you just as much as you treasured your time with them.”
Dogs love their owners unconditionally. Remind your friend how much their dog treasured the time they had together.
Ways to Say ‘’Sorry for the Loss of Your Dog’ in a Text of DM
Direct messages are ideal when you want to send a message right away. If you’re uncertain of what to say when someone loses a pet and you’re trying to send a message, consider one of these options.
10. “I just heard about [pet’s name’s] passing. I’m so sorry.”
Use this message if you’re in a hurry but still want to touch base and let someone know you’re thinking of them. If you’re writing to someone you know well, this should be followed up with a card or longer message later.
11. “It seems like we never have enough time with the pets we love. I know you cherished every minute.”
Sometimes sharing a universal truth such as this can provide just the point of connection and encouragement someone needs so they know they’re not alone in their sorrow.
12. “[Pet’s name] was such a special dog. They will be missed by all of us.”
Use this message if messaging on behalf of friends, family, or coworkers who all knew the dog.
13. “I know you’re missing [pet’s name]. They may not be with you in presence, but their spirit never leaves.”
This message is appropriate for those you know who believe that an animal’s spirit lives on even when they are no longer present bodily.
14. “I cried buckets when I heard about [pet’s name]. They were so sweet.”
If you experienced an emotional reaction to the passing of your friend’s dog, it’s okay to let them know. Only use a message like this if you know your friend will understand that you’re sharing their heartache.
15. “I’m hurting with you over the loss of [pet’s name]. Your dog was loved by everyone they met.”
If you or your friend are not overly emotional in the way you communicate, a message like this is appropriate to share that you have been touched by the passing of their dog.
16. “It’s never easy when our pets leave us. I’m so sorry you’re going through this.”
This is a truth that every pet owner can acknowledge. Losing a pet is never easy. A message like this will help your friend or relative know that they’re not alone in their experience or pain.
17. “We remember [pet’s name] fondly from the time we visited you. I’m so sorry to hear about their passing.”
Use a message like this if you only met the pet once or twice. This is an appropriate message for someone who is a long distance away from you.
Ways to Say ‘Sorry for the Loss of Your Dog’ Face-to-Face
If you’re going to see a friend or relative who recently lost their pet, it’s a good idea to prepare what you’re going to say ahead of time. Whether you’re delivering a sympathy gift for the loss of a dog or you’re simply seeing them for coffee, be ready to communicate your sorrow over their loss when you see them.
18. “[Pet’s name] was so sweet. I loved getting to pet them when I came over. I sure will miss them.”
Mentioning your connection to your friend or relative’s dog is a way to share that you loved them, too.
19. “[Pet’s name] was such a gift. I miss them already and I know you do, too.”
This is a simple message that says a lot - you share in your friend’s sorrow. Only use this if you knew their dog well.
20. “I know [pet’s name] was like a family member. I’m so sorry to hear about their passing.”
As long as you know how a family feels about their dog, this message is appropriate.
21. “You gave [pet’s name] such a wonderful life. I know they enjoyed every minute with you.”
This message is especially meaningful for a friend who specializes in rescue dogs.
22. “My kids loved [pet’s name]. They wanted me to tell you they miss your sweet dog already.”
If your kids had a lot of interaction with your friend’s dog, share how they feel, as well.
23. “I know it’ll be strange without [pet’s name]. If you ever want to come over or need a listening ear, let me know.”
Open up your home, your time, and your life to someone who is hurting.
24. “[Pet’s name] was the most darling, big-hearted dog I’ve ever known. They were so small but gave out so much love.”
Change the descriptions out so you’re talking about your friend’s dog and point out specific things about them that you loved.
25. “Our family is here for you and your kids. If you want some puppy love, please come over any time and play with ours.”
Invite your friend to come over and spend time with you. If appropriate, consider giving them a pet loss book to help navigate the loss of their pet.
Acknowledging the Death of a Pet
It is never easy when a beloved pet dies. For some families, it’s just like losing a loved one, relative, or best friend. Reach out, share heartfelt words of encouragement and sympathy, and help your friend or loved one know that they aren’t alone.