Is It Normal for a Dog to Die with Eyes Open and Tongue Out? Understanding Post-Mortem Signs

It's understandably distressing to witness your dog pass away, and seeing them with their eyes open and tongue out can be particularly unsettling. However, this is a normal post-mortem phenomenon. Along with open eyes and a protruding tongue, you might also observe incontinence and body stiffness. These occurrences are due to the cessation of nerve signals after death, leading to muscle relaxation and a loss of control. It's a natural part of the dying process, and while difficult, it is not something for pet owners to excessively worry about.

The open eyes and extended tongue occur because the nerve signals that control muscle function are no longer present. The muscles controlling the eyelids and tongue lose their tension and relax. Similarly, the muscles controlling the bladder and anus will also relax, which is why many dogs will experience incontinence after passing away. If your dog has passed, it's advisable to respectfully transport them to a pet cremation or burial service for proper and respectful disposal.

Understanding Post-Mortem Signs in Dogs

It is vital for pet owners to understand what to expect in the moments and hours following a pet’s death. Here are some common signs you may observe:

Open Eyes

Many dogs pass away with their eyes open. While it might appear as if they are "staring", this is simply because the muscles surrounding the eyes lose their tension and relax. The eyelids are no longer actively closing, and it's a natural occurrence, not a sign of distress or discomfort.

Protruding Tongue

Similar to open eyes, a protruding tongue is also a result of muscle relaxation. Without nerve signals controlling muscle closure, the tongue simply relaxes and extends out of the mouth. This is not a sign that they were uncomfortable; it's simply a result of the body’s natural processes post-death.

Incontinence

After death, the heart stops, and blood circulation ceases. The brain loses blood supply, affecting the central control of bowel and bladder functions. This leads to incontinence, where your dog may release urine and feces. This is a very common, albeit distressing, occurrence.

Body Stiffness (Rigor Mortis)

Within 30 minutes to an hour after death, the dog’s body will begin to stiffen. This is due to oxygen deprivation within the cells and tissues, causing the blood to coagulate and muscles to contract. Rigor mortis is a natural process. It is generally recommended to prepare any clothing or toys that you want to include with your dog before the stiffness sets in and contact a pet loss service soon after death.Learn more:Pet Grooming