Can dogs eat dead owners? What does science and evidence say?

Throughout the years, there have been instances of dogs eating their deceased owners, sparking curiosity and concern among pet owners. Research and studies shed light on this peculiar behavior exhibited by some dogs when faced with the absence of their human companions.

Studies have shown that in cases where dogs have consumed human remains, they typically target the face and throat first, followed by breaking ribs and chewing bones. Hunger often plays a significant role in driving this behavior, with some dogs not hesitating to resort to such drastic measures even if food is readily available to them.

A review conducted in 2015 examined 63 documented cases of dogs consuming their deceased owners, revealing that in a quarter of the instances, the partially eaten body was discovered within less than a day. Surprisingly, some of these dogs had access to untouched food, indicating that factors beyond mere hunger may influence their actions.

It is suggested that in situations where a dog's owner passes away suddenly or violently, the dog may become distressed and seek comfort by licking the owner's face. This act of licking, born out of concern and anxiety, can quickly escalate into feeding behavior.

Drawing on the evolutionary link between dogs and wolves, experts posit that in the absence of a readily available food source, dogs may revert to their primal instincts and consume nearby flesh out of necessity. Forensic anthropologist Carolyn Rando emphasizes that pet owners should acknowledge the possibility of their animals consuming them postmortem, considering it a natural aspect of the animal's survival instincts.

Rando further speculates that an individual dog's behavior may be a more significant determining factor in the likelihood of them resorting to cannibalistic behavior, rather than their breed. Dogs exhibiting signs of insecurity, fearfulness, or separation anxiety may be more prone to becoming agitated and resorting to feeding on their deceased owner.

For those concerned about the potential of their pets consuming them in the event of their passing, Rando advises having a support system in place to regularly check on both the individual and their animals. The common denominator in such cases seems to be prolonged isolation and lack of oversight, highlighting the importance of maintaining regular contact and monitoring when living alone with pets.

In conclusion, while the notion of a beloved pet consuming its owner may seem unsettling, understanding the underlying motivations and potential triggers can help pet owners take proactive steps to mitigate such behavior. By fostering a supportive environment and being attentive to their pet's emotional needs, individuals can promote a harmonious and safe coexistence with their four-legged companions.