What things are the deciding factors taken into consideration on when to put your dog to sleep?  My Golden Retriever Gus is almost 11 yrs old.  He was diagnosed with cancer the beginning of June.  Since that time it has been very challenging to get him to eat.  He will start eating something and then just stop.  Have tried many different foods, put him on anti nausea meds and appetite stimulants.  The only thing now that he will eat is Chicken Jerky.  Obviously he has lost a ton of weight.  Isn't very active.  But he will follow me around sometimes, still wag his tail and be his normal attendtion whore self.  Most of the time he just lays around and sleeps. I am now needing to lift him in bed and it is a son of a gun to get him up in the morning.   Gus was my brother's dog who became mine when Jeff passed 6 years ago.  He means to world to me and I have strong sentimental attachment to him.

I want to do right by Gus.  I am not wanting to do too early and also not wait until to late.  Also know that there is no perfect time to say good bye.   How do you make that decision.  Hs is an older dog so I know he would be slowing down.  I have always told others in this situation that you want to say Good bye while they still have their dignity.  But when yourself is in this position it is soo hard to decide.   I don't know what to do or how make this decision. 

Please help give me guidance and clarity on how to decide.

Thanks! 

 I can tell you I've been through this most heartbreaking time too many times.When they stop eating,its over.The cancer just gets worse,and its time.As much as I love my dogs,I give them peace before the suffering gets worse.One thing for sure,its NOT gonna get better,only worse.May you find peace in your heart,and strength to set him free from this horrible disease.HUGS AND PRAYERS TO YOU

Someone shared this article with me when I was in your same position and I found it very helpful putting things into perspective. I hope it helps. 

https://melnewton.com/2019/the-good-death/?fbclid=IwAR1vqr2CAz3aqLt6i8ZRENPQoLEnJR5AVby8NUwE0Hn-iuEwNHqS-MGTk_k

I put my little Cocker Spaniel down in December.  It was cancer and I had put him through surgery thinking he would have months left after that but it just wasn't so.  It was just a matter of maybe four-five weeks and the tumor grew back with a vengeance.  I let him live his days out but it was tough for him and I regret not doing it sooner.  He kept eating but the quality of life only looked "okay" because he was such a good little guy.

I LOVE that article,thank you for sharing!

If you're keeping them alive for yourself, then I'd say it's probably time. 

I put my beloved lab down at 10 yrs old because he had a mystery illness.  He was puking uncontrollably and couldn't even hold down water.  Vet said we could try exploratory surgery, but xrays showed no obstructions.  It wasn't worth it to me to put a 10 yo dog through a surgery that maybe wouldn't have done anything anyways.  It was better for me to not have him suffer than put him through suffering for my own heart break. 

I have unfortuly had to go down this road with my 15yr old labm, Buggy. He was the best dog. Makes me cry thinking about him. Anyways, I am sorry you have to go through with this part. Its a tricky situation. One thing that a vet told me was pick three things they love to do. When they can't do three then its time because the quality of life is not as good as it once was.

Buggy's three favorite things were going to feed the horses, playing fetch, and riding in the truck. It's never easy. I hope you find clarity and peace in this stage of life. 

I'm in the same place you are. I have an almost 12 year old Great Dane who has started going downhill. I know the time is coming but I'm struggling with knowing the right time ??

What great advice from your vet! 

I know the times I have been called to PTS my pets, my vet has always assured me it was time.  That is one of the best comforts you can get is them telling you, you made the right decision. 

Thank you everyone for helping me make the right decision for Gus.  Gus went to the Rainbow Bridge to see my brother Jeff yesterday afternoon.  It was one of the hardest decisions of my life; but now know it was what was best for him.  He and I spent an hour on the couch snuggling before leaving.  The car ride to the vet he ate cookies, chips and his loved Jerky.  He had to go visit everyone he seen at the vet's office.  And when the time came for the shot he passed away with his head in my lap.  Very peaceful. 

I would give anything for one more of his sloppy kisses.  I miss this big guy soo much but know he is pain free and enjoying his time wallering in tall grass, chasing frisbees and getting love from Jeff. 

Thanks again all.  Without your help and guidance I couldn't have done it yesterday. 

I'm sorry for your loss,and your broken heart,its so hard to let them go,find peace in knowing you gave him his freedom and peace.Hugs to you.

Me too.............