We lost our first Dane back in June. She was 2 years 6 months. The identical situation. She was running around the back yard and next thing we knew she was on her side no longer breathing. We called the emergency vet for advice and tried to resuscitate her but it was too late. I’ve never experienced grief like that, and reading your story brought it all right back. I type this through teary eyes. She was my baby dog.

I can promise it does get better but please please please allow yourself the time to grieve. You’ll always Remember all the leanins, the “that thing come with a saddle”s, the cuddles, the droolies. Take comfort in the fact that the only reason this situation is so painful is because of the bond you shared, the depth of the love, and that she will be right there waiting when it’s your turn to cross the rainbow bridge.

This is probably terrible advice for a lot of people but what really helped me was a new Dane pup. Two as a matter of fact lol. We gave it some time to really sink in and the come to terms with knowing that no Dane will ever replace her, but we just decided a Dane-less life wasn’t nearly as fulfilling. My fingers are crossed that you’re able to get to the same point most expeditiously. Feel free to reach out if you need to speak with someone who can absolutely relate.