This is a complicated question, as the answer really depends on the temperament of your daughter. Is she the kind of child who takes things very seriously? Is she very sensitive, or a hardy kid who lets things roll off her back?

In both cases, it would be very good if you can let your daughter say good-bye to your dog. In no way should you use the term "put to sleep." A child could easily imagine that this could happen to her when she goes to sleep at night. You can tell your child that your dog is very old and may not be alive much longer. Then she can say good-bye. The time to tell your daughter that your dog died is after you take him to the vet to be put to sleep.

You should explain that in dog years, he was very old, that you will miss him too, and that you and Daddy aren't going to die. That's what kids worry about at this age!

Your child may need extra explanations or extra comforting if she is very sensitive. You may want to make a picture of your child with the dog. More than likely, it will just be enough to keep talking whenever she brings it up. Your daughter needs to know that it is okay to grieve just as you are grieving.