Pet Memorial Stones: Granite Markers for Dogs, Cats and Other Pets

Losing a pet is losing a family member, and a small granite memorial gives that loss a lasting place. Pet memorials are simpler to plan than human headstones, but a few decisions still matter: size, setting, wording and where the stone will go.

Types of pet memorials

• Flat garden markers — set into a lawn or flowerbed; the most popular choice.
• Raised or bevel markers — slightly sloped tops that stay visible in long grass.
• Small upright stones — for pet cemeteries or larger garden spaces.
• Heart shapes and natural rock stones — softer, decorative styles for gardens.

Typical sizes

Granite is heavy, so even small markers stay put without a foundation in most garden settings.

What to engrave

• The pet's name — often the largest line.
• Dates, or simply the year span.
• A short phrase: "Forever our good boy", "Loyal companion", "Always by our side".
• A symbol — a heart, star or paw print — or a laser-etched photo on black granite.

Our epitaph ideas and laser-etched portrait guide have more inspiration.

Where can you place a pet memorial?

• At home: usually the simplest option for a marker. Rules on burying pets at home vary by municipality, so check local bylaws before a burial.
• Pet cemeteries: have their own size and material rules, like any cemetery.
• Human cemeteries: most do not allow pet burials or pet markers, though a few have dedicated sections.

Key Takeaways

• Flat garden markers around 6 × 12 to 12 × 18 inches are the most common pet memorials.
• Keep the wording short: name, dates and one meaningful line.
• Black granite is ideal for laser-etched pet photos.
• Check local bylaws or pet-cemetery rules before burial or placement.

Next Step

Design a small marker in the Design Studio or contact us for pet memorial sizes.