As if 2020 wasn't already hard enough, Kate Middleton and Prince William recently let fans know that their beloved dog Lupo had died at 9 years old. "Very sadly last weekend our dear dog, Lupo, passed away. He has been at the heart of our family for the past nine years, and we will miss him so much," the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge wrote on Instagram on November 22.
The pup was a well-known member of the Cambridge family, having been given to the royal couple as a wedding gift from Kate's brother James. He breeds English cocker spaniels and chose the sweet black dog for his sister's big day.
Since then, Lupo's remained an important member of Will and Kate's family. He often showed up in official portraits and on walks with the royals. They always did their best to make him a prominent part of their family, even after they started having children. And Lupo created an especially strong bond with Prince George.
To commemorate Lupo, here are his 15 sweetest photos.
When There Were Three
Not long after William and Kate got married, these pics were snapped of them enjoying a wintry beach day with their new puppy. This was before they had any kids, which meant that they still had the time to just take a leisurely stroll as newlyweds. They look so happy together as a little family of three, including Lupo.
Dancing With Mom
Before she had three kids to chase around at polo matches, the duchess would often bring Lupo with her to sports outings. It was probably easier for her to look after a puppy when not distracted by children. We love this 2012 photo of Kate holding Lupo's paws and bending down to greet him. It almost looks like they're dancing together.
Playtime With Prince Harry
After his own polo match, Prince Harry came over to give a hello to Lupo. Look at the smile on Harry's face. He looks so happy! Also Lupo just had no idea that everyone he hung out with was royal and totally famous. He was probably just enjoying playing with his fun friend Harry.
Puppy Kisses
William got plenty of face time with Lupo during his own polo match as well. At one point he scooped the dog up to give him a big smooch. Honestly, this is 95% more affectionate than we've seen William be in public with Kate. Something about dogs just helps everyone let their guard down.
Joining In
It's really hard to pick a favorite Lupo photo of all time, but this one comes close. Kate and Will were taking a group photo at a polo match, so they put their arms around each other. Then Lupo jumped up to do the same thing. Clearly, he didn't want to be left out. It's really too precious to handle.
Good With Kids
Long before Kate was pregnant with Prince George, she was already introducing Lupo to little kids so he could get accustomed. Here, he was pretend-walked by little Savannah Phillips — the Queen's great-granddaughter. It's so sweet how Kate is also holding the leash, just in case. She was born to be a mom.
Posing With Baby George
When George was born, Kate and Will released this family photo to the public. It features a happy Lupo front and center — still very much a part of the Cambridges' life. Just because they had a baby didn't mean anything needed to change for this royal pet.
Out for a Stroll
Paparazzi snapped this pic of Kate playing with Lupo in the park. She was probably annoyed that the photographers came upon her in the moment, but how nice that she has this picture now. She's got his leash and ball in her hand, but he seems preoccupied with an empty chips bag. Dogs, you get them the nicest toys and they still want to play with trash.
Fashion Pup
When the duchess had her big Vogue photo shoot in 2016, she made sure to include her pup in the pics. Kate wore super trendy overalls (bring them back!) while she ruffled her fingers through Lupo's shiny fur. This is another sweet picture that Kate is sure to be glad she has.
Family Portrait
The bond that little George had with Lupo was on full display in this family photo. The prince and his pooch are staring so intensely into each other's eyes, it's like Will and Kate aren't even there. Judging from this and future pics of George and Lupo, we bet he's taking the death pretty hard. Poor thing!
Treat Time
This photo caused quite a controversy, with some people concerned that George was going to actually feed the dog ice cream. We'd prefer to look at it as a sweet moment between a young boy and his dog. This photo was shared to commemorate George's third birthday, and Lupo was again the star.
Getting Messy
James Middleton is the one who bred Lupo and gave him to Will and Kate, so he was just as sad about Lupo's death. James posted this tribute photo of the pooch, and it was a never-before-seen image of Lupo. He looks like he had a great day playing in the mud before the snap was taken.
Beach Day
Lupo was Carole Middleton's grand-dog just like George is her grandson, so Kate's mom had fun taking them both to the beach one day when George was little. These memories will be so dear to George as he grows up and remembers digging in the sand with his beloved pup.
Playing Around
Although most photos we have of Lupo feature his bond with George, in this picture we get to see the dog hanging out with Princess Charlotte, too. The whole family was just having fun in their yard, and Lupo was his usual energetic self, running all over the place. What a happy family the Cambridges are.
So Regal
This is the photo that Will and Kate chose to share the bad news about Lupo's passing. "Very sadly last weekend our dear dog, Lupo, passed away. He has been at the heart of our family for the past nine years and we will miss him so much," the couple wrote. We'll miss him so much, too. What a regal dog.
