Outside the public eye of royal events and engagements, the lives of Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Prince and Princess of Wales, remain largely private. The couple is known for their careful consideration of what personal moments they share with the public, including photos and videos of their children. While royal watchers eagerly anticipate new images on the birthdays of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, these glimpses into their family life are rare.
One element of their private life that has captured public interest is their beloved black spaniel, Orla. Orla gained attention when she appeared alongside Princess Charlotte in her seventh birthday portraits and again with her puppies in a photo celebrating Prince William’s birthday. This marked the first time the Waleses publicly confirmed the name of their canine companion, sparking speculation about a new addition to their household.
The Royal Family’s Canine Companions
Reports suggest that Orla recently gave birth to four puppies, and according to royal expert Rebecca English from the Daily Mail, the future King and Queen were keen to breed Orla partly to welcome a new puppy into their family. English noted, “It’s one of the reasons, I am told, that she and Prince William have decided to breed from their adored spaniel, Orla. Not only has it been something fun for the children to look forward to, but I am told they are planning to keep one of the pups.”
In a photo taken by Kate and shared for Prince William’s birthday, two brown and one black cocker spaniel can be seen playfully scampering around him in the garden. The names of the puppies remain unknown, but Prince George, Charlotte, and Louis may have some say in choosing a name, recalling how their previous dog, Lupo, played a part in selecting George’s name.
A Legacy of Love and Loyalty
Lupo, the couple’s previous dog, was a cherished member of the family until his passing shortly after Orla’s arrival. Lupo was bred from Luna, the sister of James Middleton’s late spaniel Ella, ensuring that Orla carries on the family’s canine lineage. Given the Wales family’s love for outdoor adventures, the new puppy will likely enjoy many picturesque walks in the countryside.
The Prince and Princess of Wales have often shared their affection for animals. Earlier this year, they marked National Pet Day with a tribute to the “animals who bring so much joy, companionship, and love to our lives.” If the reports are accurate, their household will soon be filled with even more joy, companionship, and love—albeit with a little less space on their bed.
Royal Traditions and Modern Family Life
During a visit to Duchy College Stoke Climsland, Prince William reportedly told Louise Harland that Orla sleeps on the bed with him and Kate, highlighting the couple’s modern approach to royal family life. This anecdote reflects a blend of tradition and contemporary family dynamics, as the royal couple balances their public duties with personal moments of joy.
As the world awaits confirmation of the new addition to the royal household, the story of Orla and her puppies offers a heartwarming glimpse into the lives of the Prince and Princess of Wales. Their decision to potentially keep one of Orla’s puppies underscores the importance of family, both human and canine, in their lives.
With the anticipation of a new puppy joining the family, the Wales household is poised to continue its legacy of love and loyalty, as they navigate the responsibilities of royal life with warmth and affection.
