The British royal family has a long-standing tradition of cherishing pets, with various members developing deep bonds with their animals over the centuries. From beloved dogs to cherished horses, these animals often play an integral role in the lives of royals, encapsulating companionship amid their public duties.
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Queen Elizabeth II, the late monarch, was particularly renowned for her affection towards corgis. Her fondness for the breed began when she received a Pembroke Welsh corgi named Susan at the tender age of 18. Susan was by her side through significant life events, including her marriage to Prince Philip and her ascension to the throne in 1952. The queen once expressed her heartfelt gratitude to her veterinarian, Harold Swann, following Susan’s passing, highlighting the emotional bond formed over nearly two decades. Elizabeth’s love for corgis became apparent as she eventually owned more than 30 of them, as well as several dachshund-corgi mixes affectionately known as “dorgis.”
Queen Elizabeth’s corgis were not just pets; they became royal icons in their own right. Her first dog, Dookie, given to her by her father in 1933, was quickly followed by another corgi, Jane. The two dogs were her loyal companions during World War II and throughout her life. In 2012, three of her corgis even made a cameo in a short film for the opening ceremony of the London Olympics, showcasing their royal celebrity.
The connection between the British royal family and their pets extends beyond Queen Elizabeth. Queen Victoria also had a well-known affection for animals, having grown up with a Cavalier King Charles spaniel named Dash, whose memory she treasured. After Dash’s death in 1840, the queen ensured he was buried on the grounds of Windsor Castle, with a heartfelt epitaph celebrating his loyal nature.
King Charles II, who reigned in the 1600s, notably had a strong affection for Cavalier King Charles spaniels, a breed that eventually carried his name. His relationship with the dogs led him to issue a royal decree permitting them in public spaces, including Parliament, highlighting the bond shared between the king and his canine companions.
In more recent times, the Prince and Princess of Wales have also embraced the tradition of dog ownership. They welcomed an English cocker spaniel named Lupo in 2011, a gift that soon became an integral part of their lives. Lupo, adored by the family, passed away in 2020, prompting a heartfelt tribute from the couple. Following his passing, the family adopted another cocker spaniel named Orla, who has joined them in public events. Otto, Orla’s son, joined the household in 2025, further solidifying the family’s love for pets.
Numerous members of the royal family have also shown a fondness for equestrian pursuits. Queen Elizabeth was an avid horse rider and breeder; one of her standout equine companions was a Fell pony named Carlton Lima Emma, affectionately known as “Emma.” Their bond lasted through years of competition and recreation, with Emma’s presence at the queen’s funeral touching many hearts.
Similarly, Zara Tindall, daughter of Princess Anne and granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth, represents the royal family’s commitment to horse riding. Tindall achieved notable success in various equestrian championships with her horse Toytown, demonstrating that the love for animals runs deep in the family.
The bond between royals and their pets is not limited to dogs and horses. The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, adopted a beagle named Guy before her marriage to Prince Harry. Guy was a source of comfort through significant life changes, including her transition to royal life. Markle’s love for her pets subsequently extended to two other dogs, Pula and Mia, cementing the idea that animals hold a special place in the hearts of royal family members.
King Edward VII, who ruled between 1901 and 1910, had a close bond with a wire-haired fox terrier named Caesar, who was not only a companion but a loyal presence in public life. After Edward’s passing, Caesar’s unwavering loyalty was evident as he was photographed walking in the funeral procession, a testament to the enduring relationships pets can create.
Currently, King Charles III and Queen Camilla are proud owners of Jack Russell terriers Beth and Bluebell, both of whom were adopted from the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. The royals’ commitment to animal welfare and adoption reflects a broader trend among the family to cherish and advocate for the welfare of pets.
The long and heartfelt history shared between the British royal family and their pets stands as a testament to the unique bonds such animals can create. Whether through dogs, horses, or other pets, these connections serve as a reminder of the warmth and loyalty that animals can bring into the lives of even the most public figures.