Derek Hough Mourns Death of His Dog Romie After 14 Years Together: ‘There’s an Ache That Feels Unbearable’

Derek Hough, renowned for his role as a judge on “Dancing with the Stars,” is grieving the loss of his treasured dog, Romie, who passed away after 14 years together. The 41-year-old dancer took to Instagram over the weekend to share his sorrowful news, posting a touching video of Romie enjoying the outdoors alongside a series of photographs that captured their time together.

In his emotional tribute, Hough reflected on the profound bond formed between him and his canine companion. “Romie came into my life when I was just trying to figure life out, it was just me and him,” he shared. For Derek, Romie served as a constant presence through the ups and downs of life, offering love and companionship during challenging times.

The timing of Romie’s passing was poignant, as he managed to hold on long enough to meet Hough’s newborn daughter, Everley Capri, born in December 2025. Derek remarked in his tribute that Romie had witnessed his journey from a young adult learning about love and commitment to becoming a father. “He watched me grow up, fall in love, become a husband,” Hough noted, expressing his gratitude for Romie’s unwavering support throughout his life.

Adjusting to life without Romie has proven to be a difficult experience for Hough. He described the surreal feeling of waking up without his loyal companion by his side, expressing a sense of loss and longing. “I keep looking at that spot where he’d usually come around the bushes, waiting, hoping,” he wrote, articulating the void left by Romie’s absence.

Hough’s heartfelt message concluded with a tribute to Romie’s lasting impact on his life. “Thank you, my boy, for choosing us, for carrying me, for giving me so much,” he concluded. The emotional weight of his words encapsulated both the anguish of loss and the joy of a love that transcended their years together. “There’s an ache that feels unbearable. But it’s also proof that love lived here fully. And you always will.”

Romie was adopted by Derek in 2012 from a rescue organisation in Los Angeles, a transition that began when Hough volunteered to walk dogs at the shelter. What was initially meant to be an overnight stay turned into a permanent home for the affectionate dog. Recalling their first moment together, Derek recognised when Romie climbed onto the couch and nestled in his lap, ultimately sealing their bond.

In a previous interview, Hough revealed the depths of his attachment to Romie and the challenges he faced as his pet aged. He expressed appreciation for the love Romie had given him throughout their time together, stating, “I just thank him so much for all the love he’s given me.”

Derek has also been vocal about the emotional turmoil associated with losing a pet, having previously supported his sister Julianne Hough during her own heart-wrenching experiences following the deaths of her two dogs in 2019. He remarked, “I think anybody who really has had a pet that they’ve loved fully understands that,” highlighting the bond that exists between owners and their pets.

As Derek Hough commemorates Romie’s life, he recalls the journey they shared together, reflecting on the special moments and the lessons learned over the years. The tenderness of Hough’s tribute stands as a reminder of the powerful connection between humans and their animal companions, a bond that, once forged, remains deeply embedded in the heart.