In the world of dance and entertainment, the cast and crew of “Dancing with the Stars” (DWTS) are not only celebrated for their intricate choreography and performance skills; they are also known for their profound love for their pets. The 35th season of the popular television series has showcased not just extraordinary talent on the dance floor but also a delightful glimpse into the lives of its judges and professional dancers through their cherished animal companions.
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Among the judges this season is Carrie Ann Inaba, who shares her home with two dogs named Lola and Loki. A dedicated animal lover, Inaba has faced heartache recently with the loss of her third dog, Peanut, who passed away in January 2026. In a heartfelt tribute posted on social media, she expressed her love for Peanut and described their bond as an “honour of a lifetime.”
Derek Hough, another prominent judge of the show, also has a special connection with pets. With his wife, Hayley Erbert Hough, they welcome two cats—Paulo and Lily—and their dog, Luna. The couple’s hearts were heavy following the passing of their previous dog, Romie, in October 2026, at the age of 14. In his emotional farewell, Hough praised Romie for “choosing us” and highlighted the immense joy that their time together brought him.
The professional dancers of DWTS have also embraced companionship through their pets. Alan Bersten, who gained fame as a contestant on “So You Think You Can Dance,” adopted a dog named Jeff in October 2024. The pair have formed a close bond, sharing festive moments together, including celebrating Hanukkah in 2025 with Bersten and his girlfriend, fellow dancer Emma Slater.
Sasha Farber’s relationship with his dog Ruby is equally heartwarming. He first fostered Ruby in 2016 and eventually made her a permanent member of his family. According to Farber, Ruby has been a constant presence throughout numerous DWTS tours. He reflected on the transformative power of loving a rescue pet, noting, “All you’ve got to do is show a rescue pet a little bit of love. They are yours for life; they will do anything for you.”
Brandon Armstrong, another talented professional on the show, has a family dog named Teddy that brings joy to his home. In May 2026, Armstrong’s wife, Brylee, posted an adorable video on social media capturing their reunion after a four-month separation, playfully noting that Teddy seemed to favour her over the humans who raised her. This reflects the deep emotional connections these pet parents share with their furry companions.
Britt Stewart, another professional dancer, expanded her family by adopting a cat named Midna. The adoption occurred during a baby shower for fellow cast members, where Stewart excitedly introduced Midna into her life and shared her elation on social media, describing herself as being in “cat mom bliss.”
Witney Carson also welcomed a new family member in the form of a kitten named Midnight, adopted in August 2024. The arrival of Midnight was celebrated with a joyous announcement on Instagram alongside her young son, Leo, showcasing the couple’s newfound love for cats.
Rylee Arnold, a pro dancer, introduced her audience to her Bernedoodle named Maple in December 2025 through a lively TikTok video. The energy and excitement shown during Maple’s introduction reflect the growing trend among dance professionals of sharing their beloved pets online.
Lastly, Sharna Burgess has made her home a haven for three dogs, the latest addition being Birdie Blue, welcomed into the family in July 2026. Burgess and her fiancé, Brian Austin Green, approached this adoption carefully, motivated by their past experience of losing a dog. She explained their long wait for the ideal companion and noted how well Birdie Blue has integrated into their lives.
The pet-friendly atmosphere of DWTS not only highlights the personalities of its participants but also showcases the deep affection that these performers have for their animals. As they navigate the pressures of performances and competition, their pets provide a source of comfort, companionship, and joy that enriches their lives away from the spotlight. As Season 35 unfolds, the bond between these dancers and their beloved pets only adds to the heartwarming narrative of the show, reminding us of the joy and loyalty that pets bring into our lives.