Throughout British history, the royal family has had a close bond with their pets. These beloved animals not only shared the palaces but also held a significant place in the hearts of their royal owners. Here are 21 of the most regal pets in British history.
1. Queen Elizabeth II’s Corgis
Queen Elizabeth II was perhaps the most famous royal pet lover, known for her lifelong devotion to her Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Her first Corgi, Dookie, was gifted to her in 1933, and she has since owned more than 30 Corgis.
2. Queen Victoria’s Spaniel, Dash
Dash, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, was Queen Victoria’s beloved companion. Dash was so cherished that after his death in 1840, he was buried at Windsor with an epitaph that read, “His attachment was without selfishness, His playfulness without malice, His fidelity without deceit.”
3. King Charles III’s Jack Russell Terriers, Bluebell and Beth
King Charles III is very fond of his Jack Russell Terriers, Bluebell and Beth, who he adopted from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. They often accompany him on many royal engagements.
4. King Edward VII’s Terrier, Caesar
Caesar, a wire fox terrier, was King Edward VII’s constant companion. Caesar was so important to the King that he walked in his master’s funeral procession in 1910, leading the late king’s favourite horse.
5. Queen Alexandra’s Japanese Chin, Punch
Queen Alexandra, the wife of King Edward VII, had a special fondness for Japanese Chins. Her favourite, Punch, was a constant presence at court and featured in many royal portraits.
6. Prince William and Kate Middleton’s Cocker Spaniel, Lupo
Lupo, the Cocker Spaniel owned by Prince William and Kate Middleton, was a beloved family pet who played a significant role in their household until his death in 2020.
7. Queen Elizabeth I’s Greyhound, Susan
Queen Elizabeth I was known to have a fondness for Greyhounds. Susan, her favourite, was a loyal companion who followed her everywhere, including into battle.
8. Mary, Queen of Scots’ Maltese Terrier, Geddon
Mary, Queen of Scots, was accompanied by her Maltese Terrier, Geddon, even to her execution. Geddon was found hidden in her skirts after she was beheaded.
9. King George VI’s Labrador, Widgeon
King George VI was known for his love of Labradors, and Widgeon was his favourite. Widgeon was a faithful companion who often accompanied the King on hunting trips.
10. Princess Margaret’s Dachshund, Pipkin
Princess Margaret had several dogs, but she was particularly fond of her Dachshund, Pipkin. Pipkin was a constant companion and appeared in many of her personal photos.
11. Queen Mary’s Pomeranian, Pippin
Queen Mary, the grandmother of Queen Elizabeth II, had a Pomeranian named Pippin. Pippin was known for his playful nature and was a favourite at court.
12. King Charles II’s Spaniels
King Charles II is often associated with the King Charles Spaniel, a breed named after him. He was rarely seen without his beloved Spaniels, who roamed freely in his court.
13. Queen Anne’s Pug, Phoebe
Queen Anne had a deep affection for her Pug, Phoebe. Phoebe was a constant presence in her life and was even included in her official portraits.
14. Princess Diana’s Hamster, Marmaduke
As a child, Princess Diana had a pet hamster named Marmaduke. She often spoke fondly of him and her love for animals.
15. King Henry VIII’s Mastiff, Ball
King Henry VIII owned a Mastiff named Ball, who was known for his strength and loyalty. Ball was often used in the King’s hunting expeditions.
16. Queen Caroline’s Parrot, Polly
Queen Caroline, the wife of King George II, had a pet parrot named Polly. Polly was known for her ability to mimic the Queen’s voice and was a popular figure at court.
17. Prince Albert’s Greyhound, Eos
Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria, had a Greyhound named Eos. Eos was a constant companion and featured in many family portraits.
18. Princess Beatrice’s Norfolk Terrier, Max
Princess Beatrice, daughter of Queen Victoria, had a Norfolk Terrier named Max. Max was a loyal companion and often seen by her side.
19. King George III’s Donkey, Billy
King George III had a pet donkey named Billy, who was allowed to roam freely around Windsor. Billy was a favourite among the King’s children.
20. Queen Elizabeth II’s Dorgi, Candy
Besides her Corgis, Queen Elizabeth II also had Dorgis (a crossbreed between a Dachshund and a Corgi). Candy was one of her favourites, often seen at the Queen’s side.
21. King James I’s Deerhound, Juno
King James I was known for his love of hunting, and his Deerhound, Juno, was his favourite hunting companion. Juno was known for her speed and agility.
Are You Treating Your Pet Like Royalty?
These regal pets have enjoyed the best of care and companionship. Reflect on the bond you share with your pets and consider if they are getting the royal treatment they deserve. Are you doing enough to ensure their happiness and well-being?
The post Pet Royalty: The 21 Regal Pets in British History first appeared on PawShore.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / dezy.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
