Orla and Charlotte: A Royal Bond Between Princess and Her Beloved Pet

When the story of a future Queen is told, it will not be written only in grand banquets and ceremonies, but also in the gentle companionship of a faithful four-legged friend. For Princess Charlotte of Wales, that companion is Orla—the black cocker spaniel who has quietly become her confidante, playmate, and favorite pet.

While the royal children have grown up in a world defined by tradition and attention, Orla has offered something priceless: unconditional love, loyalty, and the joy of ordinary childhood moments.

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How Orla Came Into Their Lives

The story of Orla begins with loss. In 2020, the Wales family mourned the passing of their beloved dog Lupo, another cocker spaniel who had been part of William and Catherine’s life since their early years of marriage. Lupo was not just a pet; he was a symbol of their young family, appearing in official portraits and padding across the floors of Kensington Palace.

When Lupo died, the family, especially the children, were heartbroken. Prince George and Princess Charlotte had grown up with him, and little Louis often toddled after the gentle dog in the gardens. It was Catherine’s brother, James Middleton—a known animal lover and dog enthusiast—who offered comfort. James had bred puppies from Lupo’s line, and he gifted one of them to his sister’s family. That puppy was Orla.

Thus, Orla’s arrival at Adelaide Cottage was not only the gift of a pet but also the continuation of a family legacy. She carried Lupo’s spirit while offering a fresh start, a new chapter of joy after grief.

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Orla and Princess Charlotte’s Bond

From the moment she bounded into the household, Orla gravitated towards Princess Charlotte. Those close to the family often remark that Charlotte has an adventurous, spirited nature, and Orla’s playful energy matched it perfectly. Whether racing across the lawns of Windsor, chasing after sticks, or curling up at the foot of Charlotte’s bed, Orla quickly became more than just a dog—she became Charlotte’s closest companion.

Charlotte, now old enough to take responsibility, took on feeding duties and short walks in the garden, often proudly declaring to those around her that Orla was “her dog.” Unlike the formalities of royal life, which can feel distant for a child, Orla represented freedom: muddy paws, wagging tails, and happy chaos.

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The Symbolism of Orla’s Name

The name “Orla” comes from the Celtic word meaning “golden princess.” It is almost poetic that the little spaniel who became so close to a real princess should bear such a title. Though her fur is black, her name reflects the brightness and richness she brought to the children’s lives.

Some royal watchers have commented on the appropriateness of the name—subtly linking the innocence of childhood with the dignity of heritage. For Charlotte, it was not about symbolism but simply love. She would call out Orla’s name across the gardens, laughter echoing as the spaniel raced toward her.

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A Constant Presence

Orla has appeared in several official photographs, though often subtly. One striking image captured her sitting dutifully beside Catherine on the occasion of her 40th birthday portraits, a sign of how integrated she had become into the family’s life. Another time, she was seen accompanying the children during outdoor activities, her presence adding warmth to otherwise formal images.

Behind the scenes, however, Orla’s role has been even more significant. In difficult times—such as Catherine’s recent illness—having Orla around offered the children a source of comfort. Pets are known to provide emotional stability, and Orla’s steady presence likely helped Charlotte and her brothers through moments of worry.

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Growing Up Together

For Princess Charlotte, Orla is not just a dog but part of her growing up story. Friends of the family often remark on how Charlotte speaks of her pet with the kind of pride and affection usually reserved for siblings. When visitors arrive at Adelaide Cottage, it is not unusual for Charlotte to lead Orla into the room, eager to introduce her as though she were presenting a royal jewel.

As Charlotte matures, her bond with Orla serves as a lesson in responsibility, empathy, and loyalty. Feeding times, grooming, and daily walks have helped instill a sense of routine and care that goes beyond royal duty. It is said that William and Catherine encouraged this bond deliberately, knowing how important pets can be in teaching children about love and responsibility.

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Orla at the Heart of Family Life

Unlike the grandeur of palaces and castles, life at Adelaide Cottage is deliberately quieter, designed to give the children as normal an upbringing as possible. In this setting, Orla fits seamlessly. She runs across the lawns, plays with the children, and curls up by the fireplace in the evenings.

During royal holidays in Norfolk or Balmoral, Orla often travels with the family, her playful antics a source of joy not just for the children but for the adults as well. Catherine has spoken before about the importance of dogs in family life, noting how they bring happiness and help to relieve stress. Orla has fulfilled this role with grace, becoming the heartbeat of the household.

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The Favorite Pet

Though the family has other pets and animals around them, Orla stands out as Charlotte’s “favorite.” Friends say that Charlotte often draws pictures of her beloved spaniel, doodling floppy ears and a wagging tail in her notebooks. At times when the young Princess feels shy or overwhelmed by public appearances, Orla has been known to provide quiet reassurance back home—always waiting with an eager tail wag when Charlotte returns.

It is a relationship rooted in innocence, but also one that carries deep meaning. Pets like Orla remind us that even royal children, who will one day carry the burden of crowns and history, are first and foremost children who long for companionship and love.

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Conclusion

The tale of Orla and Princess Charlotte is a reminder that even in the most famous family in the world, it is the simple things—muddy paws, long walks, cuddles on the sofa—that matter most. Orla was more than just a present; she was a gift of continuity, healing, and unconditional love.

For Princess Charlotte, growing up alongside her favorite pet has been both joy and comfort. Orla has been there through laughter, play, and even moments of quiet sadness. And as Charlotte steps into her role as a young royal, she does so with a faithful friend always at her side.

In the history books, the name Orla may never appear in bold letters. But for one little girl in Windsor, Orla is already unforgettable—the golden-named spaniel who became her dearest companion, her secret keeper, and her favorite pet.