Summary (tl;dr)

"Dancing with the Stars" judge Derek Hough is mourning the loss of his beloved dog, Romie, who passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2026, after nearly 15 years together.

Essential Background

Romie, a German Shepherd and husky mix, was a rescue dog adopted by Derek Hough around 2012. For 14 to 15 years, Romie was a constant companion to Hough, witnessing significant life milestones including his marriage to Hayley Erbert and the birth of their daughter. In the weeks leading up to his passing, Hough had publicly shared that Romie was experiencing declining health.

The Full Story

On Sunday, October 25, 2026, Derek Hough announced on Instagram the heartbreaking news of his dog Romie's death. He shared an emotional video and a tribute, expressing his profound grief and acknowledging the deep bond they shared. Hough described Romie as his "constant" who saw him through various stages of life, and noted the difficulty of waking up without his beloved pet. His wife, Hayley Erbert, also shared a tribute to Romie. The announcement has led to an outpouring of condolences from fans and fellow celebrities.

Why It Matters

The news of Romie's passing resonates deeply with many, highlighting the profound emotional bond people share with their pets. For a public figure like Derek Hough, openly sharing his grief normalizes the intense sorrow experienced when losing an animal companion, fostering a sense of shared understanding and empathy among his followers. This trend reflects the universal experience of pet loss and the significant role pets play as cherished family members.

Geographic Location

• Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California, United States (Derek Hough announced the passing of his dog, Romie, from his family home)