Derek Hough mourns beloved dog Romie in emotional tribute after his death
Derek Hough took to Instagram on Sunday (25.10.26) to tell fans about his canine companion Romie’s passing, as he opened up about the effect his pet had on his life in the 14 years they spent together.
Derek Hough has been left with an “unbearable ache” following the death of his dog.
The Dancing With The Stars judge took to Instagram on Sunday (25.10.26) to tell fans about his canine companion Romie’s passing, as he opened up about the effect his pet had on his life in the 14 years they spent together.
Alongside a video of Romie walking in the grass on a sunny day, Derek began: “Romie came into my life when I was just trying to figure life out, it was just me and him, And for a long time, he was my constant.
“He saw me at my worst and at my best. He loved me through it all and somehow gave me purpose when I couldn’t find it myself.”
Derek added that Romie - who he adopted in 2012 from a shelter - had “promised” to try and hold on until the dancer’s first child with wife Hayley Erbert, daughter Everley, arrived in December 2025.
He continued: “He watched me grow up, fall in love, become a husband. And when he started to get tired, I asked him to hold on so he could meet his little sister, and he kept his promise. He held on.”
The 41-year-old went on to tell fans how hard it’s been to come to terms with Romie’s passing, especially when he wakes up in the morning.
He explained: “Waking up without him feels unreal. I keep looking at that spot where he’d usually come around the bushes, waiting, hoping. It’s strange to know he won’t come around that bend again.”
Derek concluded: “But thank you, my boy, for choosing us, for carrying me, for giving me so much. There’s an ache that feels unbearable. But it’s also proof that love lived here fully. And you always will.”
“Goodbye for now my sweet sweet Romie Boy.”
The comments section on the Instagram post was quickly filled with messages of condolences, with Derek’s sister Julianne tell him she was “wrapping you in love”.
Jenna Dewan, who is currently competing on Dancing With The Stars, added: “Ohhhh i know this pain so well. Romie is your angel spirit now, still with you. Sending you and the family so much love.”
While actress Danielle Fishel wrote: “Ugh, truly one of the deepest aches is losing our fur babies. I am so sorry for your loss and I am so grateful you were able to give him such a beautiful life and he did the same for you.”
