Vanessa Hudgens is heartbroken after her dog Darla had to be put down

Vanessa Hudgens is heartbroken after her dog Darla had to be put down.

The 37-year-old actress has posted an emotional tribute to her beloved furry friend - who she described as "the smart little lady" - as she revealed the poor pooch's body had been "failing her".

Alongside a carousel of pictures, Vanessa wrote: "Anyone that knows me knew Darla.

"She went everywhere with me. Traveled the world. Was there for me every single step of the way.

"She was the smartest little lady I’ve ever known. I couldn’t have asked for a better dog. I am beyond heart broken today.

"Putting her down was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do, but her little body was failing her and it was her time.

"I already miss the pitter patter of her little paws in the house. If you have your own fur baby squeeze them extra for me. Rest in peace my sweet girl."

In another post, the High School Musical star also opened up on the bond Daria shared with Vanessa's husband Cole Tucker, despite not really liking men.

She said: "Darla didn’t like men. I think she was abused by one when she was a wittle ting before I met her but the moment she met my husband she was in love.

"Cuddled up on him and trusted him immediately. I knew from that point that point he was my guy."

Vanessa and her ex Austin Butler adopted the dog after his late mother Lori welcomed her as a rescue dog.