Prince William and Kate Middleton recently celebrated Otto’s first birthday on May 1, 2026, coinciding with their 15th wedding anniversary. The couple introduced Otto, a brown cocker spaniel, as the youngest member of the Wales household.
Otto was born to their previous cocker spaniel, Orla, last May. The couple expressed their joy in welcoming Otto into their family by stating, “Welcome to the family, Otto! 1 today!” This heartfelt moment marks a significant addition to their household, especially following the loss of their previous dog Lupo in November 2020.
In addition to celebrating Otto’s birthday, the royal couple also shared a family portrait that includes their three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Notably, Prince Louis turned eight just days earlier on April 23, while Princess Charlotte will celebrate her eleventh birthday on May 2.
The Wales family has embraced pet adoption as part of their lifestyle. Otto’s arrival is particularly poignant given that Lupo was a wedding gift from Kate’s brother James Middleton and had been an integral part of their lives before his passing.
As observers reflect on this dual celebration—Otto’s milestone and the couple’s enduring partnership—there remains an evident connection between the joys of family life and the companionship offered by pets. The royal family’s narrative continues to evolve with these personal milestones.