The Prince and Princess of Wales have recently expanded their family—this time with some furry additions—and a royal expert has offered insight into their decision.

Since early 2024, the family has faced a challenging period, most notably with Princess Kate’s cancer diagnosis following major abdominal surgery. S

he later shared with the public in January that she was in remission, expressing her “relief” and her goal to focus on healing, while hoping for a “fulfilling year” ahead.

A Joyful Distraction for the Children

Despite the emotional weight of the past months, there is now a lighter moment for the family of five—thanks to the arrival of a litter of puppies.

Writing for the Daily Mail, royal correspondent Rebecca English shared that the couple decided to let their beloved cocker spaniel, Orla, have a litter of her own. She explained: “We should not forget, of course, that Catherine’s young brood – Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, ten, and seven-year-old Prince Louis – have also endured a tough time.

“As parents, there is always only so much we can keep from our children, particularly when it comes to physical illness. It’s one of the reasons, I am told, that she and Prince William have decided to breed from their adored spaniel, Orla. Not only has it been something fun for the children to look forward to, but I am told they are planning to keep one of the pups.”

Celebrating with Puppies

Prince William recently celebrated his 43rd birthday, and Kensington Palace marked the day with a cheerful photo showing him relaxing with Orla and her new puppies. The post read: “Happy birthday! Love C, G, C, L, Orla and the puppies!”—a sweet nod from Catherine and their children.

Orla, a black cocker spaniel gifted to the family by Kate’s brother, James Middleton, has become a mother to four puppies.

Orla’s Place in the Family

Orla has made frequent appearances in family life. For National Pet Day in April, the Wales family posted a playful photo of her dripping wet after what was likely a muddy adventure, along with a caption celebrating the pets “who bring so much joy, companionship and love to our lives.”

Another notable appearance was in a birthday portrait of Princess Charlotte when she turned seven, showing her hugging Orla in Norfolk during a long weekend.

A Royal Love for Animals

The family’s bond with animals echoes the late Queen Elizabeth II’s well-known affection for pets, particularly her corgis and horses. Her Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022 featured more than 100 corgis parading through London—a tribute to her lifelong love of the breed.

Queen Elizabeth famously had dozens of corgis during her reign, prompting Princess Diana to once jokingly describe them as a “moving carpet” around her feet.