Prince William turned 43 this week, and instead of a formal portrait or a royal gathering, he celebrated in the most heartwarming way — with puppies. A new photo, shared by Kensington Palace, shows the Prince of Wales sitting casually with his family’s Cocker Spaniel Orla and three of her four new puppies.
A Picture Worth a Thousand Tail Wags
The birthday photo was snapped by none other than Catherine, the Princess of Wales, earlier this month in Windsor. In the shot, Prince William looks relaxed in jeans and sneakers, surrounded by the energetic pups clambering all over him. It’s a sweet, candid moment — far removed from the usual polished royal images.
The picture came with a loving caption signed by Catherine and their children, George, Charlotte, Louis, and of course, “the puppies,” with a paw print emoji to complete the adorable message.
More Than Just a Birthday Post
The official Royal Family social media accounts also sent birthday wishes. One photo showed the prince sitting on a stone wall during a recent visit to farmers and food producers on the Duchy of Cornwall, land he inherited from King Charles. That visit happened in May, showing William’s continued efforts in environmental and community causes.
Orla, the dog featured in the photo, holds a special place in the royal household. She was gifted to William and Kate by Catherine’s brother, James Middleton, in 2020 after the passing of their previous dog, Lupo. Orla gave birth to her puppies in May 2024, and this is the first public glimpse of the little ones.
The Royals Keep It Real
While royal engagements like Trooping the Colour and the Order of the Garter procession reflect tradition and grandeur, this new picture reveals the more down-to-earth side of the prince. With recent challenges faced by the royal family, including Catherine’s health and her ongoing cancer remission, this personal snapshot offers comfort and warmth.
Catherine herself has slowly been returning to public duties, but with caution. Royal aides mentioned she’s finding a balance in how and when she appears, considering her ongoing treatment and recovery. Earlier this week, she sent a message in support of children’s hospices, showing her continued dedication to causes close to her heart.
A Royal Day Around the World
Interestingly, as William celebrated his birthday on the longest day of the year, his father, King Charles, was busy thinking about the shortest day of the year — in Antarctica. In a thoughtful message aired on the BBC’s Antarctic Midwinter Broadcast, the King praised the work of climate researchers braving winter conditions while studying environmental change. It was a reminder of the broader royal focus on sustainability and science.
FAQs
Who took Prince William’s birthday photo?
Catherine, the Princess of Wales, took the photo of Prince William with their dog Orla and her puppies.
What kind of dog is Orla?
Orla is a Cocker Spaniel. She joined the royal family in 2020, a gift from Catherine’s brother.
When were the puppies born?
Orla gave birth to four puppies in May 2024. Three of them are seen in the birthday photo.
How old is Prince William now?
Prince William turned 43 years old on June 21, 2024.
Is Catherine returning to royal events?
Yes, but gradually. She’s balancing her return to public life after revealing earlier this year that she is in remission from cancer.