Derek Hough Mourns Rescue Dog Romie After 14 Years
Dancing with the Stars judge Derek Hough announced the death of his 14-year-old rescue dog, Romie, on October 25. The dog was a constant companion through major life changes and met Hough's daughter before passing.
Derek Hough has said goodbye to his 14-year-old rescue dog, Romie. The choreographer and Dancing with the Stars judge announced his pet's passing in an emotional social media tribute on October 25, 2026.
Hough adopted Romie in 2012 after volunteering at a Los Angeles animal rescue. The dog arrived during a period when Hough was trying to figure his life out. Romie became a constant presence, witnessing Hough's lowest and highest moments. Their journey spanned from before his marriage to dancer Hayley Erbert in August 2023 through to the birth of their daughter, Everley Capri, in December 2025. Romie fulfilled Hough's wish, meeting baby Everley before he died. The 65-pound dog served as the family's protector and a loving big brother to their other dog, Luna.
Emotional Impact of Loss
Hough's grief is palpable. He described the bond as foundational, with Romie watching him grow up, fall in love, and become a husband. The dog was a loyal companion through every difficult moment and life change. "I still found myself looking toward the familiar spot where Romie would usually appear," Hough said, describing the heartbreak of his absence. He called the ache of loss unbearable but saw it as proof of a love lived fully.
In his tribute, Hough directly thanked Romie for his unwavering loyalty. He credited the dog with giving him purpose during times he could not find it himself. The dancer shared that waking up without Romie feels unreal and that it is difficult to imagine life moving forward. A week before the dog's death, Hough had posted an emotional video about loss and learning to let go.
A Family's Farewell
Hayley Erbert also shared a separate, heartfelt tribute to Romie. She described him as her original adventure buddy after moving to Los Angeles, a snuggler, and the gentle leader of their pack. The couple, who are massive animal lovers and also have three cats, posted photographs and videos capturing their years with Romie. Friends, family, and colleagues from Dancing with the Stars flooded the comments with support. Fellow judge Carrie Ann Inaba sent extra love, while former host Tom Bergeron offered condolences drawn from his own experience of pet loss.
Romie's Lasting Legacy
Hough had spoken publicly about appreciating his aging dog while he was still alive, a sentiment that echoes now. The promise Hough asked of Romie-to hold on until meeting his little sister-was kept. This final chapter allowed the dog to complete his role in the family's story. For Hough, Romie's legacy is one of unconditional love and purpose. The ongoing process of grieving is intertwined with gratitude for the 14 years they shared, a bond that shaped Hough's life from uncertainty to fulfilled family man. His farewell focused on the love Romie gave and the indelible mark he left on their hearts.
