Kate Middleton, Prince William Adopted A New Puppy Before Beloved Dog Lupo Passed Away: Report

Kate Middleton and Prince William welcomed a new puppy in their household before their beloved dog, Lupo, passed away in November, a report says.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge received the black cocker spaniel from Middleton's younger brother, James Middleton, last year, and it is now 8 months old, People reported.

Prince William and Duchess Kate have not yet shared any photos of their new family pet, which is the same breed as Lupo. But a friend of the royal couple told The Mail on Sunday that the Cambridges' new dog is "adorable" and that the whole family is "besotted."

The Cambridges were "devastated" when Lupo died, according to the pal. James reportedly gave the puppy to his sister hoping that it would "give Lupo some company and give him more life and energy," the friend said.

Prince William and Middleton announced Lupo's passing on Instagram on Nov. 22. The royal couple was heartbroken after losing their beloved pet, which had been part of their household for nine years.

"Very sadly last weekend our dear dog, Lupo, passed away. He has been at the heart of our family for the past nine years and we will miss him so much. - W & C," they wrote on Instagram.

James also mourned Lupo's death on social media. In a lengthy post on Instagram, Middleton's brother shared some background about Lupo's family and spoke about a dog owner's grief when their beloved pet passes away.

"It is with great sadness that Lupo, the beloved dog of my sister Catherine and her family has passed away. Lupo was the son of Ella, brother to Zulu, Inka & Luna. He was 9 years old," he wrote.

"Nothing can ever prepare you for the loss of a dog. For those who have never had a dog, it might be hard to understand the loss. However for those who have loved a dog know the truth: a dog is not just a pet; it is a member of the family, a best friend, a loyal companion, a teacher and a therapist," James, who has been honest about his struggle with depression, added.

Lupo was a Christmas gift from Middleton's parents to the couple in 2011, the same year Prince William and Middleton got married. He was reportedly very protective of Prince George, 7, and even helped the future king and queen choose his name, Vanity Fair reported. He also appeared in several family photos, including early photos of Prince George when he was still a toddler.