Princess Mary, Prince Frederik and their four children are mourning the loss of their beloved family dog, Ziggy.
The Danish-born Border Collie passed away over the weekend after suffering from a chronic kidney condition.
Taking to Instagram to confirm the sad news alongside a final photo of the Danish Border Collie (above), which Princess Mary had taken, the official statement read: “The dog has been part of the family for the last 12 years and was a wedding gift.”
“Ziggy was a loyal and loving dog who unfortunately suffered from chronic kidney failure and arthritis. In spite of this quality of life was high until the end. This picture was taken last Sunday.”
Indeed, Ziggy’s connection to the family dates all the way to Mary and Fred’s 2005 nuptials after the Danish Kennel Club gifted the pooch to the newlyweds.
The chocolate-coloured pup was often seen chasing after his owners as they carted their young family around on bicycles on the streets of Denmark.
The royal couple enjoy a stroll with Prince Christian and Ziggy during a holiday in Skagen, Denmark in 2008.
Ziggy became a star in his own right after posing with various members of the royal family in official photo shoots.
In 2011, he stole the show in a stunning portrait for Prince Christian’s 10th birthday.
In the past, Princess Mary has admitted their dog is an integral part of their family life.
“In the morning we make porridge, and all sit around the dining table. Then we talk and eat, while our dog Ziggy runs in and out. It’s really cosy,” she previously told Hello!.
RIP Ziggy.
