'DWTS' judge Derek Hough shares heartfelt tribute as his dog Romie dies after 14 years together
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'Dancing with the Stars' judge Derek Hough has remembered his dog, Romie, in a heartfelt Instagram post following his death.
Hough adopted Romie from a Los Angeles rescue in 2012, and the two spent 14 years together. In his tribute, the choreographer reflected on how his beloved pet stayed by his side through major milestones in his life, as reported by PEOPLE.
Derek Hough remembers Romie as his constant companion
In a Sunday, October 25, post, Hough shared a video of Romie walking on green grass. He began, “Romie came into my life when I was just trying to figure life out, it was just me and him. And for a long time, he was my constant.”
“He saw me at my worst and at my best. He loved me through it all and somehow gave me purpose when I couldn’t find it myself,” the 'Dancing with the Stars' judge stated, before further mentioning, “He watched me grow up, fall in love, become a husband.”
Derek Hough thanks Romie for his unconditional love
Hough married dancer Hayley Erbert, 32, in 2023. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter, in December 2025.
In his tribute, Hough recalled asking Romie to hold on until he could meet his little sister. He wrote that when Romie “started to get tired, I asked him to hold on so he could meet his little sister, and he kept his promise. He held on.”
The choreographer also shared how difficult it had been to imagine life without his longtime companion.
“I keep looking at that spot where he’d usually come around the bushes, waiting, hoping. It’s strange to know he won’t come around that bend again. But thank you, my boy, for choosing us, for carrying me, for giving me so much,” he explained.
Concluding his emotional tribute, Hough added, “There’s an ache that feels unbearable. But it’s also proof that love lived here fully. And you always will. Goodbye for now my sweet sweet Romie Boy.”
Carrie Ann Inaba and Tom Bergeron console Derek Hough
Many people shared their condolences on the post, including 'Dancing with the Stars' veteran Tom Bergeron, who recalled his own experience of losing a beloved pet.
“Years ago (MANY years ago), I took a day off from my 1st radio job because of a death in the family. When I went back to work my boss asked, ‘Who died?’ When I said, ‘My dog. We grew up together.’ I could tell he didn’t get it. Anyone who has ever loved a dog would understand immediately. Sorry for your loss, my friend. I definitely get it”
TV personality Carrie Ann Inaba also offered her support, writing, “I'm so sorry Derek... I know there are no words in moments like this.... we are sending you and your family extra love during this time. What a beautiful life you gave each other... all the way to the end... together. Sending so much love. He will never be far…”
The messages offered comfort to Hough and his family as they mourned Romie, who had been part of the choreographer's life for 14 years.
