When it comes to sleeping arrangements, every couple has their unique preference. Maybe you opt for the Scandinavian sleep method, in which you and your partner have two separate duvets in order to avoid those midnight fights over who’s hogging the covers. Or maybe you have partaken in a sleep divorce and prefer to get your shut-eye in separate beds and bedrooms.

However, if you find yourself choosing to snuggle up next to your partner with your pet in between, night after night, you officially have the same sleeping arrangement as the most famous royal couple in the world — Prince William and Catherine Middleton.

In a recent outing, during which William paid a visit to Qi College, Stoke Climsland in Callington, Cornwall, he had a conversation with a local resident, Louise Harland, who was there with her dog Jax. The two quickly bonded over their pets, with the Prince of Wales also sharing a surprising detail about the role that his dog plays in his and Catherine’s marriage.

The prince said that his little dog sleeps on the bed with them at night, with him and Catherine. “William absolutely in love with my little dog,” he asked what breed he was, and he’s never met one of those breeds. He’s a Cocker Jack, so he’s a little bit of a unique combination.

The Wales family got their dog, Ora, after their first one, Lup, passed away in 2020 very sadly. “Last weekend, our dear dog Lup passed away,” the pair wrote in an Instagram post at the time. “He has been at the heart of our family for the past nine years, and we will miss him so much.”

Catherine’s brother, James Middleton, gave the royal family Ora in 2022. Ora is the son of James’s dog, Luna. “I am sad to see you go, and yes, I might cry, but it will be with happiness as each of your new homes are bursting with love,” James wrote in an Instagram post with Luna and her offspring after sending Ora along to his sister’s family. “You might be scared at first, that’s okay, just be yourself and you will never understand how much happiness you will bring to your new families and all the people you meet. Make me proud and remember to write.”

Even though Ora may be the only pet nestled between the royals at night, they also have other animals at Windsor Castle. In a visit earlier this year to Woodgate Valley Urban Farm, William interacted with some of the property’s guinea pigs and spoke about his own. “These guys are pretty cool, we’ve got guinea pigs at home, and they are not like this. I have to spend my life cleaning out the guinea pig cage because the children forget to do it, and then they run off because you have to handle them all the time. That’s why these ones are so calm.”

The Prince and Princess of Wales have recently faced significant challenges, including Catherine’s health battle and persistent rumors about their marriage. In March 2024, Catherine was diagnosed with cancer. Following abdominal surgery in January, she underwent chemotherapy and announced her remission in January 2025, expressing gratitude for Prince William’s unwavering support during her recovery.

Throughout this period, rumors alleging an affair between Prince William and Rose Hanbury, the Marchioness of Chichester, resurfaced. These speculations, originating in 2019, were reignited during Catherine’s absence from public duties due to her health. However, Rose Hanbury has publicly denied these allegations, stating through her lawyers that the rumors are completely false. Kensington Palace has also dismissed such gossip as totally wrong and false.

In light of these challenges, the royal couple has prioritized their family’s well-being. They spent a low-key Christmas at their Sandringham estate with their three children — Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis — marking a significant public appearance for Catherine after her treatment. This period allowed them to focus on healing and strengthening their bond away from public scrutiny.

Recent public engagements have showcased the couple’s unity and affection. During a visit to Pontpridd, Wales, they displayed rare public displays of affection, with body language experts noting their strong chemistry and mutual support. Catherine has openly praised William’s support during her cancer journey, referring to him as amazing and acknowledging the public’s support during this challenging time.

Looking ahead, the Prince and Princess of Wales aim for a drama-free 2025, focusing on their health, family, and royal duties. They continue to engage in public appearances, supporting various causes and demonstrating resilience in the face of personal challenges.