The cutest photos of famous athletes and their dogs
When they’re not chasing medals or breaking records, many top athletes are busy hanging out with their pets, some of whom are nearly as famous as they are. These animal companions are living the good life and proving that even elite competitors melt for a wagging tail or tiny paw.
Tiger Woods with Bugs and Lola
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Hitting the green feels different when you’ve got two dogs fetching your golf balls. Since 2015, Bugs—a Border Collie-Springer Spaniel mix—has been part of Tiger Woods’s training crew, joined by Australian Shepherd Lola in 2019. Both dogs hang out on the golf course, with Bugs trained to retrieve errant shots.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Marosca
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Few pets go viral for a selfie, but Marosca—the yellow Labrador owned by Cristiano Ronaldo—did exactly that. Adopted before 2017, Marosca became instantly popular. The Portuguese superstar also shares his home with a hairless cat named Pepe and a pup named Antonia.
Elena Delle Donne with Wrigley and Rasta
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Rasta the Labrador and Wrigley the Great Dane are part of Elena Delle Donne’s inner circle. Wrigley even scored his own Instagram account. The Washington Mystics star and her wife, Amanda, included their pups in their marriage proposal. Both dogs are adopted from shelters and appear in Delle Donne’s PETA campaigns and posts.
Tom Brady with Lau and Scooby
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Lua, a pit bull mix adopted from a local shelter, once starred with Tom Brady in a UGG commercial. The beagle rescue Scooby rounds out the pack after the family bunch in 2015. The Patriots quarterback even takes his dogs to the gym and on long Boston walks.
Lindsey Vonn with Lucy, Leo, and Bear
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The Olympic ski racer first adopted Leo after a knee surgery; Bear came along later as his buddy, and Lucy, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, joined the trio from Italy. Lindsey Vonn’s dogs are great companions; they have their own Instagram documenting every hike, cuddle, and adventure.
Stephen Curry with Reza and Rookie
Credit: Instagram
Before the buzzer sounds, there’s usually some tail-wagging at the Curry household. The labradoodle Reza was the family’s first, followed by Rookie, a Goldendoodle puppy adopted in March 2017. These two fluffy MVPs often appear in Ayesha Curry’s posts and even celebrate Steph’s famous “Night, Night” move with their version.
JuJu Smith-Schuster and Boujee
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Boujee came into JuJu Smith-Schuster’s life in 2017 and quickly became his “son.” The French Bulldog, worth a cool $6,000, helped the Chiefs’ WR overcome his fear of dogs and now stars on Instagram with 200,000+ followers.
Klay Thompson and Rocco
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He called him his “No. 1 essential,” and fans knew Rocco—the English Bulldog—as much as they knew the jump shot. Rocco, who passed in May 2025 at age 13, featured in shoe promos and championship celebrations and even had a sneaker colorway.
Alexis Sanchez with Atom and Humber
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If you closely followed Arsenal’s training sessions, you might’ve seen Atom and Humber, Alexis Sanchez’s Golden Retrievers, trotting beside him. He later welcomed Simba in July 2024. All three dogs are Instagram regulars.
Russell Westbrook with Brodie and Indigo
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Brodie, the white-haired Yorkipoo, isn’t the only pup lighting up Russell Westbrook’s social feed. There’s also Indigo, a French Bulldog, often spotted alongside him. Brodie’s name is a tribute to the NBA point guard’s own nickname, and together they’ve built a following online with their playful videos and matching energy levels off the court.
Kevin Durant and Zo
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English Bulldog Zo became part of Kevin Durant’s life during his Oklahoma City Thunder days. He and Russell Westbrook even teamed up for a “Secret Life of Pets” promo featuring Zo and Westbrook’s dog, Sasha.
Serena Williams and Chip
Credit: Facebook
Chip has been tagging along with Serena Williams since around 2015. He was named after Rafael Nadal, and the Yorkshire Terrier accompanies her to matches, meals, and media events. After her beloved Shih Tzu Lorelai passed, Chip stepped in as her constant, cuddly travel companion and public favorite.
Russell Wilson with Naomi, Hero, and Bronco
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Prince was there from Russell Wilson’s rookie year, followed by Naomi, Hero, and Bronco—a Mother’s Day surprise for Ciara in 2022. Prince sadly passed in January 2025. The quarterback’s home is full of Great Danes, and each one has a backstory tied to family milestones and their love for big dogs.
Lionel Messi with Hulk and Abu
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Gifted by his wife, Antonella, in 2016, Hulk the Dogue de Bordeaux is massive, physically and socially. He’s even known to “play” soccer. The Messi household also includes Abu, a Toy Poodle who made the move to Miami with them. Both dogs are regular stars in the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s off-pitch posts and family moments.
Paul George with King and Kobe
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There’s King George and there’s Kobe—two Pitbulls that the nine-time NBA All-Star winner considers part of the squad. Kobe was named in honor of the late legend “Black Mamba” and often shows up in videos with Paul’s daughter. They all love playing basketball together.
Allyson Felix with Lucy and Ally
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The glamorous Yorkshire Terrier Lucy started appearing with Allyson Felix after Chloe passed in 2016. There’s also Ally, a Maltese adopted later. Lucy’s even done endorsement shots with the Olympic sprinter, who’s no stranger to the spotlight.
Michael Phelps with Onyx, Juno, and Legend
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Onyx the Great Dane takes competitive spirit seriously—fitting for Michael Phelps. Joining her are French Bulldogs Juno and Legend with their own quirks. Juno even shares Phelps’s love for water. These dogs bring balance and emotional support to the swimmer’s life.
Simone Biles with Lilo and Rambo
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Simone Biles’s household includes Lilo and Rambo, two French Bulldogs adopted in 2018 and 2020, plus a German Doberman. Her husband, Jonathan Owens, added Zeus, a bulldog, to the pack. Lilo and Rambo have their own Instagram, @thebilesfrenchies, and are known for their expressive faces and stylish doggy wardrobes.
Patty Mills and Harvey
Credit: Instagram
Harvey is a small female labradoodle that has become an unexpected guard dog and online favorite. Patty Mills adopted her through an online pet rescue site, and she often appears in his social content. While she’s small, she’s got a large presence and follows her NBA point guard dad to game nights and workouts.
David Backes with Sochi Jack and Sochi Junior
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Former ice hockey forward David Backes rescued Sochi Jack and Sochi Junior from Russia after the 2014 Winter Olympics. He and his wife, Kelly, didn’t stop there—they also adopted Jake and other pups through Athletes for Animals. Backes uses his platform to advocate for animal rescue nationwide.
Kyrie Irving with Rocky and Drew
Credit: Instagram
The two dogs, Rocky and Drew, keeping pace with Kyrie Irving, aren’t camera-shy. Drew, named after the player’s “Uncle Drew” alter ego, travels with the NBA star. He also owns a high-jumping cat named Kyrie. His crew of pets sticks close—and often steals the spotlight.
Gordon Hayward and Siber
Credit: Instagram
Siber, a striking German Shepherd, is rarely far from Gordon Hayward. Their strong bond is well-documented in countless photos and videos that show them hiking, training, or simply hanging out. The former OKC player’s love for the dog is clear, and fans often describe the two as inseparable and giving “best friend” energy.
Michelle Wie with Gatsby, Rome, and Daisy
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Michelle Wie’s household is anything but quiet with two Old English Sheepdogs, Gatsby and Daisy, and a Cane Corso puppy named Rome. Rome is the newest addition, introduced on Instagram with her husband, Jonnie West.
Ben Simmons with Jasper, Flash, and Chief
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Australian basketball small forward Ben Simmons has had a golden retriever named Jasper since childhood. Later came Flash, a French Bulldog, that he prioritized over living solo in Philly, and Chief, a Cane Corso he calls his “eldest son.” At one point, he even had Savannah cats—though he admitted they were his worst purchase.
Aly Raisman with Mylo and Gibson
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Adopted in October 2020, Mylo was born on July 16, the same year. He helped Aly Raisman heal and feel safe. She also has Gibson, a terrier mix, and Magic, both rescues. The Olympian says her dogs rescued her right back by offering comfort, security, and emotional support when she needed it most.
Lonzo Ball and Deuce
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After joining the Lakers, Lonzo Ball picked up a Rottweiler puppy and named him Deuce in honor of his jersey number. The pet became part of Lonzo’s new NBA lifestyle. He’s often spotted in casual hangouts or running alongside his owner in behind-the-scenes family clips.
LiAngelo Ball
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LiAngelo Ball’s Rottweiler, named Cash, joined the family at the same time his brother Lonzo got Deuce. While Lonzo took jersey inspiration, his brother went with a name that matched his off-court swagger. Cash, the strong and sleek companion, reflects the Ball family’s shared love for dogs.
LaMelo Ball with Django, Dough, and Dipper
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Scoring points on the court means meals for shelter pets—literally. LaMelo Ball donates 250 meals per point. His five dogs include Django, Dough, Dipper, Draco, and Dope. Dip, a Rottweiler puppy, was adopted around his 2020 NBA draft. Django, at 89 pounds, might be the real MVP at home.
Manny Pacquiao and Pacman
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Legendary boxer Manny Pacquiao’s Jack Russell Terrier named Pacman wasn’t only a pet but also a mascot. Introduced in 2006, Pacman was a training partner, travel buddy, and media darling. When he passed in 2020 after 14 years, it was the end of an era.
Jahlil Okafor with Natty and Duke
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Natty the Rottweiler joined Jahlil Okafor shortly after Duke’s 2015 national championship win. Named for that title, she’s known for her stamina and defense. His other dog, Duke Stones Jones, is a Husky-Pomeranian mix. Together, they make up a duo as competitive and loyal as their basketball-loving dad.
Tyus Jones and Duke
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Duke Stones Jones, a Husky-Pomeranian mix with an Instagram page, is famous for his sleepy vibes and love of snow. The dog was named after the owner’s college years at Duke and shares his quirky personality online. He’s five years old and lives the chill life with Tyus Jones’s family.
Gus Kenworthy with Mishka and Jake
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Gus Kenworthy delayed leaving Sochi to rescue Mishka and Jake after spotting them near the Olympic Village. The pups now live in Canada, while their mom, Mamuchka, stays with Gus’s mother. He also adopted Beemo and Birdie from a South Korean dog meat farm.
Justise Winslow with Dixie and Duke
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Dixie and Duke—the Blue Heeler and Blue-Tick Hound—briefly made headlines when they went missing but were soon found safe. Justise Winslow also adopted Ronnie, a foster friend who needed time to trust again.
Kirk Cousins and Abe
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After rehoming a previous dog named Bentley, Kirk Cousins’s family found the perfect match with Abe, a five-month-old Australian Labradoodle. Abe offers safety and cuddles to the Cousins’ household. He was chosen with help from a professional trainer and has since become a loyal sidekick for the quarterback’s kids.
Meyers Leonard and Koko
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Meyers Leonard’s beloved husky by the name of Bella passed away in 2017. To fill that void, he adopted Koko, another Siberian Husky. Koko’s known for being moody whenever the former center travels. The dog quickly became an emotional anchor and the center of the household.
David Price with Astro and Louie
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Astro isn’t your typical French Bulldog—he’s had his bobblehead, a social media presence, and even a bullpen seat during spring training. David Price’s bond with Astro goes far beyond the usual pet relationship. Alongside Louie the Shih Tzu, Astro helps define a personal side of the baseball star.
Neymar with Poker, Truco, and Flush
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Neymar is proud of his golden trio of retrievers, namely Poker, Truco, and Flush. Poker, the oldest, even runs an Instagram account with tens of thousands of followers. The Brazilian soccer star also has a Corgi and once joked about being the “Corgi Cup Champion.”
Robin Lopez with Mimi, Muppet, and Belle
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Between Mimi, Muppet, Mr. Peter Parker, and Belle, Robin Lopez’s home is a canine convention. Muppet, the Goldendoodle, even made it to a Chicago Bulls exit interview. Each dog brings a bit of chaos, charm, and internet fame to Lopez’s life.
Tim Tebow with Paris, Kobe, and Chunk
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“The Tebow Pack” is made up of Paris, Kobe, and Chunk, all born within days of Tim Tebow’s wedding. Each dog was named after a personal milestone or hero, like Kobe Bryant. The Dalmatian, Golden Retriever, and Bernese Mountain Dog, respectively, keep life playful and are often seen in interviews or puppy-focused segments.
Andrew Wiggins and Cassie
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Cassie, Andrew Wiggins’ dog, is a favorite among Timberwolves fans and on Reddit. She often appears in his social media posts and is known for her sweet face and laid-back personality. For the Canadian basketball star, Cassie perfectly sums up his two biggest passions: basketball and spending time with his dog.
Harry Kane with Brady and Wilson
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Brady and Wilson—the Labradors named after NFL quarterbacks—are part of the Bayern Munich striker’s daily routine. He’s even called them during road trips and credits them with improving his mental health. Kane supports pet charities and has used his pets to promote adoption campaigns.
Ezekiel Elliott with Ace, Deuce, and Jack
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The Dallas Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott’s well-known pack of power breeds includes Ace, Deuce, and Jack. While they’ve had their share of legal drama, Elliott has also promoted pet adoption with $21 specials and donations. The trio even has a shared Instagram.
Rose Lavelle and Wilma Jean Wrinkles
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Wilma the English Bulldog is a 12-year-old costume-wearing soccer fan with over 13,000 Instagram followers. She’s attended major events like Rose Lavelle’s 100th USWNT cap celebration. She has become the Gotham FC midfielder’s best friend and unofficial team mascot.
Alex Morgan with Blue and Kona
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Retired American soccer player Alex Morgan rescued Blue, a pitbull mix, and has since starred in beach birthday parties and PETA commercials. Alongside Kona, another rescue, and a cat named Brooklyn, Blue plays a major part in Morgan’s life. The soccer icon also partners with adoption advocates like Stella & Chewy’s.
Christen Press and Morena
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Morena was found at a recycling center and quickly became part of Christen Press’s growing rescue family. Later came Bob, a playful puppy adopted with partner Tobin Heath. Press says adopting dogs saved them as much as they saved the animals—and that’s the kind of home every pet deserves.
Lindsey Jacobellis with Gidget and Sochi
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After Lindsey Jacobellis adopted Sochi during the 2014 Olympics, his life turned around. Gidget, a 13-year-old Yorkie mix, completes the duo. These two active friends love beach runs and skating alongside Lindsey. Sochi even inspired a children’s book called Sochi: A True Story.
Derek Stepan and Jake
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Jake spent six months on the streets before Derek Stepan and his wife adopted him. At first, Stepan wasn’t sure about adding a dog, but Jake’s snuggles and social side won him over. After consistent training, he became the perfect rescue success story.
George Kottaras and Leo
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Leo joined George Kottaras during the 2014 spring training as a tiny yellow Lab pup. The baseball catcher often referred to Leo as his “first child” and even included him in photo day shoots.
David Ortiz with Foxy, Bruschi, and Happy
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Foxy, Bruschi, and Happy each bring a different energy to David Ortiz’s home. The boxer-bulldog mix and two terriers are regulars in his social posts. Ortiz is active with Boston’s Animal Rescue League, often volunteering and advocating for adoption.
Greg Louganis with Dobby, Hedwig, and Pax
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Agility isn’t just important in Olympic diving—Greg Louganis’s dogs compete in agility contests too. Dobby the Jack Russell, Hedwig the Hungarian Pumi, and Pax the Pyrenean Shepherd are all part of his training crew, while his Border Collie, Gryff, rounds out the pack. These pups are athletes in their own right, just like their owner.