Robert Irwin is sharing a difficult life update.
Amid his time on Dancing With the Stars, the Australian wildlife photographer announced that his pug, Stella, is going through a health battle.
“This is a tough one,” Robert wrote in an Oct. 12 Instagram post, alongside black and white photos of his dog. “I wanted to give an unfortunate update on my sweet little pup, Stella. A mass was discovered that ended up being cancerous. We still don’t know the full extent of the cancer. I have faith she’ll be in the clear.”
Indeed, Robert emphasized that Stella, who he shares with mom Terri Irwin and sister Bindi Irwin, is “such an important part” of their family.
“It’s been stressful to say the least being away from home and away from her while she goes through this,” Robert continued. “I know you guys love seeing her and I love sharing her with you so wanted to give an update. She is doing ok post-surgery so far, she’s my little bestie and one tough cookie.”
As Robert—the son of Teri and the late Steve Irwin—continues his stint on Dancing With the Stars alongside professional dancer Witney Carson, his family has shared updates on their pup through her own Instagram account, Stella Irwin the Pug.
And the Irwins proved that Stella is recovering fine, adding a sweet photo of the dog basking in the sun Oct. 11 alongside the caption, “I’m solar powered!”
Amid Robert’s rise to fame, the family has poked fun at his heartthrob status on Stella’s account too. In an April 5 selfie of the 21-year-old and the pug, the family wrote in Stella’s persona, “Back away everyone…he’s mine.”
Of course, Robert has made it clear that Stella owns his heart, too. In another Aug. 4 post from the account, the wildlife conservationist holds up his pup a la The Lion King, adding in the caption, “Everything the light touches is her kingdom.”
For more stars showing off their bond with their pets, keep reading…
Sydney Sweeney
The Euphoria actress introduced her pup Sully in April 2025, writing on Instagram, "He’s become my set best friend, my bowling partner, my nap buddy, mutual water enthusiast, and travel companion."
Brie Larson
Brie, who was already a dog mom to pooch Six-Thirty, welcomed her newest addition on Instagram in October 2024, writing, "Proud to announce there’s a new *star* in my life."
Kevin Costner
The Yellowstone star introduced his new dog to the world in February 2024, writing on Instagram, "I'm already in love with this special guy."
Sarah Jessica Parker
The Sex and the City alum adopted the same kitten Carrie Bradshaw takes in during the second season of And Just Like That.
Jimmy Fallon
Party crasher! The late night talk show host's dog Gary joined him as he perfomed a remote opening monologue during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Taylor Swift
T.Swift is arguably our favorite cat lady, especially when she posts pics with her cat Meredith. She took her love for cats to another level by starring in the movie Cats.
Kaley Cuoco
The Big Bang Theory actress has many four-legged friends keeping her busy at home.
Ariana Grande
"Guess what everyone it's time for me to post THIS photo again. happy birthday to the light of my life. my gooooszeeessskeh. i love u i love u i love u," the "Dangerous Woman" singer wrote in honor of her dog.
Jennifer Aniston
Dogs will always be there for you! The Friends star loves cuddling up to her dog Clyde.
Jeffree Star
The makeup mogul is a proud parent to multiple Pomeranians.
Emma Chamberlain
The YouTuber's cat Frankie sure knows how to photo bomb! Frankie and sibling Declan also have their own Instagram account with nearly 200K followers.
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson
"Our pre-workout ritual. We throw on 'Rocky Mountain Way' from Joe Walsh and get to rough housin'. He's definitely 'on one' and feelin' himself today cause he killed a lizard," the actor wrote on Instagram. "He also knows when I lay down its a trap! Smart boy. Let's get to work."
Zendaya
The Euphoria star gushed about her four-legged friend, "Missing my son...I get to see him in like 3 days #NoonyinNY."
Liam Hemsworth
"Nothing beats riding your horse on the beach," the Hunger Games alum joked.
Ice T & Coco
This family loves their bulldogs! King Maximus and Princess Alexus have their own Instagram page, too!
Russell Wilson
The Seatttle Seahawks quarterback brought this adorable pooch home to Ciara. "New Pup Alert!!! Welcome to the Wilson Family!" he captioned the precious pic.