James Middleton hailed for giving his dog a 'beautiful life' as Kate's brother shares heartwarming video

Lewis Henderson

By Lewis Henderson


Published: 23/01/2026

- 10:13

The dog lover posted footage playing with his sleepy pup

Royal fans have been gushing over James Middleton's adorable video shared on Instagram, which features his dog Isla sleeping soundly as the entrepreneur played with her whiskers.

The cocker spaniel was warming up in the sun, fast asleep as James approached the pup, flicking her whiskers like guitar strings.


Isla lifted half an eye open to look at her dad, appearing unbothered as Princess Kate's brother strummed away.

Royal fans have been reacting to the sweet video, which has attracted over 3,000 likes on Instagram.

James Middleton

James Middleton shared the adorable video on his Instagram page.

|
INSTAGRAM/JMIDY

One commenter said: "Bless that baby, she has a beautiful life."

Another user joked: "That side eye", 'erm, can you not? I'm trying to nap!'"

One other royal fan said: "You're skilled at playing dog whiskers, your pup doesn't even notice."

The video, which was posted at the start of the week, was captioned with: "Monday has clearly been very productive (I have always wanted to do this and saw my opportunity."

Isla

Isla appeared unfazed as her dad played with her whiskers.

|

INSTAGRAM/JMIDY

The footage follows James sharing a separate video on how people can learn from dogs and setting himself a weekly challenge.

Princess Kate's brother admitted to feeling a little down, but it was his dog that made him feel brighter.

Taking to Instagram, the entrepreneur said: "So I'm not sure about you, but I feel the January blues have definitely kicked in now, and here I was feeling sorry for myself, and Isla comes along and has a way of cheering me up.

"It reminded me of a poem, my favourite poem called 'What I learnt about love I learnt from my dog'.

Isla

Isla lifted half an eyelid to see James strumming her whiskers.

|

INSTAGRAM/JMIDY

"It's just this incredible poem - it's gentle reminders of how we can learn and apply to our own lives that dogs apply instinctively already."

The poem is featured on James's dog food website, James & Ella, discussing how to deal with the loss of your dog.

It reads: "Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride together. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy. When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

"When you want treats, practice obedience. Let others know when they've invaded your territory. Take naps together and stretch before rising. Run, romp, and play daily. Be loyal."

James Middleton

James Middleton is a renowned dog lover.

|
PA

The poem continues: "If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently. Thrive on the attention and let people touch you.

"Avoid biting when a simple growl will do. When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body. No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout… Run right back and make friends.

"Delight in the simple joy of a long walk together. Love each other unconditionally."

Inspired by the poem and Isla's loving nature, James set himself the challenge of coming up with a weekly reminder of how people can learn from dogs.