Kylie Kelce Mourns the Loss of Beloved Family Dog Baloo, Following Heartbreak of Winnie’s Passing

Kansas City, MO – March 22, 2025 – Kylie Kelce, wife of retired NFL star Jason Kelce, shared a heartfelt and emotional post on Instagram earlier today, announcing the passing of their beloved family dog, Baloo. The post, which has resonated deeply with fans and followers, marks another devastating loss for the Kelce family, who are no strangers to the heartbreak of losing their cherished pets.

A Gentle Giant’s Farewell

Baloo, an Irish Wolfhound, joined the Kelce family in 2018 as a companion to their other dog, Winnie, another Irish Wolfhound. Known for their towering stature and gentle demeanor, Irish Wolfhounds hold a special place in the Kelce household. In her Instagram post, Kylie described Baloo as “the goofiest, sweetest, most lovable, and tolerant dog I’ve ever met. He wanted nothing more than carbs and pets. He was a simple guy, held together by bubble gum and paper clips.”

The post, accompanied by a collage of heartwarming photos, showcased Baloo’s life with the family—playing in the yard, lounging indoors, and sharing tender moments with the Kelce’s three daughters. One particularly poignant image captured Baloo lying beside a toddler, highlighting his gentle nature despite his massive size. Another photo showed Baloo splashing in a pool, his playful spirit shining through.

Kylie’s caption revealed the depth of their sorrow, writing, “The heartbreak is immense, but as Ellie so perfectly pointed out, the Winnie-Bubba reunion had to be pure magic.” Ellie, one of the Kelce daughters, asked where Baloo was going, and Kylie reassured her that he would be reunited with Winnie, bringing comfort in the face of grief. The post concluded with a touching farewell: “Miss you already, Bubbles. XOXO.”

A History of Love for Irish Wolfhounds

This loss comes less than a year after the Kelce family mourned the passing of Winnie in March 2024. Winnie, also an Irish Wolfhound, was described by Kylie as “everything I had hoped for in a wolfie and more,” in a previous Instagram tribute. The family’s love for the breed, known for being the tallest of all AKC breeds and described as “calm, dignified, and kindly,” has been a cornerstone of their family life.

Following Winnie’s death, Jason and Kylie welcomed a new Irish Wolfhound puppy named Nessie into their home in September 2024. During an episode of the New Heights podcast, co-hosted by Jason and his brother Travis Kelce, Jason introduced Nessie to fans, describing her as “a terror” but also “very loving” and “incredibly gentle.” The white and gray puppy, a continuation of the family’s tradition of embracing this noble breed, brought joy after the sorrow of losing Winnie.

A Family United in Grief and Love

The Kelce family—Jason, Kylie, and their daughters Wyatt, Elliotte, and Bennett—have openly shared their bond with their pets, making Baloo’s passing a public moment of mourning for fans of the former Philadelphia Eagles center and his family. Jason, who retired from the NFL in 2024 after a distinguished 13-year career, has often spoken about the joy his dogs bring to their busy household.

Starcade Media, which shared Kylie’s post on X, offered a touching tribute: “May flights of angels sing thee to thy sleep, Baloo. ” The post quickly garnered attention, with fans expressing their condolences and sharing memories of their own pets.

The Legacy of Baloo and the Kelce Family’s Resilience

Baloo’s life, as depicted in Kylie’s photos, was one of love, playfulness, and unwavering loyalty. Standing as tall as many humans, Irish Wolfhounds like Baloo are known for their gentle temperament, making them ideal companions for families. The Kelces’ commitment to the breed underscores their dedication to fostering deep, meaningful connections with their pets.

While the loss of Baloo is a significant blow, the family’s history of resilience shines through. The reunion Kylie imagined between Baloo (“Bubba”) and Winnie in the afterlife offers a poignant reminder of the enduring bonds they shared. As they grieve, the Kelces continue to find solace in Nessie, their newest four-legged family member, who carries forward the legacy of love and companionship that Baloo and Winnie represented.

Fans and followers can expect the Kelce family to continue sharing their journey, both on and off the field, as they navigate this difficult time. For now, the memory of Baloo—described as “held together by bubble gum and paper clips”—will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.