> At a Glance
> – Kelsea Ballerini announced her dog Dibs died on January 7
> – Dibs was diagnosed with heart cancer in August 2024
> – Ballerini calls him the “greatest gift of my life“
> – Why it matters: The tribute highlights the deep bond between pets and owners, resonating with millions of dog lovers
Country star Kelsea Ballerini is grieving the loss of her beloved dog, Dibs, who died after a battle with heart cancer. The 32-year-old singer shared the news via Instagram on January 8, posting a heartfelt tribute alongside photos and videos of their decade together.
A Decade of Love
Ballerini described Dibs as her “soul dog” and credited him with helping her through the last 10 years. “There are no words to articulate his role in my life,” she wrote, adding that she “couldn’t have done” the past decade without him.
The pair shared countless memories, from countryside walks to private jet rides. Dibs even visited The Voice set and wore a bandana celebrating Ballerini’s 2025 Entertainer of the Year nomination.
Final Days and Legacy
Dibs spent his final days in his backyard, “looking at the sunshine and surrounded and visited by his forever people,” Ballerini shared. She believes they’ll reunite in “every life” and called being his dog mom the “greatest gift of my life.”
A separate Instagram account for Dibs posted:
> “I’m cancer free now, and my last days were so happy.”
Ballerini plans to share more memories of Dibs on the account, saying, “going to share every good ounce of dibby’s existence.”
Key Takeaways
- Dibs was diagnosed with heart cancer in August 2024 but remained pain-free
- Ballerini announced his death on January 8, one day after he passed
- The tribute post included clips of Dibs swimming, flying private, and cheering her on
- Fans flooded the post with support, having “loved him so loudly” alongside her
The loss marks the end of a 10-year chapter for Ballerini, who credits Dibs with shaping her life and career.
