On July 3, 2025, the football world was shaken by the tragic news of Liverpool and Portugal star Diogo Jota’s untimely death in a car accident in Zamora, Spain, alongside his younger brother, André Silva. The 28-year-old forward, who had recently married his longtime partner Rute Cardoso, left behind a grieving family, including his wife, three young children, and their three beloved Beagle dogs. While the global football community mourned the loss of a talented athlete and extraordinary person, another poignant story emerged—one that has touched hearts worldwide: the profound grief displayed by Jota’s dogs, who have refused to eat and have lingered mournfully by his grave, showcasing the depth of their loyalty and love.
A Football Star’s Legacy
Diogo Jota was more than just a footballer. Known for his infectious joy, humility, and dedication, he was a beloved figure both on and off the pitch. With nearly 50 caps for the Portuguese national team and a key role in Liverpool’s Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup victories, Jota’s legacy in football is undeniable. His journey from Paços de Ferreira to Atlético Madrid, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and eventually Liverpool was marked by perseverance and talent. Beyond his athletic achievements, Jota was a devoted family man, recently celebrating his marriage to Rute Cardoso on June 22, 2025, just days before the tragedy. The couple’s three children—Denis, Duarte, and a third child—were the heart of their family, which also included their cherished Beagle dogs.
These dogs, integral to the family’s life, appeared in countless cherished moments, from wedding celebrations to Christmas gatherings and baby showers. They were not merely pets but family members who shared in the joy and love of the Jota-Cardoso household. The sudden loss of Jota and his brother has left a void not only for their human loved ones but also for these loyal companions, whose grief has become a heartbreaking symbol of the family’s loss.
The Dogs’ Heartbreaking Grief
In the days following Jota’s passing, reports surfaced about the profound sadness exhibited by the family’s three Beagles. According to sources close to the family, the dogs have been visibly distraught, refusing to eat for days and displaying behaviors that mirror human mourning. Friends and neighbors have noted that the dogs, usually playful and energetic, have become lethargic and withdrawn, often lying near mementos of Jota or in places where he used to spend time with them. Most poignantly, the dogs have been seen lingering near Jota’s grave, a sight that has moved onlookers to tears and resonated deeply with the public.
Animal behavior experts suggest that dogs, known for their emotional intelligence and strong bonds with their owners, can experience grief in ways similar to humans. “Dogs form deep attachments to their human companions, and the sudden absence of a loved one can lead to behaviors like loss of appetite, lethargy, and even searching for the person who is gone,” says Dr. Emily Thornton, a veterinary behaviorist. “For these Beagles, Diogo Jota was likely a central figure in their lives, and their grief reflects the strength of that bond.” The dogs’ refusal to eat is particularly concerning, as prolonged lack of appetite can lead to health issues, prompting the family to seek veterinary care to ensure their well-being.
The image of the Beagles lying by Jota’s grave has become a powerful symbol of loyalty and loss. Witnesses describe the dogs as sitting quietly, their heads bowed, as if paying their respects. This behavior has struck a chord with fans and animal lovers alike, with social media platforms flooded with messages of sympathy and admiration for the dogs’ devotion. One fan posted on X, “Seeing Diogo Jota’s dogs by his grave breaks my heart. They loved him so much, and it shows how special he was.” The dogs’ actions have not only highlighted their bond with Jota but also served as a reminder of the universal language of love and grief that transcends species.
A Family in Mourning
The tragedy has been especially devastating for Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso, who collapsed outside the morgue after identifying her husband’s body. The couple’s recent wedding, filled with joy and hope, now stands in stark contrast to the grief that has engulfed their family. Rute, who has been a pillar of strength for their three children, is also navigating her own sorrow while caring for the dogs, who have become a poignant reminder of her husband’s presence in their home. The children, too young to fully comprehend the loss, have been seen clinging to the dogs for comfort, creating a heartbreaking tableau of shared grief.
Jota’s parents, who supported his football dreams despite financial struggles, are grappling with the unimaginable loss of both their sons. The wake and funeral, held on July 4 and 5 in Gondomar, Portugal, were attended by family, friends, and Liverpool teammates, including Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson, and Joe Gomez. The Portuguese Football Federation, led by President Pedro Proença, expressed its devastation, noting Jota’s role as a community figure and an extraordinary person. The football world, from Cristiano Ronaldo to Jürgen Klopp, has rallied around the family, offering condolences and tributes that underscore Jota’s impact both as a player and as a human being.
The Dogs’ Role in the Family’s Healing
As the family navigates this profound loss, the Beagles have become an unexpected source of comfort and connection. Animal-assisted therapy experts note that pets can play a significant role in helping humans process grief. “Dogs provide unconditional love and a sense of routine, which can be grounding during times of loss,” says Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a psychologist specializing in grief counseling. “For the Jota-Cardoso family, these dogs may serve as a link to Diogo’s memory, offering comfort even as they grieve themselves.”
Efforts are underway to support the dogs’ well-being, with veterinarians recommending gentle encouragement to eat, such as offering high-value treats or hand-feeding, to help them regain their strength. The family has also received an outpouring of support from the community, with local animal shelters and Liverpool fans offering to assist with the dogs’ care. A small memorial garden near the family’s home has been proposed, where the dogs could have a space to rest and where the children could visit to feel close to their father. This initiative, supported by local fans, aims to honor Jota’s memory while providing a healing space for the family and their pets.
A Global Outpouring of Support
The story of Jota’s dogs has resonated far beyond Liverpool and Portugal, capturing the attention of animal lovers and football fans worldwide. Social media campaigns have emerged, with hashtags like #JotaDogs and #ForeverLoyal gaining traction as people share stories of their own pets’ loyalty and grief. The football community has also responded, with clubs like Manchester United, Chelsea, and Manchester City issuing statements of condolence that acknowledge the family’s loss, including the impact on their pets. At a recent preseason friendly between Liverpool and Preston North End, fans held banners honoring Jota, and a minute’s silence was observed, with the dogs’ story mentioned in heartfelt tributes.
The dogs’ grief has also sparked discussions about the emotional lives of animals and the need to support pets during times of loss. Animal welfare organizations have used the story to raise awareness about pet bereavement, encouraging owners to seek professional help for grieving animals. “This story reminds us that animals feel loss just as deeply as we do,” says Maria Gonzalez, a spokesperson for a UK-based animal welfare charity. “We hope it inspires people to show compassion not only to Diogo Jota’s family but also to their dogs, who are mourning in their own way.”
A Lasting Legacy
Diogo Jota’s legacy will live on through his contributions to football, his infectious joy, and the love he shared with his family, including their three Beagles. The dogs’ refusal to eat and their visits to Jota’s grave are a testament to the bond they shared with him, a bond that continues to touch hearts around the world. As the Jota-Cardoso family begins the long journey of healing, these loyal companions will undoubtedly play a vital role, offering love and a connection to the man who meant so much to them.
In the words of Liverpool manager Arne Slot, “The best way forward is to follow Diogo’s shining example.” For the Beagles, that example is one of unwavering loyalty and love, qualities that Jota embodied and that his dogs continue to reflect in their grief. As the world mourns a football star, it also celebrates the profound connection between a man and his dogs, a reminder that love and loss are universal experiences that bind us all—human and animal alike.
