Kelsea Ballerini’s Beloved Dog, Dibs, Dies After Battling Cancer

Country singer Kelsea Ballerini is mourning the loss of her precious pup, Dibs, who she called her “soul dog.”

Kelsea named Dibs after her 2015 single, “Dibs.” He remained her loyal companion throughout the next ten years, often traveling with her on tour. He even visited the set of The Voice when Kelsea served as a coach during Season 27.

Dibs was diagnosed with cancer in 2024. Following his diagnosis, Kelsea hoped to keep Dibs happy and comfortable for as long as possible.

Sadly, Dibs passed away on January 7. Kelsea shared the heartbreaking news of his passing the following day (January 8), writing, “my sweet dibs went to doggy heaven yesterday. he spent his last few days in his backyard looking at the sunshine and surrounded and visited by his forever people.”

Kelsea shared how much Dibs meant to her, writing, “There are no words to articulate his role in my life, but i couldn’t have done the last ten years without him, and he will always be my soul dog…and i pray and believe we’ll find each other in every life.“

Kelsea’s post included several photos and videos of Dibs throughout his life. One of the first pictures in her slideshow shows Dibs as a tiny puppy.

“i feel like the luckiest girl in the world that i got to be his dog mom, greatest gift of my life,” Kelsea ended the post.

Kelsea also shared a post about Dibs’ passing on his dedicated Instagram account. Writing in Dibs’ voice, she said:

“I’m cancer free now, and my last days were so happy. My mom and my aunts and dad and grandma are going to show you a lot of my life on this page because I have so many pictures and videos that we all wanna share. Also, love you and thank you.”

Friends And Fans Share Condolences After Dibs’ Death

Kelsea’s friends and fans shared condolences and comforting words in response to her post about Dibs’ passing.

Carly Pearce said, “Oh kels ❤️😢.”

“i’m so sorry kels❤️❤️❤️” wrote Dasha.

Country singer and Nashville star Charles Esten commented, “Oh, Kelsea. We are heartbroken and so sorry for the loss of your sweetest Dibs. Sending our love.❤️”

“Sucks…Dogs are the best. ❤️ 🙏🏻” said Chuck Wicks.

Tigirlily Gold commented, “So so sorry Kelsea 😢 sending many hugs your way… he will always be with you.”

“I am so sorry !!😢 my heart is sad for you, my friend. Sending you love. 💜💜💜” said Jo Dee Messina.

Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild said, “Sweetest pup ever. love you kels.”

Kelsea’s boyfriend, Outer Banks star Chase Stokes, wrote, “My sweet sweet boy.”

“The worst heartbreak ❤️‍🩹 I’m so deeply sorry , Dibs was so loved and so lucky to have you ❤️” wrote one fan.

Another follower said, “oh kelsea, im so sorry 🩵sending you so much love and healing strength during this time. you will always find each other.”

Our hearts go out to Kelsea during this difficult time. May Dibs rest in peace…