The 2024 Puppy Bowl Loses Its Smallest Ever Player

While football fans tuned in to watch Sunday's Super Bowl, dog lovers were glued to the highly-anticipated broadcast of the Puppy Bowl XX.

The annual show came with a bit of sadness for dog lovers following the death of the program's smallest ever player — an adorable cavapoo named Sweetpea. The late pup's demise sparked increased interest in the canine's story and numerous tributes online.

The Puppy Bowl has been winning the hearts of dog lovers for 20 years, with this year's installment being no exception. Fans of the show tune in to see a variety of cute puppies available for adoption, which is the program's primary objective.

The show encourages people to adopt puppies instead of purchasing them from breeders. Sometimes, as was the case with Sweetpea, these young pups require extra care, and viewers are shown the brilliance of each dog's individuality.

In summary, the Puppy Bowl spends time honoring dogs that need a home and has generated quite the buzz for airing opposite the Super Bowl. While the famous football event is broadcast live, the puppy show is filmed in October and dropped on the same day as the NFL program.

The Puppy Bowl is filmed early because it reportedly takes several days for showrunners to compile the necessary footage. Veterinarians always participate in the filming to ensure no dogs are harmed during the games, per Distractify.

Unfortunately, the significant care and attention put into the show could not save the smallest dog in the competition's history. Sweetpea stole the hearts of many who watched the Puppy Bowl competition, but the sweet cavapoo died following the filming of the games.

There is little information about the exact circumstances around Sweetpea's death; however, Animal Planet confirmed the pup's death in a touching X post, writing:

"Sweetpea was rescued by a shelter that specializes in helping special needs puppies. Sadly, she was unable to overcome her health issues. We dedicate #PuppyBowl XX to her memory."

As stated, the heartbreaking announcement of Sweetpea's death sparked numerous tributes on social media. Many X users expressed remorse over the pup's death, noting she had been a significant player in the games.

One user lamented, "Oh no! We were cheering so hard for her sweetheart. Feeling absolutely gutted but know she is happy at the rainbow bridge and in good health and able to play." Another Sweetpea fan echoed similar sentiments, writing:

"She was so adorable. See you at the rainbow bridge, Sweetpea ?? Thank you to her rescue for doing what you could for her. ^st.”

A third added, "I wasn't expecting this at the end of your broadcast & it totally broke my heart. RIP precious girl." More Puppy Bowl viewers continued raving about Sweetpea's memory, with a fourth stating, "Aw sweetpea is cute dog and am sorry for the loss of her and have my thoughts and prayers."

"Not my girl Sweetpea! ?" someone cried, while another claimed, "Baby was trying her best at #PuppyBowl Sweet little Sweetpea. You will be remembered!???"

"I am glad you kept her in the show and dedicating it to her was a special touch. She was so sweet. I am happy to have been able to see her and enjoy her from a distance. RIP Sweetpea,” an X user shared, with a fellow grieving fan adding, "WORST NEWS I COULD HAVE POSSIBLY RECEIVED."

"So glad we all got to meet her & fall in love with her during Puppy Bowl XX today! She deserves a Hall of Fame spot for sure ❤️ Love you forever, Sweetpea! Rest in infinite Peace & Love, you majestic, beautiful angel," a commenter sweetly penned.