Prince William finds solace in walking James Middleton’s dog, Ella, as a way to escape the high-pressure, competitive card games enjoyed by the Middleton family, as revealed in James’ book Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life.

Prince William often skips competitive games at Kate Middleton's family gatherings due to the intense atmosphere. He cuddles their dog Ella to avoid participating. William has a fondness for dogs, owning a cocker spaniel named Orla after their previous dog Lupo passed away in 2020.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have an incredibly close relationship with the Middleton family - but it seems Prince William has a surprising reason for avoiding them at all costs

Prince William has an incredibly close relationship with his wife Kate Middleton's family, but he has been known to make excuses to avoid spending time with them in the past