The TV judge, who has hosted his eponymous TV show since 2014, took to social media to share a lovely but heart-breaking tribute to his pet.
Posting to Twitter, Rob, 44, shared two adorable images of Rocco and left a special message for his very best friend.
Speaking to his 240,000 followers, he said: ‘My Rocco died suddenly yesterday. He blessed me with a lifetime of loyalty and limitless joy.’
It’s not known how old Rocco was, but the French bulldog has been known to TV viewers since as far back as 2016.
The message continued on with Rob saying that he wanted to reach out to anybody in the world who had ever loved a four-legged friend.
‘I don’t speak about my private world normally. But wanted to share my profound sadness with anybody who has ever loved a dog.’
‘It is the deepest gift of unconditional love imaginable,’ he concluded, finishing with a broken heart emoji.
Rocco first became known to Judge Rinder viewers when he was brought onto the barrister’s series in February 2016.
A year later, Rocco famously and rather hilariously left his mark on the show when he left behind a little surprise in Rob’s lap during an episode.
Messages of support poured in from dog owners on social media, who took the moment to share pictures of their own late friends.
One user said: ‘So sorry for your loss. It’s the worst. I still miss all my dogs but rescuing another from a shelter is the way forward.’
Another commented: ‘A month ago, my darling died in his sleep. Your words resonate so much. So sorry for your loss.’
‘The love for your fur baby is like that of a child. Losing them is pure heartbreak. Sorry for your loss.’
In recent weeks, Rob was confirmed as Giles Coren’s replacement on BBC series Amazing Hotels: Beyond the Lobby.
He said: ‘I can’t wait to explore some of the world’s most extraordinary hotels. Luckily, I’ll have [co-host] Monica Galetti by my side to keep me in check.’
Watch Judge Rinder on ITVX.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us [email protected], calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
MORE : Rob Rinder confirmed as Giles Coren’s replacement on BBC’s Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond The Lobby
MORE : Rob Rinder slams David Beckham over ‘tragic’ Qatar ambassadorship ahead of World Cup: ‘Money over morals’
