Bella, the viral "smiling" dachshund from Tampa, Florida, was 14 years old when she passed away on December 5, 2025. Known for her unique crooked grin and snaggletooth, she was owned by Melanie Savage and had amassed a large following on social media.

How old was Bella the Dachshund?

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A Tampa family mourns the loss of Bella, a 14-year-old dachshund that went viral on social media for her natural smile, smirking her way into the hearts of online viewers.

What happened to Bella the Smiling dog?

Her owner, Melanie Savage, shared on Instagram that Bella passed away on December 5. Melanie said she never imagined that Bella's smile would touch so many people or create such a warm and caring online community. Bella became very sick during the night, and Melanie rushed her to an emergency vet.

How old is Bella the dog?

Bella, the dog who stole the internet's heart this year with her adorable smile has sadly passed away at age 14.

How old is the oldest Dachshund to live?

The longest-living dachshund widely reported is Rocky, a smooth-haired dachshund who lived to be 25 years and one month old, though he wasn't an official Guinness World Record holder. A recognized record-holder was Chanel, a dachshund mix who held the Guinness title for the oldest living dog, reaching 21 years old before she passed away in 2009.
 

The Truth About DACHSHUNDS

What is the main cause of death in dachshunds?

Heart Disease

Heart failure is a leading cause of death among Smooth Dachshunds in their golden years. Most heart disease in dogs is caused by weakening of a valve. A heart valve slowly becomes deformed so that it no longer closes tightly. Blood then leaks back around this valve and strains the heart.

Is Bella the dog still alive?

Rest in peace, Bella 🤍 Bella, the dog that stole hearts with its adorable smile has sadly passed away.

Was Bella the dog found?

Bella is now home, safe and sound. “It was a very emotional moment for everybody. Even when she first saw me, you can tell she still recognized me a little,” Bella's owner, Sergio Torres, said. “She was really attached to my oldest son, and when she saw him, she was reaching out her paw and everything.

Is Smiley the dog still alive?

Smiley died in October after battling cancer, but his family is doing all they can to keep his legacy alive, starting with a blind puppy rescue and a statue. Joanne George tears up recounting stories she's heard about how her dog Smiley, a blind therapy animal with an indomitable spirit, has changed people's lives.

Does Troy have a crush on Bella?

Troy says that he and Bella are dating, hinting that he may have a crush on her. Both were the only ones that knew Troy was taking ballet (at first).

How is Valerie the dachshund now?

In short: Valerie the dachshund has been reunited with her owners 540 days after she first went missing from a Kangaroo Island campsite. Kangala Wildlife Rescue says they are thrilled the trio are back together but admits that saying goodbye to the sausage dog will not be easy.

Is Bella 18 or 19?

Eclipse continues the paranormality of 18-year-old human Bella and the vampire Edward's relationship. Edward is reluctant to change Bella into a vampire, believing that becoming a vampire will destroy her soul.

How many dogs played Bella in A dog's Way Home?

The dog that plays the adult version of Bella is named Shelby the Dog and she was a rescue dog.

---