Millions of fans worldwide are grieving the loss of Hampton, the beloved senior dog affectionately known as “Zawg,” who captured hearts and garnered a massive following on TikTok and Instagram.
Zawg’s owner, known online as @oswaldbillybarthomeul, shared the devastating news of his passing on January 25, 2025, via an emotional social media post.
“Hampton aka Zawg passed away peacefully today,” the owner wrote. “Little did he know he was loved by millions around the world. RIP to my best friend. I will never forget you.” The heartfelt tribute was accompanied by two poignant photos: one from their early days together and another capturing the pair in Zawg’s final moments.
Zawg, alongside his canine companion “Schlawg,” became an internet sensation, amassing over 853,000 followers and 65 million likes on TikTok, and 256,000 followers on Instagram. Their social media pages were a source of quirky and often hilarious videos, with the “Zawg / Schlawg” trend becoming a signature element of their content. This playful trend involved substituting the “d” in “dawg” with “zawg” or “schlawg” in captions paired with comical dog videos.
Following the announcement, an outpouring of tributes flooded social media platforms. YouTube star IShowSpeed expressed his sympathy, writing, “Praying for you. I know that feeling—it’s going to be alright.” Fans also shared their grief, with one commenting, “Zawg made me happy every time he popped up on my FYP. He will be deeply missed.”
Zawg’s passing has left a significant void in the hearts of his many followers, who will fondly remember him as a source of endless joy and laughter in their online lives.
