Meghan Markle wants to adopt a rescue pet pooch for baby Archie

Meghan Markle is reportedly planning to adopt a rescue pup for son Archie to ensure he grows up with a loyal best pal.

Meghan plans to visit rescue centres near the home she shares with Prince Harry in Windsor to find a suitable pet pooch for young Archie.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex want Archie to have his own pet, and believe adopting a rescue dog is a much better option than buying a new puppy.

A royal source told The Sun: ‘Meghan really wants a dog with whom Archie can associate his childhood.

‘Rescue dogs are a huge passion for her so the pull to adopt rather than buy a puppy is far stronger.

‘She hopes they strike up an incredible bond and Archie can make plenty of memories.’

Meghan and Harry are already pet parents to two beloved dogs, including a Labrador they got in September and Meghan’s rescue Beagle, Guy.

Meghan also has a Labrador-German Shepherd, Bogard, but had to leave him at home in Toronto when she moved to the UK, as he was thought to be too old to travel.

Their adorable plan to purchase a special present for baby Archie comes after Meghan and Harry had him christened last weekend in a private chapel at Windsor Castle.

Meghan has long been associated with animal charities, and this year became the patron of Mayhew's animal welfare charity for cats and dogs.

In January, Meghan was seen cosied up to a Jack Russell called Minnie while visiting the Mayhew’s charity centre in Kensal Green, North West London.

At the time, Meghan was asked if she wanted to take the little pooch home.

Though, six months pregnant at the time, she said: ‘We can’t take another dog before the baby. Our hands are full.’

It seems the royals are all fans of pet pups. The Queen has famously owned 30 pet Corgis since she was 18-years-old, and Kate and William are also pet parents to a Cocker Spaniel, named Lupo, who was given to the pair by Kate’s brother, James Middleton.