No dog left behind! Kate knelt down to pet an inquisitive dog after spotting it poking its head out from beneath the barriers
Duchess Kate, 37, and William, 36, were greeted by English springer spaniels Max, Paddy and the cheekily named Prince Harry on their arrival in the pretty market town of Keswick.
The Duke and Duchess were first introduced to therapy dog Max and his owner Kerry Irving, 54, a mental health campaigner, at a Buckingham Palace garden party last month.
It is understood Mr Irving so impressed the royals that he was invited to meet them again on their visit to his hometown of Keswick today.
The royals chatted happily with Mr Irving and his wife Angela before taking part in a walkabout through Market Square, which was decorated with colourful bunting for the occasion.
The usually polished Duchess opted for a practical look in preparation for the day's hands-on engagements, swapping her heels for favourite £250 See By Chloé combat boots and wearing black skinning jeans.
First stop was the Market Square in Keswick, where William and Kate met volunteers, community leaders, and sampled local produce.
Among them were mental health campaigner Mr Irving, his wife and their three dogs.
The couple - and faithful 11-year-old therapy dog Max - first met the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at the Queen's garden party, after being invited in recognition for Mr Irving's work in mental health. Read more from the Daily Mail.