Prince William's birthday portrait has ignited a significant online debate following a critical statement from PETA directed at the Royal Family.

On 21 June, the Princess of Wales posted a picture on Instagram featuring her husband seated in a field with their English Cocker Spaniel, Orla, and three of the dog's puppies.

The post was accompanied by the caption: "Happy birthday! Love C, G, C, L, Orla and the puppies! [paw print emoji]."

The future king was seen wearing dark-wash blue denim jeans and a dark green button-down shirt while playing with the pups. Orla, who joined the couple's household in 2020, walked behind him.

Though the new additions to the Wales family reportedly arrived in May, William's 43rd birthday portrait offered royal fans their first glimpse of the charming animals.

Prince William turned 43 on Saturday (21 June) and his birthday post has sparked quite the debate (Mark Cuthbert / Contributor / Getty Images)

While many admired the photo, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) subsequently criticized the royal couple for 'producing a litter' amid an animal homelessness crisis.

In a statement released on 26 June, Elisa Allen, vice president of programmes at the charity, remarked: "The Prince and Princess of Wales should be aware that shelters here and worldwide are overflowing with puppies eager for a second chance at a loving home. Producing a litter amidst this animal homelessness crisis is incredibly out of touch."

Referring to King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla's adoption of a puppy named Moley from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in February, Elisa added: "If William is to lead, he might take a cue from King Charles and Queen Camilla, who opted to adopt from a shelter rather than add to the problem."

PETA's statement has since sparked an online discussion, with some individuals siding with the non-profit organization.

PETA called out the royals for 'churning out a litter' amid an animal homelessness crisis (Instagram/@‌princeandprincessofwales)

One Instagram user wrote: "Please don't breed dogs. Adopt from the shelter. Save a life."

"Why not adopt homeless puppies???" questioned another.

Others, however, strongly disagreed.

"To everyone criticizing the prince and princess, it's none of your concern what they choose to do with their dogs," defended another commenter. "These puppies will receive the best of everything, and more importantly, they will bring joy to the kids, Kate, and William. You both are wonderful. We love you both."

A final supporter added: "Your puppies are beautiful. Don't listen to the critics; they are well-loved and cared for."

Speaking of Orla, William once shared a rare insight into his sleeping arrangements with Kate in a rather surprising bedroom revelation.

This disclosure came after he reportedly paused to pet a well-wisher's dog during a visit to Duchy College in Cornwall.

Louise Harland told Hits Radio Cornwall that William petted her dog, Jacks, and revealed that Orla often sleeps on the bed with him and his wife.

"[William] mentioned that his little dog sleeps on the bed with them at night, with him and Kate," Louise claimed.

"[He was] absolutely enchanted by my little dog. He inquired about the breed, as he had never encountered one like it before. It's a Cockerjack, so it's a unique mix."

Tyla has reached out to Kensington Palace for a comment.