Lady Gaga takes 'a break' from her fiance Taylor Kinney

Lady Gaga has asked for her fans to "root" for her and her fiance after confirming they are "taking a break".

The singer and Taylor Kinney have been together for five years, but there had been growing speculation they were having problems.

In a post on Instagram, Gaga wrote they "really love each other" and have always believed they are "soul mates".

However, she says their ambition, long distance and complicated schedules have put a strain on their relationship.

Lady Gaga wrote on Instagram that "just like all couples we have ups and downs, and we have been taking a break".

The 30-year-old star started dating actor and model Taylor Kinney after meeting on the set of her video for You and I in 2011.

He proposed on Valentine's Day 2015 with a heart-shaped diamond ring.

Gaga wrote on Instagram: "He gave me his heart on Valentine's Day, and I said YES!"

There were rumours the pair had secretly married in March this year, which is close to Gaga's birthday.

However, in recent months they have rarely been photographed together.

Gaga, whose real name is Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, has also been pictured several times without her engagement ring.

Gaga and Taylor photographed weeks before her birthday

Fans have nicknamed the couple "Tayga".

When they discovered they were taking a break many, started tweeting #RootingForTayga.

A big concern for some is what will now happen to their two French bulldogs, Koji and Miss Asia Kinney.

Instagram photo of the dogs being taken for a walk.

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