From New York Post · · 1m 50s
Barack Obama announces death of beloved first dog Sunny
The Portuguese Water Dog who charmed America during the Obama presidency has died at 13.
In brief
The Portuguese Water Dog who charmed America during the Obama presidency has died at 13. Sunny, adopted in 2013 during Obama's second term, became a beloved White House fixture known for her protective nature, mischievous personality, and public appearances that made her one of the most recognized presidential pets in…
Beloved first dog Sunny dies at 13
Former President Barack Obama announced Wednesday that Sunny, the Portuguese Water Dog who lived in the White House during his second term, has passed away after 13 years with the family.
Adopted in 2013, four years after Bo
The Obamas brought Sunny home in 2013, four years after adding Bo, another Portuguese Water Dog, to fulfill a promise to daughters Malia and Sasha. Bo died in May 2021.
A force of nature with quirks
Obama described Sunny as a 'force of nature' who loved the girls and the team, but had a mischievous side. She was a loud drinker, preferred people to dogs, and despite being a water dog, hated getting wet.
“She loved the girls, even if they were pestering her when she was napping.”
White House incidents and public fame
Sunny had a few mishaps, including knocking over a toddler in 2013 and biting an 18-year-old guest in 2017. Despite this, both dogs became so famous that authorities arrested a North Dakota man in 2016 who claimed he came to kidnap one of them.
Public ambassador for the White House
Sunny and Bo entertained crowds at the Easter Egg Roll, greeted tourists, visited hospitalized children, and cheered up wounded service members. Michelle Obama said in 2016 that she received monthly scheduling requests for the dogs' appearances.
“Everybody wants to see them and take pictures.”
Always loyal, always by their side
Obama concluded his announcement by saying Sunny was 'pretty much perfect' for thirteen years, always loyal and ready for adventure. He imagined her reunited with Bo, 'making sure he's okay.'
“We will miss her terribly, and imagine she's with her big brother now, making sure he's okay.”
The big picture
Sunny, adopted in 2013 during Obama's second term, became a beloved White House fixture known for her protective nature, mischievous personality, and public appearances that made her one of the most recognized presidential pets in recent history.
