Barack Obama has confirmed that the family’s Portuguese Water Dog, Sunny, has died after 13 years with the Obamas. The former U.S. president shared the news on X, calling her a “loyal” companion who was “pretty much perfect” and a cherished member of the household.
Sunny arrived at the White House in 2013, shortly after Obama began his second term. She shared her time in the residence with Bo, another Portuguese Water Dog who had joined the family in 2009 as a gift for daughters Sasha and Malia to help them adjust to life in the presidential home. Bo passed away in 2021.
During her tenure, Sunny met numerous high-profile visitors, including foreign dignitaries and Pope Francis, whom she greeted alongside Bo in the Blue Room in 2015. She also made regular appearances at White House events, such as holiday parties for children and state visits.
Reflecting on their time together, Obama described Sunny as full of “boundless energy,” noting her talent for leaping over South Lawn hedges as if they were non-existent. He recalled her enjoying runs, floor rolls, and belly rubs, as well as her devotion to the girls and the staff, whom she often followed around.
“She loved having us run around with her, roll on the floor with her, or have her belly rubbed for as long as we were willing,” Obama wrote. He also noted her quirks, including being a “loud and sloppy drinker” and her dislike of getting wet.
Former White House photographer Pete Souza honored Sunny as a “willing subject,” remarking on the rare distinction she held of being petted by both a president and a pope.
Obama concluded his tribute by describing Sunny as “always loyal, always sweet, always ready for adventure, still fiery and gorgeous till the very end of her days.” He added that the family would miss her deeply and that she is now reunited with Bo.
I wonder if the Secret Service had any funny stories about her jumping hedges? Sounds like she had more energy than most kids.
Wait, she disliked getting wet? That seems wildly ironic for a Portuguese Water Dog. Nature has a sense of humor!
So sad to hear about Sunny. She was such a beloved part of the Obama family for over a decade.