Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama announced on Wednesday that their family dog, Sunny, has died at the age of 13.
In a joint social media statement, the couple described losing a “cherished member of our family” and said they would miss her terribly.
Sunny, a Portuguese water dog, arrived at the White House in August 2013, joining older brother Bo, another Portuguese water dog who had been with the family since 2009. She spent nearly four years as a resident of the executive mansion before moving with the Obamas to their home in Washington, D.C.
The Obamas recalled Sunny as a “force of nature” characterized by boundless energy and athleticism. They noted that she frequently leaped over hedges on the South Lawn and chased squirrels and birds. Unlike Bo, who was often motivated by treats, Sunny preferred interaction, such as running with the family, rolling on the floor, and receiving belly rubs.
According to the former president and first lady, Sunny was fiercely protective of Bo and shared a particularly close bond with their daughters, Malia and Sasha.
“As far as our family was concerned, she was pretty much perfect,” they wrote. “For thirteen years, she would be by our side – always loyal, always sweet, always ready for adventure, still fiery and gorgeous till the very end of her days. We will miss her terribly, and imagine she’s with her big brother now, making sure he’s okay.”
Bo passed away in 2021 following a battle with cancer. Sunny was born in June 2012 in Michigan.
The line about her being by their side ‘always loyal, always sweet’ really gets you. My own dog recently passed and this hit hard. Condolences to the Obamas.
Honestly, I didn’t realize Sunny was there at the White House too. I only remember Bo. Good to know she had her own special bond with the girls.
I wonder if the Obamas plan to get another dog now? Bo and Sunny were such iconic pets. This feels like the end of an era.
Portuguese water dogs are such energetic breeds. It is impressive she lived to 13 with all that activity. A full life indeed.
Heartbreaking news. Sunny was such a beloved part of the family for over a decade. RIP sweet girl.