Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama shared news on Wednesday that their family dog, Sunny, has died. Sunny was 13 years old when she passed away on Tuesday. They posted a joint statement to social media describing this loss as the death of a cherished family member. ABC News reported the details of the announcement on Wednesday, confirming the Obamas said they would miss the dog terribly.
Back in August 2013, a Portuguese water dog named Sunny became part of the family during Barack Obama’s second term in the White House. She was the second dog for the family, following Bo who arrived in 2009. The New York Post noted that the former president described Sunny as a “force of nature.” She lived with the family for 13 years, including nearly four years at the White House, while Bo, the first dog, died in 2021 after fighting cancer.
The Obamas remembered Sunny as athletic and full of boundless energy. Writing about her, they noted she jumped over the South Lawn hedges as if they did not exist. She loved chasing squirrels, birds, and anything else that moved around the grounds. While Bo could be won over with a treat, Sunny preferred attention and playtime. The family dog enjoyed rolling on the floor and receiving belly rubs from everyone.
According to the Washington Examiner, Sunny was fiercely protective of Bo. The former president said she rightly sensed he wasn’t always as alert as she was. Even when Malia and Sasha pestered her during naps, she loved the girls. Obama also noted she loved the White House team and would follow them around helping on the job. She preferred people to dogs and was a loud and sloppy drinker.
Although she was a Portuguese Water Dog, Sunny detained getting wet. The family recalled her as always loyal and sweet. According to them, she stayed fiery, gorgeous, and prepared for adventure until her final days. The Washington Examiner reported that Sunny once bit a visitor in 2017 who tried to kiss her. The 18-year-old visitor needed stitches after the incident.
The Obamas concluded their statement by imagining Sunny is now with her big brother. They believe she is making sure he is okay in the afterlife. The couple stated that within their family, she was essentially perfect. Their tribute highlights her fierce loyalty to her family and her brother Bo. The announcement marks the end of a 13-year journey that began in the White House.
Bo became part of a heavily circulated selfie taken by former first lady Michelle Obama. Their black, curly coats contrasted sharply with the White House lawn, which was kept impeccably. During her time there, Sunny also entered the spotlight for reasons that were not glamorous. The family shared these final words to honor her life and spirit. The Washington Examiner, ABC News, and New York Post all covered the story. The Obamas’ joint statement serves as the official record of her passing.
