Barack and Michelle Obama have publicly announced the death of their beloved pet Sunny — a Portuguese Water Dog who became part of the family during the American leader's second presidential term. The couple published a joint farewell message on Instagram, accompanied by a series of photos of Sunny from different years. "Yesterday we lost a dear member of our family," they wrote, emphasizing that the four-legged companion had been by the side of Barack, Michelle, Malia and Sasha for more than 13 years.
How Sunny came to the White House
According to the family, Sunny arrived at the Obamas' home in 2013, when Barack Obama began his second presidential term. She joined Bo — the family's first dog, who was also a Portuguese Water Dog. As the couple recalls, all members of the family, including Bo, immediately fell in love with the new addition, and from then on she accompanied them both in the White House and after the end of the presidential term.
Temperament and funny habits
In their farewell message, the Obamas describe Sunny as a very active and energetic dog. In the White House, they say, she would leap over the hedges on the South Lawn, chasing squirrels, birds and anything that moved. At the same time, she had one comical quirk: despite belonging to the Portuguese Water Dog breed, Sunny did not like water. The family also notes that the dog loved spending time with people and was especially devoted to the family.
Sunny and Bo: the bond between two dogs
Bo held a special place in Sunny's life. The Obamas' first dog passed away in May 2021 after a battle with cancer. After his death, Sunny remained the family's main pet. In their farewell post, the couple wrote that they would miss Sunny terribly and "picture her now with her older brother, making sure he is okay."
Sunny in the official life of the White House
During Barack Obama's presidency, Sunny and Bo regularly appeared in official White House photos, took part in holiday events and accompanied the family members. The dog could be seen next to the Obama daughters — Malia and Sasha — as well as at the traditional Easter and Christmas events at the residence. One of the most famous shots is a photograph in which Barack and Michelle Obama, together with Pope Francis, pet Sunny during the pontiff's visit to the White House.
Farewell to a "dear member of the family"
In the final part of their message, the Obamas call Sunny loyal, affectionate and always ready for new adventures, noting that she remained energetic until her last days. Thus, the family said goodbye to one of its most cherished "members," who had been by their side in the most important moments of their lives for more than 13 years.
