Former President Barack Obama announced Wednesday, September 15, the passing of Sunny, the family’s Portuguese water dog. Sunny, who spent 13 years with the Obama family, including their time in the White House, was a cherished companion and public figure. Her death marks another period of grief for the family, who previously lost their first dog, Bo, in May 2021.
"Yesterday, we lost a cherished member of our family." Barack Obama, Former President of the United States.
Sunny joined the Obama family in August 2013, during the start of President Obama’s second term. She was brought into the family as a companion for Bo, who had arrived at the White House in April 2009. Both dogs quickly became recognizable figures, frequently appearing at White House events, holiday celebrations, and other public functions, endearing themselves to the American public and international visitors alike.
In a tribute posted on social media, former President Obama remembered Sunny with warmth and affection. “Yesterday, we lost a cherished member of our family,” he wrote, reflecting on the joy Sunny brought into their lives. He recalled that the family, including Bo, "immediately fell in love" with Sunny upon her arrival. Obama described Sunny as an energetic and athletic dog, often keeping the family moving with her playful demeanor. He recounted how she would jump over hedges on the White House South Lawn, enthusiastically pursuing squirrels and birds.
Sunny's personality was distinct from Bo's, Obama noted. While Bo could often be won over with a treat, Sunny preferred human interaction and activity. She particularly enjoyed running around with family members, rolling on the floor, and receiving belly rubs. Her bond with Obama’s daughters, Malia and Sasha, was also strong, and she frequently followed White House employees during their work. Obama highlighted her fiercely protective nature towards Bo, stating, "She was fiercely protective of Bo, who she rightly sensed wasn’t always as alert and attentive as she was."
The popularity of Bo and Sunny grew to such an extent that their public appearances often required formal organization through the White House. Michelle Obama, in 2015, mentioned receiving requests for the dogs’ schedules and having to approve their appearances due to the frequent desire of visitors to meet and photograph them. This level of public interest underscored the unique role these pets played in the public eye.
Despite being a Portuguese Water Dog, a breed known for its affinity for water, Sunny had an unusual dislike for getting wet, a characteristic Obama fondly remembered. "She had her eccentricities: other than Bo, she preferred people to dogs; she was a loud and sloppy drinker; and despite being a Portuguese Water Dog, she hated getting wet," he shared. These quirks only added to her charm and made her a more beloved member of the family.
The Obama family first experienced the loss of a beloved pet in May 2021 when Bo passed away after a battle with cancer. Both Barack and Michelle Obama issued tributes at that time, remembering Bo as a constant and comforting presence throughout their years in Washington and beyond. Sunny remained with the family for another five years, continuing to bring companionship and joy.
According to reports from People and Trending Politics, the Obamas announced Sunny's death following her passing on September 15. She had remained an integral part of the family, from her early days in the White House to the era of the Obama Presidential Center. Former President Obama affirmed that Sunny maintained her energetic and affectionate spirit until the very end of her life.
In his concluding remarks, Obama reflected on Sunny's enduring loyalty and spirit. "But as far as our family was concerned, she was pretty much perfect, and for 13 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," he wrote. He ended his tribute by imagining Sunny reunited with her brother. "We will miss her terribly, and imagine she’s with her big brother now, making sure he’s okay."
