Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama are mourning the death of their family dog, Sunny. Sunny, a Portuguese water dog, joined the Obama family at the White House in 2013, during their second term.
Barack Obama announced Sunny's passing on Wednesday, describing her as "pretty much perfect." He shared memories of Sunny in an announcement also shared by Michelle Obama. Sunny was one of two Portuguese water dogs who lived with the Obamas during their eight years in the White House, alongside Bo, a black-and-white male who was gifted to the family in 2009. Bo died in 2021.
The dogs were a frequent presence during the Obamas' time in Washington, D.C., often attending children's events. Their images were also incorporated into White House holiday decorations and cookies.
Photos shared by the former president showed Sunny and Bo greeting Pope Francis in the Oval Office in 2015, as well as Sunny running on the White House grounds, lounging and sitting on a beach. Sunny was noted for her all-black coat, distinguishing her from Bo. Obama described her as athletic, full of boundless energy, and affectionate towards the children, despite occasional interruptions to her naps.
"But as far as our family was concerned, she was pretty much perfect, and 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," Barack Obama wrote. "We will miss her terribly, and imagine she’s with her big brother now, making sure he’s okay."