Obama family dog Sunny dies: ‘a force of nature’

Former President Barack Obama announced on Wednesday that his family's 13-year-old Portuguese water dog, Sunny, had passed away. In a heartfelt social media post, Obama called Sunny a cherished member of the family and expressed that their loss would be deeply felt. The post, shared by Michelle Obama, garnered over 2 million views within three hours. The Obama family adopted Sunny in 2013 during the former president's second term.

Sunny's presence in the household was immediate and transformative. The Obamas described her as loyal, sweet, and always ready for adventure. Unlike her companion Bo, Sunny was more interested in joining in on the fun rather than being won over with treats. Obama noted the contrast between Bo and Sunny's personalities, with Bo being more responsive to treats and Sunny preferring energetic play and belly rubs.

Sunny's athletic and energetic nature was well-documented, as she and Bo were known for their frequent runs around the White House lawn. The Obamas also highlighted Sunny's quirks, including her ironic aversion to getting wet. Her daughters, Sasha and Malia, who were 12 and 14 when Sunny joined the family, formed a close bond with the dog despite her occasional annoyance with their antics.

Sunny's impact extended beyond the family, as she also became an integral part of the White House staff. She often accompanied the team, assisting them in their duties. Her death comes more than five years after the tragic loss of Bo, who succumbed to cancer in 2021 at the age of 12. Bo had been part of the Obamas' family since shortly after Barack Obama's first inauguration in 2009.

The Obamas adopted Bo as part of a campaign promise to their daughters, Malia and Sasha. Sunny, who joined the family a few years later, quickly became known as the first dog alongside Bo by the press.