Former US President Barack Obama has shared a heartfelt tribute after his family lost Sunny, the Portuguese Water Dog who had been part of their lives for 13 years.
Obama announced Sunny’s death in an emotional social media post, describing her as a cherished member of the family and remembering the energy and personality that made her special to the Obamas.
Sunny joined the Obama family at the White House
According to Obama, the family welcomed Sunny at the beginning of his second term in the White House.
She quickly became close to everyone, including the family’s first dog, Bo, who had already become a familiar face during Obama’s presidency.
Unlike Bo, who could easily be won over with a treat, Sunny was described as energetic and playful.
Obama recalled how she would leap over the hedges on the White House’s South Lawn while chasing squirrels, birds, and anything else that caught her attention.
“She was a force of nature,” Obama wrote, highlighting the boundless energy that became one of her defining characteristics.
A dog with plenty of personality
Sunny’s personality extended beyond her athletic side.
Obama said she preferred running around and playing with the family to receiving treats. She also enjoyed having her belly rubbed and would happily roll around on the floor with them.
She was particularly fond of Obama’s daughters and the family’s staff, often following members of the team around as they worked.
She was also fiercely protective of Bo, whom Obama said she seemed to think needed a little extra supervision.
The former president also remembered some of Sunny’s more amusing habits.
Despite being a Portuguese Water Dog, she hated getting wet. She was also a loud and sloppy drinker and, apart from Bo, preferred the company of people over other dogs.
Obama says family will miss her terribly
Despite her quirks, Obama described Sunny as “pretty much perfect” to their family.
He said she remained loyal, sweet, and adventurous throughout her life, adding that she was still fiery and beautiful until the end.
Obama concluded his tribute by imagining Sunny reunited with Bo, who died in 2021.
“We will miss her terribly,” he wrote, adding that he imagined Sunny was now with her “big brother,” making sure he was okay.
The emotional post prompted an outpouring of condolences, with many followers sharing messages of sympathy and remembering their own experiences of losing beloved pets.
“Losing them is so incredibly hard. Sending warm hugs,” one person wrote, while another reminded the Obama family that “they are family always.”
