Bo, a Portuguese Water Dog, joined the Obama family in April 2009, fulfilling a campaign promise to Malia and Sasha. A second Portuguese Water Dog, Sunny, arrived in 2013.
The breed was chosen in part because Malia has allergies, and Portuguese Water Dogs are often described as a good fit for families with allergies.
Official Duties
Bo and Sunny greeted visitors, appeared at the White House Easter Egg Roll, and visited hospitals and schools with the First Lady.
Did You Know
Bo was a gift from Senator Ted Kennedy. He died in 2021, and the family shared a heartfelt tribute to their loyal companion.
Learn More
For primary sources, explore the Obama White House archives maintained by the National Archives, the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, and presidential history collections at your local library. Reading accounts from supporters and critics alike gives the fullest picture of any presidency.
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