Updated on January 21, 2022
Dogs have been a part of the White House since George Washington was in office. In fact, Washington had several dogs during his tenure, including a Welsh Corgi named Nelson. Since then, US presidents have come to rely on their furry friends as companions and confidants. Here is a look at some of the most notable presidential pets throughout history!
Franklin D. Roosevelt was the first president to have a dog in the White House since Washington. His Scottish Terrier, Fala, became well-known to the American public and even starred in his own movie!
John F Kennedy‘s children loved their Welsh Corgi named Pushinka. The First Lady also had a horse named Macaroni.
Richard Nixon was the first president to have a dog named Checkers. The cocker spaniel became famous for his role in the “Checkers Speech” during Nixon’s 1952 run for Senate.
Ronald Reagan had two dogs while he was in office – a Bouvier des Flandres named Lucky and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Rex.
George H.W. Bush had a Springer Spaniel named Millie and a Scottish Terrier named Barney. The two dogs became famous for their roles in the White House, with Millie even writing a book!
Bill Clinton‘s family loved their chocolate Labrador Retriever, Buddy. The dog was often photographed playing with Clinton’s daughter, Chelsea.
George W. Bush had two Scottish Terriers named Barney and Miss Beazley. The dogs were often seen accompanying the president on his travels around the world.
Barack Obama also loved his dogs, a Portuguese Water Dog named Bo and a Belgian Malinois named Sunny. The dogs were often photographed playing on the White House lawn.
It’s clear that presidential pets have become an American tradition! Whether they’re providing moral support during tough times or just serving as loyal companions, these furry friends always make the White House feel like a home. We can’t wait to see who the next president’s pet will be!
Do you have any questions about presidential pets? Let us know in the comments! And don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family!
Do you love dogs? So does Janice Rowe! She is a dog lover who has made it her mission to help the community learn about and care for dogs. She volunteers at animal shelters, educates people about responsible pet ownership, and helps find homes for adoptable animals. She also works with local law enforcement to track down irresponsible dog owners and ensure that their pets are properly cared for. Thanks to Janice’s dedication, the community is a safer place for both people and animals.