Former U.S. President Barack Obama has shared an emotional tribute following the death of his beloved dog, Sunny, at the age of 13.

Sunny, a Portuguese Water Dog, became part of the Obama family during his second presidential term in 2013. She joined Bo, the family’s first dog, who sadly passed away from cancer in 2021.

In a heartfelt message posted on X, formerly Twitter, Obama announced that his family had lost a deeply treasured companion.

He recalled how Sunny immediately won everyone’s hearts when she arrived at the White House, including Bo’s. Unlike her calmer companion, Sunny was bursting with energy and had an adventurous personality.

Obama fondly remembered watching her race across the White House grounds, effortlessly jumping over hedges while chasing squirrels, birds, and practically anything that caught her attention.

While Bo could usually be persuaded with a tasty treat, Sunny preferred human interaction. She loved playing, running around with family members, rolling on the floor, and receiving endless belly rubs.

Sunny also shared a special bond with Obama’s daughters, Malia and Sasha. Even when the girls interrupted her naps, she remained incredibly affectionate toward them.

Her loving nature extended beyond the family. According to Obama, Sunny frequently followed White House staff members around as they worked, almost as though she wanted to help.

She was also remarkably protective of Bo, seemingly aware that her older companion was not always as attentive or energetic as she was.

Obama affectionately described Sunny as a dog who enjoyed human company more than the company of other animals. He also remembered her funny habits, including the noisy and messy way she drank water.

Despite these little quirks, Sunny was everything the family could have wished for in a companion.

For 13 years, she brought joy, laughter, comfort, and unconditional love into their lives. Even as she grew older, her adventurous spirit and affectionate personality never faded.

Obama ended his tribute by expressing how deeply the family would miss her, sharing his comforting hope that Sunny had reunited with Bo and was once again watching over her beloved companion.

The emotional announcement, also shared on Instagram by Barack and Michelle Obama, prompted an outpouring of sympathy from supporters and fellow dog lovers.

Many people offered condolences and shared touching messages celebrating Sunny’s life. Others reflected on the special bond between pets and their families, reminding the Obamas that the love Sunny had given them would never be forgotten.

Sunny’s passing came five years after the family said goodbye to Bo, their first Portuguese Water Dog.

Bo had originally joined the family as a gift for Malia and Sasha shortly after they moved into the White House.

Following his death in 2021, Michelle Obama spoke about how profoundly he had shaped their family life, bringing them more happiness and companionship than they could ever have imagined.

She also explained that their dogs had provided comfort when their daughters left home for college, helping Barack and Michelle adjust to a quieter household.

Now, with both Bo and Sunny gone, the Obama family has said farewell to two loyal companions who shared some of the most memorable chapters of their lives.

Although Sunny’s passing marks the end of an unforgettable 13-year journey, the affection, laughter, and cherished memories she leaves behind will remain with the family forever.