Most Popular Presidential Dogs in U.S. History

Most Popular Presidential Dogs in U.S. History

The White House has been home to many presidential pets over the years.  Not just dogs, but birds, pigs, roosters, and even raccoons!  However, dogs are the most popular animals in White House history.  In fact, dogs have consistently lived in the White House throughout the 1900s and well into the 21st century.  We have compiled a list of some of the most famous dogs that have roamed the White House.

 

  • Sweet Lips, Scentwell, and Vulcan – Dogs of George Washington (President from 1789 – 1797) These American Foxhounds helped George Washington hunt foxes.  They are extremely speedy, intelligent, and have a strong sense of smell.  They were the perfect fit for the job!
  • Fido – Dog of Abraham Lincoln (President from 1861 – 1865) This mixed breed was actually sent to live with a friend because he had a tough time adjusting to the frequent visitors at the White House.  However, during his tenure, he enjoyed long walks and running errands.
  • Fala – Dog of Franklin D. Roosevelt (President from 1933 – 1945) Franklin D. Roosevelt actually had eight dogs while serving in the White House!  His Scottish Terrier, Fala, was the most famous by far.  There is actually a statue of Fala and Franklin D. Roosevelt at the FDR Memorial in Washington D.C..
  • Lucky – Dog of Ronald Reagan (President from 1981 – 1989) The Regans received Lucky as a gift.  Lucky was a Bouvier des Flandres breed, a much larger breed that required a lot of attention and exercise.
  • Bo – Dog of Barack Obama (President from 2009 – 2017) This Portuguese Water Dog traveled the world with the First Family on Air Force One and has met many world leaders.  Bo also loved to join Michelle Obama at her children’s book readings.  People absolutely loved him!

This article goes to show how much of an impact our four-legged friends have on us!  Being parented by the First Family is quite an honor, but these dogs were very deserving of the opportunity