This week, the world watches closely as the next US President is unveiled, but attention isn’t just on policy. Many are curious if a furry friend will join them in the White House.
After all, presidential pets have often played a unique role in the First Family.
Presidential pooches
Recent U.S. presidents have shown different views on dogs.
Donald Trump, not a natural dog lover according to ex-wife Ivana, was the first president in decades without a White House dog. Still, he supported animal welfare, signing the Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act in 2019. However, while he may not have had a pup himself, his daughter Ivanka was the proud owner of Winter while her father lived in the White House.
In contrast, Joe Biden brought Champ, Major, and later Commander, though Commander, a German Shepherd, was eventually removed for several biting incidents. Biden’s love for dogs has endeared him to many animal lovers, rekindling a tradition of presidential pets.
Past presidents have long understood the political charm of a furry friend. Herbert Hoover’s popularity soared when he posed with his Belgian Shepherd, King Tut, while Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Scottish Terrier, Fala, became a national icon. Bill Clinton's best friend during his time as President was Buddy the chocolate Labrador. Clinton even gave Buddy a special mention during his 1997 end-of-year speech.
Even John F. Kennedy filled the White House with pets, from dogs to ponies.
White House pups
However, while Trump may not be a dog lover, that doesn't necessarily mean there won't be a pup entering the White House soon. Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, is also an enthusiastic dog lover. She frequently shares photos of her dog, Harper, and advocates for pet-friendly workplaces. If she wins, Harper could join the ranks of beloved presidential dogs like Obama’s Portuguese Water Dogs, Bo and Sunny, and George W. Bush’s Scottish Terrier, Barney.
As election day nears, dog-loving voters may be swayed by Harris’s warmth for animals or Trump’s legislative support for animal rights. The bond between presidents and pets remains a powerful symbol of loyalty and companionship in American politics. Whether we see a dog enter the White House depends on what happens at the Ballot box. Watch this space!
