Bo, the Portuguese water dog who became a beloved member of the Obama family during their time in the White House, has sadly passed away at the age of 12. Bo battled cancer, as revealed by Michelle Obama on Instagram, leaving the family heartbroken. President Barack Obama described Bo as a “great friend and trusted companion.”

Bo’s presence brought joy and love into the Obama household for over a decade. Regardless of the ups and downs, he remained a constant source of comfort and loyalty. Through the chaos of living in the White House, Bo was a calm and collected presence, particularly around children.

Bo’s journey began in April 2009 when Massachusetts Senator Edward M. Kennedy and his wife Victoria gifted the young Obama girls, Malia and Sasha, a six-month-old dog. The children decided to name him Bo in honor of artist Bo Diddley and because of their relative’s cat with the same name. Instantly, Bo captured the attention of the nation’s media.

During the Trump administration, the White House was devoid of pets for the first time in decades. However, in January, President Biden reintroduced the tradition by welcoming his two German shepherds, Champ and Major, into the presidential residence. Major, in particular, made headlines recently for undergoing training following a few bite incidents.

Bo will be fondly remembered for his playful antics on the South Lawn, where he often entertained the White House press corps, barking during news conferences. He even received messages of sympathy from children across the country. Naren Aryal and Danny Moore even wrote a children’s book about him titled “Bo, America’s Commander in Leash.”

In 2013, another Portuguese water dog named Sunny was introduced to keep Bo company. But according to Mrs. Obama, Bo had a deeper significance to the family than just being a companion for their daughters. He brought a sense of comfort and familiarity to their lives, even during significant events like the pope’s visit and the traditional Easter egg roll on the South Lawn.

As Malia and Sasha left for college, Bo became a source of support for the Obamas as they adjusted to life as empty nesters. And during the pandemic, when the family was once again united under one roof, Bo was reportedly the happiest dog. Michelle Obama wrote on Instagram, “Everyone was back together under one roof, just like the day we brought him.”

Bo’s memory will forever live on as a symbol of love, loyalty, and joy within the Obama family and in the hearts of all who admired him.