September 23, 2026
The Bark Blog | Four Paws Place
Paws for President! 🐶🇺🇸
Move over, politicians! September 23 is Dogs in Politics Day, and at Four Paws Place, we’re rolling out the red carpet for some of the most beloved four-legged residents in American political history.
From the White House lawn to presidential photo opportunities, dogs have shared the spotlight with America’s leaders for generations. These furry companions remind us that, regardless of political affiliation, there’s one thing many Americans can agree on: dogs have a special way of bringing people together!
Today, we’re celebrating the presidential pups that made history, the joy of pet companionship, and a very special Cocker Spaniel who inspired this unusual holiday.
How Dogs in Politics Day Began
Did you know that Dogs in Politics Day, also known as National Checkers Day, commemorates a famous moment in American political history?
On September 23, 1952, then-vice-presidential candidate Richard Nixon delivered a televised speech addressing controversy over a political expense fund. During the speech, he spoke about Checkers, a black-and-white Cocker Spaniel given to his family as a gift.
Nixon explained that his daughters adored Checkers and that the family intended to keep their beloved dog. The address became known as the Checkers Speech, giving this furry family member a lasting place in political history.
Miller Center
Here at Four Paws Place, this story has a particularly special meaning. Our very own Rusty, the beloved brown Cocker Spaniel who inspired our boutique, would certainly give Checkers four paws up!
Meet Some of America’s Famous First Dogs
Fala — The Presidential Terrier
President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Scottish Terrier, Fala, became one of America’s most recognizable presidential pets. He accompanied the president on trips and appeared in photographs with him, becoming part of the Roosevelt family’s public life.
Barney — The White House Movie Star
President George W. Bush’s Scottish Terrier, Barney, became a holiday celebrity through the White House’s Barney Cam videos. He gave Americans a playful, dog’s-eye view of life inside the presidential residence.
Bo and Sunny — The First Dogs of Fun
The Obama family’s Portuguese Water Dogs, Bo and Sunny, captured hearts with their playful personalities and fluffy coats. From romping across the White House lawn to appearing at holiday celebrations, these pups became familiar faces during President Barack Obama’s administration.
Commander — A German Shepherd in Washington
Commander joined President Joe Biden’s family at the White House in 2021. His time there also highlighted the importance of appropriate training, supervision and managing a dog’s environment after reported biting incidents led to his relocation in 2023.
These famous dogs show how animals can become part of the public stories of the families they live with, even when those families occupy the highest office in the country.
We also remember Bo and Sunny with affection. Bo passed away in 2021, and the Obama family announced Sunny’s passing in September 2026. Their many White House adventures remain part of presidential pet history.
Rusty for President: A Paw-sitively Wonderful Campaign!
At Four Paws Place, our beloved Rusty had a few ideas for a doggone wonderful world. If dogs ran for office, we imagine his campaign promises would include more belly rubs, longer walks, unlimited squeaky toys, extra playtime and a birthday celebration for every pup!
His campaign slogan would have been “A Treat in Every Bowl and a Toy in Every Home!”
Of course, Rusty believed every pup deserves a loving family, a comfortable bed and plenty of opportunities to play.
Celebrate Dogs in Politics Day With Four Paws Place
You don’t have to live at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue to give your dog presidential treatment!
Dress your pup in a patriotic outfit, spoil them with a new toy or throw a little presidential puppy party. And for those extra-special members of your family, why not celebrate with a delicious dog-friendly birthday cake?
At Four Paws Place , we believe every dog deserves to be treated like a VIP — a Very Important Pup!
Happy Dogs in Politics Day froM THE Four Paws Place family! Whether your pup is a future First Dog or the president of your living room, today is all about celebrating the unconditional love, loyalty and companionship our furry friends bring into our lives.
Shop for your Very Important Pup at www.fourpawsplace.com .
