He was a good boy, and the Obamas — along with the whole internet — will very much miss him.
On Saturday, Michelle and Barack Obama announced that their family dog, Bo, had died after being diagnosed with cancer.
“Today our family lost a true friend and loyal companion,” wrote former President Obama. “For more than a decade, Bo was a constant, gentle presence in our lives—happy to see us on our good days, our bad days, and everyday in between.”
He tolerated all the fuss that came with being in the White House, had a big bark but no bite, loved to jump in the pool in the summer, was unflappable with children, lived for scraps around the dinner table, and had great hair. pic.twitter.com/1x4VOMsLGR
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) May 8, 2021
This afternoon was a difficult one for our family. We said goodbye to our best friend—Bo—after a battle with cancer. We are grateful for the love you showed him over the years. Please hug the furry members of your family a little closer tonight—and give them a belly rub from us. pic.twitter.com/zOk3SPABsT
— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) May 8, 2021
White House reporters who’d met Bo in person, politicians, and those who’d only known the Portuguese water dog through photos shared their condolences, memories of the dog, and general sadness at the loss.
First Dogs Beat. Heartbreaking. @MichelleObama announced today their 12 year old Portuguese Water Dog, “Bo” died after a battle with cancer. This is my photo of “Bo” during one of his many WH walks. Loved by many. A good boy. pic.twitter.com/EEHyd1rQMx
— Kelly O’Donnell (@KellyO) May 8, 2021
We are so sorry for your loss. Our fur babies give us unconditional love. Bo will be with my Noodles over the Rainbow Bridge. ❤️
— Katie S. Phang (@KatiePhang) May 8, 2021
Is the fact that #Bo died crushing anyone else right now? My goodness.🥺
— Kristy Wesson (@kdwesson18) May 8, 2021
the news that bo died hit me harder than any other news this year
— Jay (@JtheBax) May 8, 2021
WHO WAS GONNA TELL ME THAT THE OBAMA’S DOG BO DIED WHAT
— raina ♡ is watching S19 🌟 (@buckblueberries) May 8, 2021
I am crying right now in public because Obama’s dog Bo died and I see my extended family today.
— Ellen(: (@callme_LN) May 8, 2021
Bo leaves behind a grieving family and a sad internet.