Former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama are mourning Sunny, the Portuguese water dog who joined their family during Obama’s second term in the White House. Obama announced Sunny’s death Wednesday, writing on X that the family had lost “a cherished member of our family.” Sunny was 1 year old when the Obamas welcomed her in 2013 and remained with them for 13 years. In a tribute, Obama described Sunny as energetic, athletic and “pretty much perfect.” He recalled her leaping over hedges on the White House’s South Lawn while chasing squirrels, birds and other moving targets. Sunny shared the White House years with Bo, the family’s first Portuguese water dog. Obama said the two dogs quickly became attached to one another, and that Sunny was especially protective of Bo. The dogs frequently appeared at public events and in the Obamas’ annual holiday cards. Michelle Obama said in 2015 that the dogs were so popular they had their own official White House schedules, with staff members submitting requests for appearances and photographs. Obama also remembered Sunny’s quirks. She preferred people to other dogs, drank loudly and messily, and disliked getting wet despite being a Portuguese water dog. She enjoyed running, playing on the floor and having her belly rubbed, he said. The former president said Sunny remained loyal, affectionate and ready for adventure until the end of her life. He added that the family imagines she is now with Bo, “making sure he’s okay.”