Barack and Michelle Obama are mourning the death of their beloved dog Bo, who has died aged 12 after a battle with cancer.
The former US President and his wife announced the heartbreaking news on Saturday (local time).
"Today our family lost a true friend and a loyal companion," Barack wrote on Facebook.
"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 everything 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.
"He was exactly what we needed and more than we ever expected. We will miss him dearly."
During the campaign trail, the Obamas had promised their daughters Malia and Sasha a puppy after the election.
"Bo was supposed to be a companion for the girl. We had no idea how much he would mean to all of us," Michelle said.
Bo, a male Portuguese water dog, joined the Obama family in April 2009.
He was just six months old when he was gifted to the family by the late Senator Ted Kennedy, a key supporter of Obama's 2008 presidential campaign.
"As a family, we will miss Bo dearly. But we are thankful that he lived such a joyful life full of snuggles, games of fetch, and evenings spent lying on the couch," Michelle said.
"We also know we weren't the only ones who cared for Bo and are grateful for all 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."
