President Biden, Dr. Jill Biden Mourn Loss Of ’Loving Companion’ Champ

It’s a sad day in the White House for President Joe Biden and First Lady, Dr. Jill Biden, as the couple mourns the loss of their 13-year-old German Shepherd, Champ.

Both took to their social media accounts to share a statement about the news, with the President referring to his dog as a “loving companion” he would miss, while his wife called him a “sweet, good boy.”

“Our hearts are heavy today as we let you all know that our beloved German Shepherd, Champ, passed away peacefully at home. He was our constant, cherished companion during the last 13 years and was adored by the entire Biden family,” the statement read. “Even as Champ’s strength waned in his last months, when he came into a room, he would immediately pull himself up, his tail always wagging, and nuzzle us for an ear scratch or a belly rub. Wherever we were, he wanted to be, and everything was instantly better when he was next to us.”

Champ and Major were the first dogs back in the White House since the Obama Administration, and Champ had been purchased by the then-Vice President for his wife. He was later joined by Major, 3, who became the first rescue dog to live in the White House after the Biden family moved in this year.

Many quickly took to social media to send their condolences to the President over the loss, one that many related to after losing their own pets at various points in their lives.

The President’s dogs have made headlines a few times since January, with Major specifically singled out after incidents where he reportedly bit two different employees. He has since undergone training to help him adjust to life in his new home.

The news also comes just over one month after the Obama family was also forced to say goodbye to their beloved dog, Bo, who died on May 8. At the time, Dr. Biden sent her condolences to the family, noting the presence Bo had when he was alive.