George Washington’s Dogs (and a Bo Slideshow)

As we commemorate the birthday of George Washington, we thought that we would take a look back at the first President’s barking buddies.

The father of our country was the proud pet parent to a passel of pooches, among them four Black and Tan Coonhounds with the spirit-themed sobriquets Drunkard, Taster, Tipler and Tipsy, and five French hounds.

Washington’s compassion for canines is still told in the tale of a fox terrier found by soldiers fighting in the Battle of Germantown in Pennsylvania. (Pet parents with animal-loving little ones may be interested in the children’s book, George Washington and the General’s Dog.) Although the companion of a British General, Washington refused to take part in separating his opposer from his four-legged friend, returning the dog with a note that read:

General Washington’s compliments to General Howe. He does himself the pleasure to return him a dog, which accidentally fell into his hands, and by the inscription on the Collar appears to belong to General Howe.

Although Washington was the nation’s first President, the first dogs to promenade on the grounds of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue were President John Adams’ two tail-waggers, Juno and a Rover whose name raised eyebrows even today, Satan.

Continuing the tradition of Presidential pets, Bo Obama has barked his way into the collective heart of the nation. In celebration of Presidents Day, here’s a slideshow presentation of America’s current First Fido:

To find out more about the pets of Presidents past and present:

• visit www.presidentialpetmuseum.com

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