Sept. 23: National Checkers Day (also known as Dogs in Politics Day)

Sutter Brown


On National Checkers Day (also known as Dogs in Politics Day), we are recognizing the dogs of politicians. They are wonderful additions to our government and have had huge impacts in our politics and in the press. Like any other pup, they are loving, sweet, and adorable dogs that endlessly love their owners.

Here are a few stories about these dogs:


Checkers was a black and white Cocker Spaniel given to Nixon in 1952. Nixon was under intense scrutiny during that time because of his campaign. During this time, he went to Los Angeles to defend himself on live television. There, he said he would only keep one gift that he received even if he was taken off the ticket. That gift was Checkers.

From there people saw Nixon as a more relatable and interesting candidate and later he went on to gain the presidency. Since then, presidents and politicians have always been happy to introduce their pooch to the public.

Sutter Brown

This stumpy little constituent is one of the most famous politician’s pets that is not owned be a president. Sutter Brown is a small, fawn Welsh Corgi owned by California’s Governor Jerry Brown. He is a sweet, funny, and friendly pup that is always happy to kiss babies and shake paws with his fans. Sutter was given to Brown and his wife after he won the 2010 California governor election. Now, he can be found napping in Brown’s office or trotting around in the great outdoors.

Sunny and Bo

Sunny and Bo became part of the Obama family while they were in the White House. Sunny and Bo are male and female sibling Portuguese Water Dogs that were bred by the president of the Humane Society of the United States. They are sweet, intelligent, and utterly adorable pups that could often be found romping over the White House lawn or sniffing in the vegetable gardens. Now, they’re happily enjoying civilian life with their family.

If you have decided that a Corgi, Portuguese Water Dog, or Cocker Spaniel is right for you, be sure to find a reputable and responsible breeder or shelter. They will be able to find the perfect pup for you and will teach you to train your dog so you and your furry friend can live happily ever after.