He has to deal with an imploding economy, an electorate seething with discontent, rogue states which possess nuclear weapons and an oil spill that is turning into an ecological nightmare. But United States President Barack Obama recently found himself fighting to control yet another errant element -- Bo the beloved White House dog.
At the Congressional picnic on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington on Tuesday, the charismatic President was left red-faced when the Portuguese water dog refused to listen to his commands.
Bo decided to prove a point during the casual White House photo opportunity -- and tried to break free from the man considered to be the most powerful person on earth. Obama's leisurely walk with his dog turned into a full-fledged jog as he struggled to maintain his grip on the leash.
As a determined Bo almost dragged the President forward, First Lady Michelle Obama came out to help her husband. Together, the First Couple managed to hold on to Bo's leash and bring the enthusiastic dog under control.
Incidentally, Bo was chosen from among numerous dogs while the Obamas were looking for a dog for their daughters Malia and Sasha.
Image: US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama walk their dog Bo on the South Lawn at the White House | Photograph: Jim YOung/Reuters
© 2026