They may be the most famous dogs in America right now, but Champ and Major Biden can’t just do whatever they please.
The adorable German Shepherds, who moved into the White House shortly after President Biden’s Inauguration Ceremony, are already expected to respect their plush new surroundings.
In a recent interview with People Magazine, President Biden and Dr. Jill opened up about their canine pets - and revealed the one rule they must follow.
Despite sharing the same breed, Champ adheres to authority more easily than the younger Major. Now aged 14, he’s about 78 in dog years and doesn’t have as much energy as he used to. He’s also well trained, having spent his puppy days in the political bubble of Washington DC.
“He was extremely well-trained by the Canine Corps and he thinks he's Secret Service,” President Biden said.
Major, on the other hand, requires a little more discipline.
The rescue dog, who had been left in a shelter after his carer couldn’t afford his medical treatment, was adopted by the Biden family in 2018. While he’s far from mischievous, the spirited hound loves to jump and play - something that could potentially damage the White House’s ornate decor.
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“Major, who is a big, little dog, is about a year-and-half-old and the only rule Jill has and he follows it: do not get up on the furniture,” said President Biden.
This includes everything from chairs to beds, with one special exemption. The dogs are allowed to catch some sleep in the human beds when the Biden granddaughters stay over, as an occasional treat.
Luckily, the First Dogs of the US have plenty of space to let loose if they’re ever feeling a bit frisky. The White House grounds include two sprawling green lawns for the furry pets to explore (as well as a vegetable garden to avoid!)
The President and Dr. Jill aren’t too worried though about their dogs’ behavior though.
“They're really good dogs," Jill said.
This sentiment was backed up by President Biden, who added, “We trained them well from the beginning.”
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