President Joe Biden Gets a New Puppy Named Commander; Rescue Dog Major Rehomed

The very cute puppy looks to be a German shepherd who loves tennis balls. Major, meanwhile, will live with family friends. By Austin Cannon Updated December 21, 2021 Advertisement Pin FB More Tweet Email Send Text Message Print
german shepherd puppy runs in grass with tennis ball in mouth Credit: @POTUS on Twitter

President Joe Biden has welcomed a new family member, a puppy named Commander. 

The Dog Dad in Chief posted a photo of the puppy, a German shepherd, to Twitter on Monday afternoon, shortly after CNN reported the new dog's arrival. 

"Welcome to the White House, Commander," the president('s social media aide) wrote. 

Commander will be the only canine at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. The Bidens' other German shepherd, Major, has spent most of his time living in Delaware after he endured some biting problems early this year, CNN reports. The first rescue dog to live in the White House won't return and will instead live with family friends.

Michael LaRosa, First Lady Jill Biden's press secretary, told CNN the Bidens talked with pet professionals—veterinarians, behaviorists, and trainers—and deliberated for months before arriving at the decision to rehome the young German shepherd.

Commander was a gift to the president from his brother and sister-in-law for his birthday in November, according to CNN. Commander joins the family about six months after the death of its elder German shepherd, Champ.

RELATED: Champ, Major Biden Return to White House

Commander sure looks like a good, cute boy who loves tennis balls. Plus: big ears! The youngin' was born in September and first arrived at the White House on Monday, per CNN.

But what about the cat? Earlier this year, the Bidens said they were planning to adopt a cat. About a year later, the female cat is on her way, CNN reporting that she will arrive at the White House in January after living in foster homes for the last several months.