By Era
Travel through two centuries of White House pets, from the founding era to today.
Founding Era
1789–1825 · From Washington to Monroe. The early republic, when presidents were founders and the White House was still being built.
The Early Republic
1809–1837 · Madison through Jackson. A growing nation, westward expansion, and some very unusual pets.
The Progressive Era
1901–1921 · Roosevelt through Wilson. A time of reform, industry, and the most pet-filled White House in history.
The Roaring Twenties
1921–1929 · Harding, Coolidge, and Hoover. Jazz, prosperity, and Calvin Coolidge's personal zoo.
Depression & World War II
1929–1945 · Hoover through FDR. Hard times, a world war, and a little Scottish terrier named Fala who kept the president company.
The Cold War Era
1945–1991 · Truman through George H.W. Bush. A divided world, space race, and plenty of presidential pets.
The Modern Era
1991–2025 · Clinton through today. The era of the internet, celebrity pets, and Socks the cat.