President Biden’s family dog, Commander, has been involved in a series of biting incidents, according to newly released documents obtained by Digital. The German shepherd reportedly attacked Secret Service personnel on at least 24 occasions between October 2022 and July 2023. The incidents took place in various locations, including the White House, Wilmington, Delaware, Camp David, and Biden’s beach house in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.
One incident, documented in the reports, involved Commander biting an agent’s arm as the president and the dog were entering the Palm Room through the West Colonnade. The dog’s aggressive behavior continued to escalate, with incidents occurring throughout 2022 and 2023. On December 23, 2022, Commander attacked a staff member on the left forearm, but luckily, no marks were left due to multiple layers of clothing. Another incident on June 11, 2023, resulted in an agent being bitten on the chest, tearing his shirt and leaving two small lacerations.
The Secret Service sent emails to staff members, seeking to document all altercations with the first dog. The emails also provided guidance on how to deal with Commander’s aggressive behavior, emphasizing the need to give the dog plenty of room and ensure personal safety.
In July 2023, Commander attacked an agent at the Biden’s beach house in Rehoboth Beach. The agent suffered a severe deep open wound on the left forearm, requiring six stitches and antibiotics for the wound. As a result of these incidents, Commander was ultimately removed from the White House campus in September 2023.
The U.S. Secret Service has taken these incidents seriously, treating them as workplace injuries and documenting them according to guidelines. The agency has stated that it works continuously with all applicable entities to minimize any adverse impacts from family pets.
According to Elizabeth Alexander, a spokesperson for the first lady, the Bidens deeply care about the safety of those who work at the White House. Despite efforts to train and leash Commander, it became clear that the White House environment was not suitable for the dog. Since the fall, Commander has been living with other family members.
This is not the first time the Bidens have had issues with their dogs. Their previous dog, Major, also displayed aggressive behavior, including biting Secret Service and White House staff. Major was eventually sent to live with friends in Delaware.
The incidents involving Commander raise concerns about the safety and well-being of Secret Service personnel and highlight the challenges of operating in an environment that includes family pets. The Secret Service will continue to work towards minimizing any potential risks in the future.
