Rex the White House Dog: Life with the Reagans
From the moment he arrived during the Christmas season, Rex became a beloved fixture of the Reagan administration. Residing in the White House until Ronald Reagan left office in 1989, Rex was more than just a pet; he was a high-profile resident who captured the public's imagination and influenced the popularity of his breed across America.
A Life of Luxury and High Profile
Rex's time in the executive mansion was marked by unique perks and occasional medical dramas. He once made national headlines when he underwent a tonsillectomy—the surgical removal of the tonsils—at an undisclosed veterinary hospital.
His living arrangements were equally extraordinary. The Washington Children's Museum commissioned a lavishly decorated doghouse for Rex, designed by Theo Hayes. This miniature estate featured red window draperies and framed portraits of Ronald and Nancy Reagan. The structure was so prestigious that actress Zsa Zsa Gabor reportedly conducted its official dedication ceremony.
Behavior and Presidential Life
Maintaining a presidential image was a priority for the administration. Nackey Loeb, wife of publisher William Loeb III, suggested that the Reagans hire a professional dog trainer. Her concern was that Rex pulling Nancy Reagan around in front of the press could negatively impact her public image.
President Reagan, however, defended his pet's enthusiasm. He explained that Rex was young and became particularly excited by the arrival of helicopters on the White House lawn. According to the President, Rex's excitement was so great that "he believes Marine One is his personal dog basket." Despite this energy, Rex was generally regarded as better behaved and calmer than his predecessor, Lucky, who was notorious for dragging Nancy Reagan across the lawn.
The Mystery of the Lincoln Bedroom
While Rex was comfortable in most of the White House, he reportedly harbored a strong dislike for the Lincoln Bedroom. This room is often thought to be haunted by the ghost of Abraham Lincoln. Rex would frequently refuse to enter the space, choosing instead to stand in the doorway and bark.
Key Facts
- Residency: Lived in the White House from Christmas until 1989.
- Medical History: Underwent a tonsillectomy at a private veterinary hospital.
- Custom Home: Lived in a designer doghouse featuring portraits of the Reagans.
- Temperament: Considered calmer than the previous White House dog, Lucky.
- Legacy: Contributed to the sudden popularization of his breed in the United States.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration of Stay | Christmas to 1989 |
| Notable Designer | Theo Hayes (Doghouse) |
| Key Rivalry | Compared favorably to Lucky |
| Avoided Location | The Lincoln Bedroom |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed Rex's doghouse?
The doghouse was designed by Theo Hayes and built by the Washington Children's Museum.
How did Rex react to Marine One?
Rex became very excited when helicopters landed on the lawn, leading President Reagan to joke that the dog viewed Marine One as his personal dog basket.
Why did Rex avoid the Lincoln Bedroom?
It is reported that Rex disliked the room, which is believed by some to be haunted by the ghost of Abraham Lincoln; he would often bark from the doorway rather than enter.
Was Rex considered well-behaved?
Yes, while Nackey Loeb suggested a trainer to protect Nancy Reagan's image, Rex was generally seen as calmer and better behaved than the previous dog, Lucky.
What impact did Rex have on his breed?
Due to his high-profile life in the White House, there was a sudden increase in the popularity of his breed in America following the Reagan presidency.