Commander, Biden's dog, has bitten Secret Service agents at least 24 times

Newly released documents reveal that President Joe Biden's dog, Commander, bit US Secret Service agents on at least 24 occasions, causing significant disruptions for the presidential bodyguards.

According to Secret Service records, the German Shepherd's behavior necessitated a change in tactics, with agents advised to maintain ample distance from the dog.

These documents, obtained through Freedom of Information requests and subsequently posted online, are heavily redacted to safeguard the identities of Secret Service agents and the confidentiality of their security protocols.

Between October 2022 and July 2023, there were at least 24 reported biting incidents, resulting in injuries to Secret Service personnel on various parts of their bodies, including the wrist, forearm, elbow, waist, chest, thigh, and shoulder.

However, it's important to note that these records only account for incidents involving the Secret Service and may not encompass all biting occurrences related to Commander, as they do not include incidents involving other White House staff or individuals at Camp David in Maryland.

Commander departed the White House in October of the previous year, following an incident where a Secret Service agent required medical attention due to a severe bite.

In a separate incident in June, an agent sustained a "deep bite" on the forearm, requiring stitches. The presence of blood on the White House premises led to the temporary suspension of East Wing tours for 20 minutes, as documented.

In July, another agent received a bite to the hand, necessitating six stitches. The severity of the wound resulted in significant blood loss, as outlined in an email communication.

In response to these incidents, colleagues provided the injured agent with a "small care package," containing pain relievers, antibiotic ointment, pepper spray, a muzzle, and dog biscuits for safety precautions.

A senior agent, whose identity remains undisclosed, emphasized the need for creative approaches to ensure personal safety when protecting Mr. Biden and his family in the presence of Commander.

Despite efforts to address the issue through additional training, leashing, veterinary consultations, and behavioral analysis, Commander's behavior persisted, prompting the decision to rehome him with relatives in the autumn, according to a statement from First Lady Jill Biden's office.

Another dog owned by the Biden family, Major, had previously injured a Secret Service agent in 2021 and was subsequently relocated to Delaware.Biden's dog Commander's biting incidents prompt operational adjustments for Secret Service agents, highlighting challenges in White House pet management.