As vice president, Richard Nixon countered critics who claimed he misappropriated funds for personal expenses. He did admit that his dog Checkers was a political gift and that the Nixon family was going to keep her. The personal element of his words was powerfully touching, and the speech is believed by many to have saved Nixon’s political career.

Hand crafted and hand painted, this lovely miniature figurine version of Checkers captures the pup’s fine details. It makes the perfect gift and is a delightful addition to any collection.

The White House has been the home not just to the Presidents and the First Families, but also to all their family pets. Presidential pets have included barnyard animals, exotic birds, bears, alligators, domesticated cats, and many, many dogs. From FDR's Fala and the Bushes' Barney to the Obamas' Bo and Sunny, some of these pets have themselves become household names across America.