Transportation Secretary Pete ButtigiegPete ButtigiegButtigieg says he ‘got along pretty well’ with Major Biden The Hill’s Morning Report – Biden’s infrastructure plan triggers definition debate Battle lines drawn on Biden’s infrastructure plan MORE says he gets along “just fine” with President BidenJoe BidenIran espionage-linked ship attacked at sea Biden exceeds expectations on vaccines — so far Jill Biden to visit Alabama with actress Jennifer Garner MORE‘s dog Major, despite the less-than-pristine reputation of the furry first family member.
“First time I went in for an Oval Office meeting, Major was there and said a quick hello. We got along pretty well,” Buttigieg said in an interview with TMZ’s Harvey Levin released Tuesday.
“I know there’ve been some stories about him,” Buttigieg said. “But my interactions with him have been great,” he insisted.
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The Bidens’ 3-year-old German Shepherd — believed to be the first shelter rescue dog to live in the White House — has made headlines in recent months following multiple reported biting incidents.
Last month, the White House told CNN that Major “nipped someone on a walk” while on the South Lawn at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. The incident came just weeks after another biting incident involving the canine, in which a White House staff member sustained minor injuries.
There was also a reported bathroom accident in the halls of the White House, but it was unclear if the perpetrator was Major or the Bidens’ older dog, Champ.
Biden has defended his pet, calling Major a “sweet” animal that was adjusting to a bustling household in Washington alongside unfamiliar faces among the staff and Secret Service details.
In his interview with Levin, Buttigieg, 39, laughed as he showed all his fingers to prove Major didn’t mistake him for some kibble.
“I’m all good,” he said. “No incidents.”
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The former South Bend, Ind., mayor said he even wants to have a doggie get-together with the high-profile pooch.
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“I haven’t yet had a chance to introduce him to Buddy and Truman, our dogs.”
—Updated at 6:18 p.m.