Clintons' dog killed by car

Buddy was not popular with the Clinton's cat, Socks

Bill Clinton's beloved chocolate brown Labrador retriever, Buddy, has been killed by a car.

Bill Clinton named Buddy after his late uncle

According to the former president's spokeswoman, the accident happened on Wednesday near Mr Clinton's house in Chappaqua, New York, but neither he nor his wife Hillary were home at the time.

"We are deeply saddened by Buddy's death," a statement from the Clinton family said.

"He was a loyal companion and brought us much joy. He will be truly missed."

A police officer said it was not clear whether Buddy was being walked or had wandered off.

'Get a dog'

The family's previous dog, Zeke, was also run over and killed by a car when Mr Clinton was governor of Arkansas.

Mr Clinton acquired Buddy as a puppy in 1997 and named him after his favourite uncle, who had died that year.

"If you want a friend in Washington you need to get a dog," the president joked at the time.

Buddy and the Clinton's pet cat Socks fought frequently at the White House.

Both featured in a book - Dear Socks, Dear Buddy, Kids' Letters to the First Pets - published in 1998.