SFO's very own Barni crowned TSA's Cutest Canine
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Barni is now a national celebrity. Photo: Transportation Security Administration
If you've passed through San Francisco International Airport, you might recall seeing a German shorthaired pointer with a chocolate-colored coat and velvety floppy ears.
- That long-legged dog nosing through luggage is 5-year-old Barni, and now, he's officially a national celebrity.
Driving the news: Barni was voted this year's TSA Cutest Canine after two rounds of national voting conducted on the TSA's social media accounts.
- The contest is held every year to celebrate National Dog Day on Aug. 26.
- As the winner, Barni will be featured on the cover of the TSA's 2025 canine calendar, which is free and set to be released late fall.
Zoom in: Barni began his career with the TSA in 2022 and works with his handler Michelle Cogle as part of SFO's security operations.
- His job is to sniff out any traces of explosives on and inside stationary objects, like trash bins, as well as passengers and their carry-on items. He's also trained to follow scents in the air currents.
- Barni is said to have a strong work ethic, plenty of drive and a heart of gold. He loves having his velvety ears rubbed and works hard for an important reward: his favorite squeaky ball.
What they're saying: "Because he is so very handsome, he attracts attention from passengers ... [throughout] the security checkpoint line," Cogle said in a press release. "He loves his job keeping travelers safe and he enjoys meeting and sniffing passengers."
- "One look at him and you can see why he is deserving of this title," added Fred Lau, TSA federal security director for San Francisco. "We thank everyone who voted and put their paws together for Barni."
