Mustafa Kemal Atatürk (1881–1938) was the founder of the Republic of Türkiye, its first President, and a military commander. He led the National War of Independence and founded the Republic in 1923. He was a visionary leader who carried out deep-rooted reforms that modernized the country, especially in law, education, and social life.
Today is November 24, the day we remember our teachers, who guide our lives, with gratitude. On this special day, we wanted to take a closer look at the closest and most loyal friend of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who guided an entire nation: Fox, one of the strongest examples of his love for both humans and animals.
This unique friendship, which shows the kind of heart a great leader had amid an intense work schedule, formality, and historic decisions, is the kind of story that can inspire every dog lover.
How Did They Meet? The Story of a Dog from Yalova to Çankaya
According to the most widely known account, Fox entered Atatürk’s life in the late 1920s during a visit to Yalova. Atatürk noticed the charming and energetic dog of Hasan Efendi, a traveling photographer, and liked him immediately.
This puppy, said to be a Pointer breed, or according to one source, a stray dog, was purchased for 50 liras, a significant amount at the time. Before long, Fox would become the most spoiled and special resident of Çankaya Mansion.
Atatürk saw Fox not merely as a pet, but as a companion, a confidant, and most importantly, a friend.
🐾 The Leader’s Shadow: Fox Was Everywhere
Fox was right at the center of Atatürk’s life. He did not only run around the garden of the mansion; he also accompanied the founder of Türkiye even during moments filled with the highest level of formality:
• Domestic Trips: Atatürk would not leave Fox behind during his trips around the country. Fox was with him on the train, in the car, and wherever he stayed.
• Work Companion: While Atatürk worked, Fox would quietly wait at the foot of his bed on a specially made cushion or right beside his desk.
• Play and Peace: After intense meetings, political decisions, and the exhaustion brought by years spent on the front, one of Atatürk’s greatest sources of peace was the time he spent playing with Fox. Even when Fox jumped onto the billiards table and rolled the balls around, Atatürk would laugh at his mischief with great affection.
The Human Side of a Leader: Not Every Bite Deserves Anger!
Because of the endless love and attention he received from Atatürk, Fox sometimes did not hesitate to act spoiled. Two incidents recorded in historical accounts show just how deep Atatürk’s love for animals and his great tolerance truly were:
- The Governor’s Trouser Leg: During an official reception, Fox reportedly went under the table and bit the trouser leg of a newly appointed governor of the time. Some historians humorously interpret this as “the victory of the Republic’s dog over a governor coming from Ottoman traditions.”
- Biting Atatürk: It is also said that Fox once bit Atatürk’s hand in a sudden moment of roughness. Although those around him reacted harshly, Atatürk’s response was: “He did not bite to do harm; I loved him. One should not be angry at everyone who bites.”
These incidents show that Atatürk was not only a leader, but also a gentle-spirited person with deep empathy and unconditional love for living beings.
Conclusion: The Value Left to Us
The story of Atatürk and Fox teaches us loyalty, unconditional love, and how important the presence of a small friend can be, even in the busiest life.
Fox, who brought peace and joy into the life of a great leader, continues to be a source of inspiration for all animal lovers.
Let us not forget that, just like the loyal friend in the life of a great leader, the health and happiness of our own best friends are more important than anything.
If you would like to stand by your best friend at every moment, spoil them with the most natural treats, and show them the value they deserve, do not forget to explore our natural dog treats.