Do Not Pet! Why Robot Dogs Are Guarding Mar-A-Lago?

Robotic Guard Dog Joins Secret Service at Mar-a-Lago Resort

The Secret Service has introduced a new tool in its security arsenal: a robotic dog named "Spot," developed by Boston Dynamics. Recently, Spot has been patrolling the perimeter of former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida.

Equipped with advanced sensors and surveillance technology, Spot operates either remotely or autonomously along pre-programmed routes. Despite its high-tech capabilities, Spot is unarmed, and each unit prominently displays a sign reading: "DO NOT PET."

Video footage of the robot dog strutting around the property has gone viral on TikTok, sparking mixed reactions ranging from fascination to unease. Late-night comedians have also picked up on Spot’s presence, but the Secret Service insists the deployment is no joke.

Safeguarding the president-elect is a top priority - said Anthony Guglielmi, the agency’s communications chief, citing two attempted attacks on Trump in 2020 as part of the rationale for enhancing security measures.

Security expert Ron Williams, a former Secret Service agent, suggests Spot fills critical gaps in surveillance, particularly on large, exposed properties like Mar-a-Lago. Spot’s agility—such as climbing stairs, navigating tight spaces, and even opening doors—makes it a versatile tool.

Similar robotic dogs are already in use by law enforcement and military agencies worldwide. For example, they’ve been employed by bomb squads in the U.S. and for reconnaissance in Ukraine’s conflict with Russia. However, public reactions to their use have been mixed. In 2022, the New York Police Department faced backlash for deploying robotic canines, with critics labeling them dystopian.

While Spot is not yet armed, other robotic models are reportedly being designed with weapons capabilities. Nonetheless, experts stress that these devices are unlikely to replace human operators anytime soon. Instead, they serve as advanced tools to enhance human decision-making and safety.

For now, Spot represents the evolving landscape of security technology, one where robotic dogs could become a more common sight in high-stakes protective operations.