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The Obama Dog: What Breed Did They Pick?
The Obama dog — yes, the entire world wanted to know: which breed would the Obamas choose, and when would it arrive? Barack and Michelle Obama had promised their daughters they would get a dog after the election. The first pet's selection has been eagerly awaited not only by the children but by the nation's dog lovers. Many White House dogs become celebrities in their own rights, in many cases, the presidential pet helps shape the president's image with the public.
The President said the family would look at shelters for a rescue dog. They settled on a rescue Portuguese Water Dog of the right age and temperament. The expected arrival was set for April 2009. Senator Ted Kennedy has or has had PWD's, they are a fairly rare breed. Portuguese Water Dogs make excellent companions. They are loving, independent, and intelligent. The breed is as close to hypoallergenic as a dog can be, apparently daughter Malia has an allergy to dogs.
Because of their looks, people wrongly lump them into the soft, cuddly, teddy-bear category, yet they are very much working dogs. "They need a job" (sound familiar?). They are not the kind of pet that simply lies by your side. According to Lisa Peterson, a spokeswoman for the American Kennel Club "I think the dog will thrive on meeting a lot of different people and traveling and going here, there, and everywhere" she added; "It's an ideal pet for the first family." I must add that not all PWD owners and breeders are in total agreement with this statement; Nor am I, my choice would have been....... You guessed it...A Chihuahua
In fairness to the Obama girls, I wish them plenty of happiness and love from whichever White House pets they choose.
****UPDATE****The Obama dog has arrived — a Portuguese Water Dog donated by Senator Kennedy. The first family named him Bo. So welcome to the White House, Bo, and welcome to the world of dog ownership, President Obama! Back from the Obama Dog to White House Dogs
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The dog ranked 62d in popularity among the 161 breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club.
