Ted Kennedy vs. Henry Winkler: Dog Lovers Face Off on Best Breed for Obamas
EmailABC News’ John Berman reports: What better way to spend a Monday than in the middle of a fight between Ted Kennedy and Henry Winkler. Kennedy, of course, is the senior Senator from Massachusetts. And Winkler is the Fonz, or at least was on Happy Days when it was on TV. What were they fighting about and why was I in the middle? Well the answer to the first question is "dogs," and the second, "because it’s Monday I guess." Really, the story is all about the hunt for the "First Dog." What dog will the Obama family choose to join them in the White House? It all heated up after this exchange in the new interview between Obama and ABC’s George Stephanopoulos: STEPHANOPOULOS: What kind of a dog are we getting and when are we getting it? OBAMA: The — they seem to have narrowed it down to a labradoodle or a Portuguese water hound. STEPHANOPOULOS: A medium sized. OBAMA: Medium sized dog, and so, we’re now going to start looking at shelters to see when one of those dogs might come up. STEPHANOPOULOS: So, you’re closing in on it? OBAMA: We’re closing in on it. This has been tougher than finding a commerce secretary. So we wanted to talk to owners of both candidates, the Labradoodle and Portugese Water Dog to find out which dog might be better suited for the task. After deploying the vast resources of ABC News, we learned that Henry Winkler, AKA "The Fonz" was the proud owner of a Labradoodle. I caught up with him by phone minutes before he was set to go on stage in London as Captain Hook in Peter Pan. Tell us whether you think the labradoodle or the portuguese water hound should go to the White House? VOTE NOW He told me: "The labaradoodle is smart, the labradoodle is sweet, the labradoodle if filled with the spirit of life. The labradoodle hops everywhere, he doesn’t just walk, our labradoodle is a girl, her name is, Charlette. And I promise you if the president has a labradoodle in the white house, he can have that dog on the economic team." He also issued a broadside at the owners of Portugese Water Dogs, "porties" as they are called. "I understand that it must be terrible to feel so wrong, but the thing is that you are lovely people, enjoy your pets, the labradoodle rules!" Enter Ted Kennedy. He loves his 3 Porties (more on that number in a bit.) And he gave us this amazing, fulsome statement by e-mail: From Senator Edward M. Kennedy: "A portuguese water dog is the perfect choice for first dog. The Obama girls — and their parents — will love a portuguese water dog. They’re loyal, smart, loving and they became a real part of the family. And they definitely do not shed. And if they’re lucky, they’ll find a really smart dog like mine who can even write a book. My dog Splash wrote ‘My Senator and Me: A Dog’s Eye View of Washington, DC.’ "I take Sunny and Splash to the Senate with me, and they love being around people and being part of the action. In fact, they’re so much fun that we’ve just added a new portuguese water dog puppy to our family — Captains Courageous is his name. We call him Cappy for short. And he’s another winner. "I think the Obama’s should double their fun and get two portuguese water dogs. They love to be active, and they can help entertain each other. "I understand that a labradoodle — also known as a portuguese water dog wannabe — is also being considered. Hmmmm. I hope someone checks into the shedding situation. I know lots of people who have labradoodles that are more lab than poodle — and they definitely shed. Sorry, Mr. Winkler, but that’s a fact. "I am proud to endorse the Portuguese Water dog as the next First Dog (or Dogs) of the United States. They have a can do and hopeful spirit, they are smart, they are resilient, they are determined, they are optimistic, and they are tireless. Sounds like a perfect fit for the Obama Family and the Obama Administration." Please notice the outstanding attack on Henry Winkler. It is a real political brawl. One that will only be solved by some biscuits or petting. And in the process, ABC News is able to break some news. Until this moment, we knew Ted Kennedy has 2 porties. But now, sources familiar with Kennedy’s pets say he now has a third. "Captains Courageous," they call him "Cappy" for short.
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Actually, if you want to get down to it, the best medium size dog for the girls would be a breed that is very underrated, the Keeshond, very smart. Best large size dog would be the Great Pyrenees; smart and all heart. Best small dog would be a shih tzu.
Posted by: jan | January 12, 2009, 5:59 pm 5:59 pm
The best dog is actually the result of mating a Bulldog and a Shihtzu.
Posted by: Joe | January 12, 2009, 6:35 pm 6:35 pm
Obama has already decided to go with the lap dog. The press is willing to play the part and Obama is happy to accept their advocacy.
Posted by: James | January 12, 2009, 6:37 pm 6:37 pm
The best dog for the Obama family is a rescued dog from a shelter. Save a life! Adopt!
Posted by: Jen | January 12, 2009, 6:44 pm 6:44 pm
Sorry, but the labradoodle is NOT a breed. It’s a mutt. There is no conformity in the temperaments, looks, coat or anything else to do with this mix.
It is nothing but a large cockapoo. Cockapoo producers have stated for 30 years that their mixes are a breed. They cannot set type in this mix. They’re all different, just as the labradoodles are all different.
There are a lot of labradoodles in shelters because people are finding out that they’re not all non-shedding. They’re not all smart. They’re not all like Labradors in temperament.
If the Obama’s were smart, they would get a PWD from a reputable breeder. They won’t find many in shelters because the PWD breeders are fanatical about taking their puppies back if owners cannot keep them, unlike the doodle breeders who are breeding mutts just for the $$$$. Once they have your money, you’re on your own which is why so many of them are now winding up in shelters.
Please set an example, Mr. President-elect. Don’t glorify these mutts anymore than they already have been. They are NOT a breed. They never will be.
Posted by: Laura | January 12, 2009, 6:49 pm 6:49 pm
I think that the gils would love to have a cocka-poo.. small but loveable…..
Posted by: susanne | January 12, 2009, 6:59 pm 6:59 pm
They should get a PWD. Our PWD dog, Moxie is wonderful and people always love to come over and pat her.
Posted by: MadJoz | January 12, 2009, 7:06 pm 7:06 pm
I think the main thing the President elect needs to remember is if you are allergic to a dog its not the hair/fur its the DANDER. All dogs have dander so saying a dog is hypoallergenic is obsurd! Some dogs do release less dander than others but they all release it.
Posted by: Beth | January 12, 2009, 7:07 pm 7:07 pm
Atticus, our 2 year old PWD, firmly believes that one of his relatives should live in the White House. You will not find a cuter, more lovable companion.
Posted by: Peter | January 12, 2009, 7:08 pm 7:08 pm
Labradoodles have been around since the ’80 and they are mixed breed like there human counterparts but, smarter than some. I own a standard black one and he is a wonderful dog very smart
very good watch, and protecter of his family. good dog mr.president elect…
p.s. yhey do not shed!!!!
Posted by: kate | January 12, 2009, 7:12 pm 7:12 pm
I beg to differ with them both. But The Best dog the Obama’s is a BoxerDoodle. I have one. Her Mom was a Brindle BOxer and her Dad was a Black Standard Poodle. She is literally perfect. And NO Mr. Kennedy, She does NOT shed.
And Oh BTW Mr. Obama, I am unemployed and would LOVE, for a small fee, find you a Boxerdoodle, train the pup, so she would be perfect just like my dog.
Posted by: Kim Roberson | January 12, 2009, 7:17 pm 7:17 pm
Two words: Standard Poodle.
Posted by: Lexy | January 12, 2009, 7:37 pm 7:37 pm
TRUE labradoodle not a breed……..Do not overlook the PULI hypo type,Hungarian herding dog….Full bloodedbreed for hudreds of years…..Just Won best in herding at animal Planet dog show…I know my Ex-wife has our two….She would be willing to let the Girls adopt one because she just had twin girls herself…If the Obamas are interested I can put you in touch.
Posted by: David J. Jorgensen | January 12, 2009, 7:40 pm 7:40 pm
I must agree with James.
I thought the Obama’s made it clear that they would adopt a shelter dog. No offense taken on either Mr. Kennedy or Mr. Winkler, I doubt those breeds are common in shelters.
Posted by: Susan | January 12, 2009, 7:45 pm 7:45 pm
I find it hilarious that Kennedy owns a dog that has “water” in it’s name .. that’s friggin hilarious!
Posted by: Marcus | January 12, 2009, 7:51 pm 7:51 pm
Get two tricolor welsh corgis
Posted by: AG | January 12, 2009, 7:53 pm 7:53 pm
How about some hamsters? Cute, Lovable, and easy to care for. We are definitely the best type of dog threre is….even if we aren’t actually dogs. Try ,oh I don’t know ROBOROVSKI hamsters, but hey, just a thought. If not us a mini schnauser would be good. For the hamsters,go here!
Posted by: Coke and Pepsi | January 12, 2009, 8:00 pm 8:00 pm
Sorry Susan. There are dogs of every breed and every kind in the shelters and the rescue organizations who go into shelters and rescue the dog breeds they support. There has also been an increase in abandoned dogs both in town and out in the country.
And off topic but just for the record, if you turn your dog lose in the countryside, it’s probably going to either get hit by a car, get shot by a farmer who already has as many dogs as he can support, starve to death, or if it’s a small breed be killed by coyotes.
Posted by: jan | January 12, 2009, 8:04 pm 8:04 pm
I advocate a “pound puppy”. We shopped our local Humane Society several times before adopting our first best friend. We determined a set of standards, and as heartbreaking as it is to walk away without taking home a dog, when there are so many in need, it was worth the wait. Our Toby was the only dog not overtly vying for attention. He just stood there wagging his tail, not barking and looked at me with his soulful eyes. If you want a true member of the family, a pedigree and blood line doesn’t mean anything. Look for temperament. Toby is a Border Collie/Scottish Terrier mix,a mutt. He is special without an AKC endorsement.
Posted by: michele smith | January 12, 2009, 8:19 pm 8:19 pm
PWD’s are super dogs. We had one for 15 years before she passed away. We now have another and he is great. A word of warning…these dogs need to be exercised everyday and not just a little walk along the sidewalk. Either a run or a swim. Lots of energy, but well worth the time. Loyal, funny and love to have a job to do…afterall they are working dogs. Can be trained to pick up socks off the floor and put them in the laundry hamper. And they do not shed. Everyone always needs to do research before getting a pet. Not all dogs are suitable for every household. That is why there are so many dogs in shelters. I vote for the PWD…afterall, plenty of room to run on the White House grounds without fear of being hit by a car!!!
Posted by: Bebba | January 12, 2009, 8:28 pm 8:28 pm
The best combination for a dog is a Goldendoodle. That is a cross between a poodle and a golden retriever. The fur is usually softer than a Labrodoodle and are not as hyper as a Labrododdle because the retreivers are calmer dogs by nature. They are really cute and wonderful with kids. If you have allergies, this dog will not bother you because it is 50% poodle. If the Obama’s are interested, I will send you pictures of my golden doodle. She is really cute.
Posted by: Joan | January 12, 2009, 8:52 pm 8:52 pm
We want to see an Airedale in the White House. The Obamas can get one from Airedale Rescue. They are non-shedding and hypoallergenic. They are also fun loving and bring a lot of laughter in to any home. A well socilaized airedale is the best pet. PWD are known to chew pillows and sofas. Labradoodles are cute and can be great, but one reader is correct, they are arbitrary mixes so you are never quite sure what qualities you are getting.
Posted by: Sara | January 12, 2009, 9:15 pm 9:15 pm
Obama can adopt a dog from a rescue group of either poodles, goldendoodle, labdoodle, Portuguese Water dog that has been given up due to the owner can’t afford to take care of it or dropped off to the pound
Posted by: utopia50 | January 12, 2009, 9:22 pm 9:22 pm
Portuguese Water Dogs are uber intellectauls and very cunning. I untill recently had 2 dogs that were polar opposites,a bold, brash curly and a shy wavey. I lost my curly recently and now I have only the shy daddy’s girl who misses her big sister.
These dogs are serious sailors and my curly once brought me into port in dense fog. With a good compass heading, in familar waters, I almost hit the end of the breakwater. My dog became alert, sniffed a bit and then pointed port, her tail curled and a leg up, looked at me and nodded. I no sooner turned port, when through the fog I saw the red flash of the mark, narrowly missing it.
The best dog ever for an ocean lover like me.
Captain Kennedy
Posted by: A Kennedy | January 12, 2009, 10:00 pm 10:00 pm
Portuguese Water Dogs are uber intellectauls and very cunning. I untill recently had 2 dogs that were polar opposites,a bold, brash curly and a shy wavey. I lost my curly recently and now I have only the shy daddy’s girl who misses her big sister.
These dogs are serious sailors and my curly once brought me into port in dense fog. With a good compass heading, in familar waters, I almost hit the end of the breakwater. My dog became alert, sniffed a bit and then pointed port, her tail curled and a leg up, looked at me and nodded. I no sooner turned port, when through the fog I saw the red flash of the mark, narrowly missing it.
The best dog ever for an ocean lover like me.
Captain Kennedy
Posted by: A Kennedy | January 12, 2009, 10:00 pm 10:00 pm
For all those “uneducated” people stating that labradoodles are not a breed…but a “mutt,” may I remind you that ALL DOG BREEDS were bred from a MIX..therefore making them ALL a mutt. That’s how new breeds are started.
I wish doodle haters would find something else to spout off about…doodles make wonderful, wonderful pets with personality and physical traits from 2 of the best family-friendly, intelligent breeds of dogs–the poodle and the lab. It just doesn’t get any better than that.
Posted by: Kim | January 12, 2009, 10:14 pm 10:14 pm
I don’t really think that he will need a dog??
We can just play videos showing members of the mainstream media chasing Hussein around the White House ……. Most of them have their noses firmly planted in his rear anyway.
This is really going to be fun!!
God Bless America!
Posted by: JimOnTheRight | January 12, 2009, 10:17 pm 10:17 pm
Laura’s posting at 6:49 makes several good points about the Labradoodle. Another post correctly identifies the source of allergens as the dander, not the hair, of the dog. Our heavy-shedding German shepherds produce very little dander. Our previous dog, a Lab-Springer mix, shed very little but had a tremendous amount of dander. Our allergy-sensitive friends had severe symptoms around the Lab-Springer cross and are not bothered at all by our two German Shepherds.
I have yet to know a smart Labradoodle — the term is an oxymoron. They require very high-maintenance coat care – if not brushed daily the coat becomes very matted, which is painful to the dog. The mats must be professionally removed by a groomer, often by close clipping the fur. And yes, they do shed. The ones I have known are not very smart and are downright goofy.
We have had dogs for the past 30 years (a variety of breeds and rescues) and I would never adopt a Labradoodle. I don’t know much about PWD and I am not a “breed snob” but it is very important that you choose the right dog, for the right reasons.
Sorry Mr. President-elect — more research is called for. A dog is a huge long-time commitment — don’t make a mistake on this one!
Posted by: Debbie | January 12, 2009, 11:09 pm 11:09 pm
What is the big deal, dogs smell, they all should be outdoors so they do not clean themselves on the carpet or rug…
Posted by: AEW | January 12, 2009, 11:41 pm 11:41 pm
Excellent. A bunch of yo-yos telling their Emperor With No Clothes what doggie to hang around with. And people wonder why the country is going down hill. Hey Michelle, are you proud of America yet? How much does YOUR dress cost?
Posted by: usa | January 13, 2009, 12:53 am 12:53 am
You have a choice not to comment on every subject. This is a world newser segment of the abc. So, you don’t have to criticise just because u don’t like the subject. There are other subjects in other segments to comment.
That said, the First Family (Obamas) shld go for Ted’s kind of dogs – the Portuguese Water Dog(s). I buy Ted’s advert on them; he is a good salesman!
Posted by: Austin Chuks | January 13, 2009, 3:00 am 3:00 am
All breeds have their charms and their functions too, but really and truly, mutts rule! My husband is a vet and tells me that the average mutt has a hearty constitution from not having been over bred, and each one is a unique character, not like anyone else.
Whatever dog they chose, I hope the Obamas will love and cherish him or her!
Posted by: Phoenix Lady | January 13, 2009, 6:36 am 6:36 am
It’s time for a change in this country as well as for the White House pet. Mutts make great pets. Mr. President elect you are for the American people so pick an all American dog not a pedigree. Let the girls spend time with the dog you are thinking about since it will be their pet and companion. Don’t look at breeders but look at the pounds, humane society and rescue centers. I’ve had better pets from these places than from breeders. Dogs are our best friends.
Posted by: Cecile | January 13, 2009, 7:34 am 7:34 am
Are the Obama’s really worried about shedding? They won’t have to clean it. Go to the pound, pick the dog you like because it touches your heart. Don’t worry about all the “politics” following your choice of dog. Just pick one if you want and don’t if you’re doing it because it’s expected. Dogs are wonderful additions to any home, if they are wanted.
Posted by: SHERYLRYAN | January 13, 2009, 8:26 am 8:26 am
jan, please don’t suggest a keeshond-let’s continue to keep this magnificent breed a secret. No need for the world to know how great they are!
Posted by: duke_07401 | January 13, 2009, 8:30 am 8:30 am
First – who care’s, second – let the kids decide since it will be their dog, not America’s dog.
Posted by: Stupidpeople | January 13, 2009, 8:45 am 8:45 am
The election is over. Obama won. He’ll be a great president. Not perfect but great. And Michelle Obama is one dynamite woman! I’ll take brains over Texas macho idiot b.s. anyday.
Posted by: counting crows | January 13, 2009, 9:01 am 9:01 am
No has mentioned what would be good for the dog! Senator Kennedy takes his dogs on his boat they get to enjoy WATER! Portuguese WATER dogs are willful and like to work and keep busy. Otherwise they can manage to get into a lot mischief. Think about what is in the dogs head and what they were bred to do.
Posted by: KatyD | January 13, 2009, 9:01 am 9:01 am
I’m a dog groomer and trainer and I say for a smaal dog that is hypoallergenic and has a great personality i wold choose a shihtzu and for a med size dog I would coose a labradoodle. Labradoodles tend to have a better personality then port. water dogs do especially when it come to grooming. Also hypoallergenice dogs require alot of grooming both by you and by a professional groomer they matt up really easy. Hoep you enjoy your new pet
Posted by: Christa | January 13, 2009, 9:03 am 9:03 am
The Porty has my vote. A wonderful companion, loyal.
Posted by: Ruth Parker | January 13, 2009, 9:15 am 9:15 am
I have an eight year old PWD that I adopted from a shelter, what a dreamboat of a dog. I must though, give all the credit in the world to her previous family since this girl just oozes with sweetness and manners.
Posted by: Lori | January 13, 2009, 9:15 am 9:15 am
This is to Jimontheright and Jen, Jan. 12th. First off, Jim, if you met MY labradoodle, she’d melt your heart. She is SO SMART, LOVING, comical, obedient, and extremely good with my boys, who were four and six when we got her a few years ago. They are her “boys” and is very protective of them,for example if my husband or I rough house play with them, she’s afraid we’re hurting them. She will let them do anything to her, take food out of her mouth, whatever, she even plays hide and seed with them, literally! Don’t forget Jim, that if a dog is not well behaved, you can look at the owner for that fault. That goes for ANY dog….
If you want to belittle them “Jen”, by saying they’re mutts, great, love it, we could care less about the AKC thing, really, a dog is to love, not to showcase! Elitist, really. I guess President Obama is a mutt? Shame on you. And you know what? We love AKC dogs too, but to make it a competition is very weird and immature, really. She’s a member of our family, she listens to us like she’s human and we love her to death. We love the fact that labradoodles are all original, not cookie cutters. Cross breeds, or mutts as you call them are GREAT. Where’s your dog loving heart? Who cares, they’re all dogs, correct???? Yea, I am.
Let the Obama girls decide, both dogs are great. How can you not love any dog, really. They should really get both dogs because dogs love company. There’s enough lawn room for sure! I can only share what I know about the Labradoodle as an owner, my first pet acutally, very easy to train her, and she is full of love and affection, for everyone! It’s insane. But I’m sure the Water dog is too… The Labradoodle’s face melts my heart for sure…Just saying…
Posted by: SAM | January 13, 2009, 9:30 am 9:30 am
I think a soft coated wheaton terrier would be a perfect match for the Obama family. We are getting one this spring.
Posted by: winters816 | January 13, 2009, 9:56 am 9:56 am
How about Teddy gives up on the dog debate and finishes his time here behind prison bars for the death of Mary Jo Kopechne.
Posted by: dave | January 13, 2009, 10:10 am 10:10 am
Actually, the best thing they could do would be adopt a grey hound. They make WONDERFUL pets and just want to be loved.
Posted by: Katy D | January 13, 2009, 11:09 am 11:09 am
The best dog for the Obama’s is the Australian Labradoodle which is a multigeneration breed of 6 other breeds including the Portugese Water Dog.
The Australian Labradoodle was developed as a service dog for people with handicaps that have allergies as they are Non-Allergenic and Non-Shedding.
There are two distinct bloodlines, the Australian Labradoodle that does NOT shed and the American Labradoodle that does shed.
The Australian Labradoodle also comes in three different sizes: Mini 16 to 25 lbs, Medium 26 to 40 lbs, and Standard 40 to 60lbs.
The Medium size is the most popular size.
Posted by: Joan Standlee | January 13, 2009, 11:18 am 11:18 am
If you are going to get a dog get a good one.A black lab is the BEST dog for kids going…Yes they shed but if you want a dog get a dog>>>>>>>>
Posted by: NHvoter | January 13, 2009, 12:15 pm 12:15 pm
One word: Dachshund
Posted by: Susie | January 13, 2009, 1:04 pm 1:04 pm
This is American politics!!! They need to fight til the death! Just joking… just joking… pick which ever one is most politically correct!!!
Posted by: David | January 13, 2009, 1:20 pm 1:20 pm
How about a ‘First Dog’ and a ‘Second Dog’!!! It will speak of the the individual role each dog will play in the White House and speak nothing of the either of the dog’s intristic value!!!
Posted by: David | January 13, 2009, 1:28 pm 1:28 pm
pound pups! shelters are being flooded with dumps bc of the economic crisis, and euthanizing them at a record rate. we have 3—all “caught strays”, large adult females. 2 were about to be put down. one is a yellow lab (ok they are mad shedders), the other 2 who knows. they each have their unique personalities, but they all get along (many raised their brows at my taking on 3 females), they are all sweet, calm, well behaved, healthy (after tx for giardia and kennel cough), they are all strong distance runners, and they are awesome with kids. any one of them would be a good fit for the White House (not that we’d give em up). I kind of feel sorry for the Obama girls that they have been deprived of a pet dog thus far. I hope they do go to the pound with someone knowledgeable, pick up the dog with the right temperament and energy level, and do for pound pups what “101 dalmatians” and “Marley and Me” have done for their respective breeds.
Posted by: teamdirtdogs | January 13, 2009, 1:31 pm 1:31 pm
Obama should exercise executive priviledge and delegate the choice to Malia & Sasha as an official family decision that will endear all of America to the Obama’s and make us all feel like one big family sharing the family dog!!! Then if the family dog needs medical attention, Obama can raise special taxes for the ‘First Dog’s’ health care and then we will all get to sacrifice together just like we’ve been planning!!! This is going to be great!!!
Posted by: David | January 13, 2009, 1:35 pm 1:35 pm
Of just those two breeds, I think the portaguese water dog would be their best bet…The dog loves exersize and water sounds like a Obama do to me…It also comes in a varity of colors and has various photogenic markings..I am sure there would be dozens of pictures. It does not shed… The labradoodles have no markings, only solid colors. Which would not be quite as photogenic… .Also some of them do shed…Whichever they choose I am sure their kids will love it.
Posted by: AnnD52 | January 13, 2009, 1:44 pm 1:44 pm
Which ever one they choose will set the tone for Obama’s entire presidency… the character and temperment of the dog will be a direct reflection on how the United States relates with foreign diplomats to the nature of the relationship this president will have with the Congress and other key players in major decision making!
Posted by: David | January 13, 2009, 1:46 pm 1:46 pm
What kind of dog was Pluto?
Posted by: David | January 13, 2009, 1:56 pm 1:56 pm
A bloodhound-mutt, part animation!
Posted by: David | January 13, 2009, 2:02 pm 2:02 pm
If I was in the whitehouse I would probably score a wolf.
Posted by: Suzannaquanashawn | January 13, 2009, 2:10 pm 2:10 pm
This is a sickening puff piece. The media should have the decency to do their fawning in private.
The President-Elect is about to dole out billions for irrelevant initiatives, disguised as stimulus, and this is the reporting we get.
This is both shameless and shameful.
Posted by: Bob McGrail | January 13, 2009, 2:33 pm 2:33 pm
Com’on Bob… just say it outloud a few times, ‘Labradoodle,’ say it again, ‘Labradoodle, labradoodle.’
Posted by: David | January 13, 2009, 2:50 pm 2:50 pm
I think the media has alot more important things to be checking into and reporting than what kind of mutt BHO’s getting. Besides who cares !!!!!
Posted by: countrygirl_74 | January 13, 2009, 2:56 pm 2:56 pm
get an australian shepherd! just take some allergy pills
Posted by: mary shaffer | January 13, 2009, 5:29 pm 5:29 pm
A cute little chihuahua or a pug or dachshund puppy would be the best small dog and a white or yellow lab would be the best large dog!
Posted by: Sooner | January 13, 2009, 6:18 pm 6:18 pm
As long as they have someone ,either the kids or a groomer.I would suggest a Border Collie,They are a great service dog and wonderful companions.AS long as they are combed and bathed regularly there should not be a problem with allergies.They are one of the smartest dogs i know.The girls and their parents could have a lot of fun training or playing with this wonderful breed.There are many Border Collie rescue places around the country.
Posted by: jojobo1 | January 13, 2009, 7:44 pm 7:44 pm
I think you all have it wrong. The Obamas need a melting pot dog, and the only one that fits the bill is a harlequin great dane.
Posted by: banker1 | January 14, 2009, 11:21 am 11:21 am
Mutts rule. This BS about conformation & breed standards is leftover eugenics nonsense from the Victorian era. Check the history of dog shows & breeding sometime.
Oh yeah, maybe “Laura” would like to tell us what happens to even the purebred puppies who aren’t sufficiently up to standard. It ain’t pretty, most of the time.
For my part I say thank you, thank you, THANK YOU, to the Obama family for A) not being elitist snots, and B) wanting to adopt from a shelter. That IS a good example to the rest of the country.
A dog is a part of the family, not a decoration or accessory.
Posted by: Beverly | January 15, 2009, 3:42 pm 3:42 pm
Dog Lovers Face Off on Best Breed for Obamas Aw, come on Berman! You call this news? And you call yourself a journalist? This isn’t news; this is crap! Who cares about the dog Obama chooses! Man, the media is boardering on complete stupidity! More tabloid crap!
Posted by: brannigon1 | January 15, 2009, 4:53 pm 4:53 pm
The Irish Wheaten Terrier is a perfect midsized dog with and very hypoallergenic as it sheds very little and has little or no dander!
Posted by: Merrill | January 15, 2009, 4:56 pm 4:56 pm
A Boston Terrier would be the perfect pick. It was the first registered American Breed and is often referred to the American Gentleman. They are loving and protective companions that have unique personalities. There are numerous rescue agencies that have these dogs that need a home.
Posted by: Glenna Davis | January 15, 2009, 6:56 pm 6:56 pm
Okay, who the hell cares? Let them have a weasel or rat. More fitting for Obama himself.
Posted by: Lisa Again | January 15, 2009, 8:03 pm 8:03 pm
What is this fascination about “dogs” and “humans”? Do we think that “dogs” consider themselves as pets to us? No, they may think they are superior and indespensible. That, to them, may be the reason why we “humans” desire their company. We walk them, pick up their poop, groom them,feed them. They just can’t understand why these “humans” are so nice to them.
Posted by: what667 | January 15, 2009, 11:33 pm 11:33 pm
Best Obama dog would be a Nobama dog. It steals the family’s food scraps when no one is looking, chews up the daily newspaper, chases little old ladies and anyone who doesn’t agree with his owner, and produces nothing but Obamavomit.
Obamadog, what else would you expect?
Posted by: Kit | January 16, 2009, 1:01 am 1:01 am
There are no breeds that are completely hypoallergenic even though some have less dander and shed less than others. Therefore, whichever breed that they choose will likely have to be shampooed and brushed everyday because of Milea’s alleries. The girls will quickly tire of all the shampooing and brushing. Then there is the question of who is going to feed it, walk it and clean up the “accidents!” They will get tired of all that very quickly!
Posted by: James | January 16, 2009, 4:07 am 4:07 am
I wanna know how much tax money is going to go to the person paid to take care of the dog. Certainly the Obamas won’t be. The dog will probably have a whole staff of caretakers, groomers, publicists, etc.
Posted by: nathan | January 16, 2009, 6:40 am 6:40 am
PLEASE adopt a Shelter dog ….. The purebreds have so many health problems because of “standardizing” them! The mixed breeds are healthier and easier to train! These purebred owners should get over themselves!
Posted by: Michelle | January 16, 2009, 11:55 am 11:55 am
My dear, dear Obama Family,
I am so grateful that you are our new First Family and at the same time my heart goes out to you for the magnitude of responsibility that you shoulder in your new position. I would do anything I could to ease your burden and so I am writing to offer my observations with regard to your search for the “First Companion”.
It is clear that you approach all situations with an admirable method of research, evaluation and informed decision-making. Therefore, it is not surprising to me that you have come to the conclusion that the Portuguese Water Dog may be an ideal breed for your particular circumstances. Having spent a lifetime with dogs and the last 18 years with Portuguese Water Dogs, I can tell you that all dogs are special to me, but this breed is unique. As you may have gleaned from your research, the breed almost went extinct in the early 70′s, but because of the dedication of a few passionate people, the Portuguese Water Dog was preserved and brought back to a healthy breeding level through a painstaking, carefully monitored program over the past few decades. Through rigorous health testing, responsible breeding and vigilance for health problems strongly promoted through the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America (PWDCA, Inc.), the Portuguese Water Dog endures.
As noble as it is of you to want to adopt a shelter dog, you are not likely to find a Portuguese Water Dog in a shelter, thanks to the strict practice of most PWD breeders who require contracts when placing their puppies, and to the efforts of the PWDCA rescue, which is highly proactive whenever a puppy or dog needs to be re-homed. Furthermore, when dogs end up in rescue or shelters, it is very often because of behavioral problems (most likely caused by humans, but sometimes inherent in a dog’s personality). I think your family would be better off not trying to take on the added burden of a behavioral project, especially as first-time dog trainers.
I realize this presents a dilemma as you would like very much to find a shelter dog. However, given the constraint of your daughter’s allergy, I think it would be most prudent to find a Portuguese Water Dog puppy that is a good match for your family from a reputable breeder.
As far as the Labradoodle is concerned, I have this to say. Years ago, when I first had Portuguese Water Dogs, few people had heard of them. When people would ask me what they looked like, I would say, “like a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle.” I never understood why people started actually crossing those two breeds when there was the Portuguese Water Dog, already possessing the characteristics trying to be attained. Unless, of course, it was for the money. Portuguese Water Dogs are expensive because the PWDCA has worked very hard to keep them out of puppy mills and pet stores. And the PWDCA has worked very hard to safeguard the health of the breed by tracking genetic conditions. In crossing one breed to another, there will inevitably be recessive gene combinations that may play out in health problems. I don’t know if or how these conditions are being addressed in the Labradoodle breeding program.
I wish you luck in finding your new “baby.” I know there is great joy in store for you. Just remember that while you can’t please all the people all the time,dogs love you no matter what.
Sincerely,
MB Alexander
Posted by: MB Alexander | January 20, 2009, 1:52 pm 1:52 pm
for christ’s sake, ADOPT!
Posted by: happy | April 12, 2009, 1:37 pm 1:37 pm