White House Unveils Excited First Pup

April 14, 2009— -- Economy, what economy? President Obama put serious issues behind for a few minutes this evening when he joined his wife and two daughters to unveil the much-anticipated first pup that has grabbed headlines for months.

"He's a star," Obama said of the family's new dog Bo. "He's got star quality."

A visibly excited Bo, surrounded by clicking cameras, ran around the White House south lawn with Malia Obama, 10. Bo, a Portuguese water dog, was specifically chosen by the Obamas because the breed is hypoallergenic, and Malia is allergic.

"I finally got a friend, it took some time," the president joked to the press. "We're very pleased with Bo."

Malia was also excited, commenting, "I love him, he's perfect."

The 6-month-old black-and-white dog was a gift to the Obamas from Sen. Ted Kennedy, D-Mass., who himself owns dogs from the same breeder and is known to sometimes bring them to work on Capitol Hill.

As Bo traversed through the White House south lawn, 7-year-old Sasha Obama commented that she thought it was funny the breed had to be taught how to swim, given their name.

The president said the newest family member will be allowed in the Oval Office but not in his bed. When asked whether he would walk the dog, first lady Michelle Obama commented that they would all take turns walking Bo.

If the past few months are any indication, Bo is likely to stay in the spotlight while the Obamas are in the White House. But what kind of pressure is that going to exert on him?

"One of the great things about the 'portie' [the nickname for the Portuguese water dog] is that it is a very adaptable breed, so once the dog gets into a new situation or a new home, as long as he has a routine and everyone is consistent on how to handle and train the dog, it will thrive, it won't be a big issue with him," said Lisa Peterson, spokesperson for the American Kennel Club.