First Pup Gets Picked, a Portuguese Water Dog

As we know, Malia Obama sufers from allergies, so the pick has been problematic because of that. The Portuguese water dog is one of the more hypoallergenic dogs, and was one of the top breed picks from the start (though Pres. Obama called it a hound, at first).

According to what Michelle Obama told People, though, the Malia and Sasha will have to wait until after Spring Break to get the Portuguese water dog. She told the girls:

"Got to do it after spring break. You can't get a new dog and then go away for a week."

The next major argument over the Portuguese water dog would appear to be name. Moose and Frank have been suggested by the girls (Frank?).

The AKC says the Portuguese water dog will be 20 to 23 inches at the withers (males) and 17 to 21 inches for females. Weight: For males, 42 to 60 pounds; for females, 35 to 50 pounds.

Fun facts about Portuguese water dogs:

• They're members of the AKC's Working Group. They first became eligible for American dog show competition in 1984.
• Sen. Ted Kennedy has two Portuguese water dogs, Sunny and Splash.
• One of their original jobs was herding fish into fishermen's nets. Given their name, you might think they like the water, and they do. In fact, they have webbed feet.
• Portuguese water dogs are often called "Porties."

See our earlier report on Obama's Dog search

• Portuguese Water Dog As First Dog Candicate

• Obama Camp Narrows First Dog Nomination

• Awareness Of Hypoallergenic Dogs Thanks To Obama