Obamas' first puppy: 'Homeless animal'

Adopting is the best way. There are millions of dogs discarded every year. I believe it was Ghandi who said "you can judge a nation's morality by the way they treat their animals".

So long as it's not a pitbull!!!!!!!

I was going to suggest a rescue pitbull. They are wonderful dog and great with kids.

A rescue pitbull, named Lipstick!

It should be the girls' choice - though with proper adult supervision and advice. I hope they are taken to a local Animal Shelter as their first stop in choosing a puppy, but if they decide they want a pedigree pup, that should be what they get.

The Obamas have talked about getting a “hypoallergenic” dog. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a truly non-allergenic or hypoallergenic dog. Dogs (and cats for that matter) produce allergenic proteins that can be found in their dander and saliva, regardless of their breed or the length and color of their hair, or lack thereof. Some may produce more - or less - allergens than others simply because of their individual nature. Allergen immunotherapy may be an option for those who wish to be desensitized to such allergens.

My heart will swell if the Obama's adopt a homeless dog. That move would go with the spirit of his message and who he is. Someone who is concerned for the "least" of those.

I adopted a shelter dog, only a year old. Still young, yet over the horrible 'potty training' stage. She is the best dog, sweet and well mannered. I hope they truly consider a shelter dog.

One of the Obama girls has allergies, so it will need to be a poodle or bichon - no shedding. Poodles rule in my home.

I am happy to hear the Obama family will adopt a dog from the Humane Society. There is a person in my community who runs a puppy mill who has been bragging that the professional trainer who has bought several pups and had them shipped to NY will be getting a puppy for the Obama's. I think puppy mills are a cruel and inhumane way to breed dogs for profit. Many pups are "disposed" of because they aren't perfect and the brokers do not want them.

Go with a boxer! Tough, playful, loyal, handsome, protective, absolutely the best with kids. Go with a boxer, definately!

We have allergies in our family and we are just great with our non-shedding soft coated wheaten terrier !!! These are soooo wonderful they are loving and fun so perfect for the little girls.

I can't believe that people are actually saying that two young girls with no experience working with dogs should get a shelter dog that has untold potential for health issues and behavioral issues too. Most dogs that get dumped at a shelter are there because someone didn't train them well or someone wasn't responsible for their dog's reproductive status. Are they going to find a shelter dog that has been completely health-tested and tested for behaviorial problems? Who's going to do that kind of testing on a shelter dog? They are far better off adopting a dog from a breed rescue - then they will at least have a clue what they are getting instead of adopting a "cute" little puppy that turns out to be a ninety pound horse that poops all over the White House when it grows up and then ends up having to be placed somewhere when it starts eating the furniture.

I hope that he chooses to adopt.Though I'm not against buying from breeders, as long as they are responsible ones.

And to another poster's comment:
"So long as it's not a pitbull!!!!!!!"

Oh, don't worry your shirt off. A Pit Bull won't asassinate Obama. Heck, I've met several Pit Bulls owned by responsible owners and I find that when they are raised right they are no more dangerous that any other breed. I think that it would be great if Obama got a Pit Bull, that would help quench the lies spread about them these days. But, like every breed, Pit Bulls are not for everyone. Pitties are high energy and can sometimes be dog-aggressive. One needs to do their research on picking out the best breed for them.

Wow. Elizabeth clearly knows nothing about shelter dogs. I've volunteered with several shelters across the country, and I can unequivocally state that the reason "most dogs" are in a shelter is because of backwards attitudes like Elizabeth's. Dogs wind up in shelters for a myriad of reasons--some are lost, some are abandoned, some are rescued from abusive situations, some have loving owners who either pass away or can no longer care for them (especially with our current housing crisis), some are born there, etc.

And YES, Elizabeth, the vast majority of shelters do thorough health and behavior screenings--in fact, you're much more likely to know a dog's temperament when you rescue a dog from a shelter, for many people have come in contact with the dog, evaluated it on a number of criteria (including how child-friendly it is), and engaged with it in numerous situations. Furthermore, your comment about not just going for a "cute puppy" is all the more reason to adopt an adult, fully-grown dog from a shelter.

I find your commentary to be an ignorant perpetuation of the stereotype of "pound dogs" that results in the euthanization of millions of wonderful pets each year. I'm glad to see that the Obamas are more educated and caring than you.

P.S. Pit bulls make fabulous family pets. Visit www.badrap.org for more information on this unfairly maligned breed.

YAY FOR ADOPTION!!!!!!!!!!!!!

YOU CAN FIND ANY KIND OF DOG!

I applaud the adoption of shelter animals - there are people there who can recommend a range of choices (short-haired, sizes, etc.). My own beloved JJ was a "Celtie" Half Sheltie, half Corgi. I certainly hope they opt for a Mixed Breed puppy - they're healthy, and unique.

I definitely like the idea of a pitbull named "lipstick", but the kids may be too small yet for any sort of big, exuberant dog. Whatever they do, as long as they either get a rescue dog of some kind, or one from a legitimate, conscientious breeder, I'll be happy. I do wish they would get a sweet, kind, loving pitbull, though, to increase awareness of the horrible suffering and torture these dogs endure at the hands of the worst kind of thugs and criminals who buy into the whole "killer pitbull" lie, and want to fight them, or just have them to look tough. Pitbulls are for love, point blank.

I just want to point out the girls weren't promised the dog if Obama won - that would be too cruel! They were promised the dog for the disruption a campaign would mean to their lives. They would still get a puppy if they all went back to Chicago!

Imagine - a president who does the right thing! Such an example for the nation with this personal decision! This is one more reason for me to be thrilled with the Obama election. As othes have said earlier, adoption can be handled in many ways that will produce an appropriate pet. I'm mid-50's now and I have always had a pet dog, but by far the best dog I have ever met was a rescued pit bull so I have to second the idea that a pit bull would be a great choice. Not only are most of them among the most sweet, obedient and loyal of dogs but they have the worst and least-deserved public opinion rap of all breeds. A pit or amstaff would be great, both for the family and for the example it would provide to others.

It would be nice if they rescued a greyhound.They are definitely for people with allergies.There are so many out there that need loving homes.No matter what situations they have been in, the hounds give undivided love to you.Biggest couch potatoes you'll ever meet.

Adoption is the only way to go. There are plenty of pure breed dogs and mutts that need homes. If you're thinking of getting a dog, please check your local rescue organizations FIRST. You won't be sorry you did and that dog will be forever grateful.

ADOPT!!!!!!!! Great time for Daddy to teach his daughters about the millions of unwanted adoptable dogs out there and the need for something to be done about it. Many dogs to choose from at Shelters, Humane Societies and Rescues......many are purebreed that have been thrown away. SAVE A LIFE....ADOPT A HOMELESS DOG!!!!

First of all I would like to disagree with the uninformed comments made by Elizabeth. When an animal is dumped at a shelter, it is not because there was something wrong with the animal. It was because something was wrong with the people. Also, just because you know the breed or the mix does not mean that you will get a good dog. Having a good dog has much more to do with training and socialization than breed characteristics. If you must know the mix there is a new and relativey inexpensive DNA test available to find out the breed and or mix of breeds. And one more point, most of the shelters evaluate their dogs extensively and then place them in homes meeting the animals needs (no kids/cats etc...) If you have ever applied to adopt then you know it is not easy to get an animal just because you want one.

I hope that the Obamas set the example in this country and choose a rescue dog.

The Washington Animal Rescue League is the premier "no-kill" shelter in DC. I hope the Obamas go there to choose their new pet, and more importantly, give this wonderful organization publicity. It is a model for what shelters SHOULD be like.

We adopted a year old Shih Tzu 6months ago she had been mistreated.It took awhile but she is so much fun and loving now.I highly recomend adopting

Yes, given the number of strays who are put "to sleep" each year in the country, definitely a puppy from the animal shelter and not from a shop or breeder. A mix, and not a pure-bred, please!
Also, make sure the puppy is neutered/spayed -no more addition to the animal population

I too would like to disagree with the ignorant comments made by Elizabeth. I have been doing rescue for many years and the most common reasons I hear (over and over again) for pet relinquishment are moving, having a baby or getting a divorce - none of which have anything to do with the dog!!! There are many, many wonderful dogs in shelters who are sweet, healthy, already trained and who are going to die through no fault of their own. All your comments do is help perpetuate that.

We rescued a year old Schnauzer seven years ago. His previous owner needed to move. All the shelter animals here have had behavioral and health evaluation. Naturally, we immediately brought him to our own vet for evaluation. "Jack" was completely house broken and had no "baggage." We have long been a popular pet therapy team here in Portland. Daniel

I am glad that misdirected Elizabeth comments were addressed. I too adopted a dog from the shelter 5 years ago. She's been such a wonderful addition to my family. After the awful tales of the puppy mills, I hope the Obama's chose the adoption/rescue route. On a different note, I think the name "MAVERICK" would be a great name for their puppy! LOL

I would love them to get a Great Dane pup from rescue. they are absolutely wonderful family dogs.

Puppy mills and shelters aren't the only two options! There are also plenty of purebred dog breeders who are not puppy mills! Has the whole world been brainwashed by PETA? The large majority of shelter dogs have temperament or behavioral issues that would make them unsuitable for adoption into a home with young children. If the Obamas do get a shelter dog, they should get a young puppy so they can raise it correctly rather than inheriting a problem someone else created. I love purebred dogs, but I have to admit that the Obamas have a better chance of getting a healthy dog if they choose a mutt. Sad but true.

Hi. Thanks to all who addressed Elizabeths ignorant comments. I have two shelter dogs and would never pay money for a pure-bred. My babies are wonderful and I could not imagine life without them. I would be so proud if the Obamas adopted, I feel it would be an amazing statement for our country and all the good to come.

I'm thrilled the First Family will consider a shelter dog. I think many people will follow their example and consider giving these wonderful "homeless" dogs homes. We rescued two dogs directly from the street with no knowledge of their temperament or personalities, and they could'nt be more special or loving, and one happens to be a pitbull!! We feel so blessed to have them in our lives.

All 5 of my dogs are rescues. They get along great, are well-trained & very well-behaved. Getting a dog from a responsible breeder is in itself irresponsible. It only contributes to the problem of pet overpopulation. I wish there was a law that banned breeding until EVERY rescue/shelter/stray animal had a permanent loving home. I'm not materialistic so I really don't understand what the big deal is with pure breds. I mean, ALL DOGS are mixed breeds anyway! The phenomenom of a "pure bred" dog simply means that the characteristics breed true litter after litter after litter, but they are ALL mixed breeds.

I'm sorry, folks, but this is ridiculous. I never imagined hearing myself saying this, but there is such a thing as carrying democracy too far. Whatt'ya gonna to be voting on next: whose turn it is at the Obama house to do the dishes? How often Barack has to go to the gym and how many pushups he has to do? How about what Michelle wears
to bed? Please leave this fine young family a modicum of privacy!
P.S. I voted for the shelter dog, but only if it's the cool one in the picture.

I think a boxer mix would be best. As much as i love pits (i have 1) if he got one a lot of people that shouldn't own dogs, because they dont have the time, money or knowledge to have one, would get a pit just because he did. I'd suggest a boxer mix, rescue from a shelter and throw out to spay, neuter and adopt on a nice press release

I think he should adopt a pitbull puppy. It would help to dispare the unfare breed hatred and show that upbringing is more important than breeding. There is no more American dog. There are more pitbulls in need of adoption then any other breed.

I hope they are able to adopt a sweet, healthy rescue, whether purebred or randombred. It's going to be a little hectic in their household for a while, though, and I hope they will wait until they get to DC and settle in. If the girls have ideas about the sort of dog they'd like - size, coat, personality, etc. - perhaps the area rescues and shelters could come up with some candidates? A family visit to a shelter would probably turn into a media circus - not the best atmosphere for choosing a companion.
If one of the girls does have allergies, it might be wiser to go with a purebred from one of the breeds with which people with allergies have had some success. I usually recommend a family with allergy issues spend time at the home of a reputable breeder or rescue to see if the affected person has any reaction. Personally, if they need to consider allergy issues, I'd recommend they check out the Havanese, a member of the Bichon/Maltese family - small but not tiny, sturdy, highly intelligent, playful and seriously cute. Or if they want a larger dog, a Portuguese Water Dog like Ted Kennedy's might do the trick.
Still, I hope they'll be able to adopt a mix. Actually, two would be nice - one for each child, maybe the puppy they're dreaming of now and a more mature, trained dog that can mentor the little one, and will better appreciate its luck in finding such a good, loving home.

I know that there are many gorgeous SIBERIAN HUSKY and ALASKAN MALAMUTEs in Animal Rescues all over this country that need homes. I see their pictures on various Animal Rescue sites on MYSPACE. There are both young pups as well as adult dogs that need loving homes.
The Northern breeds are amazing dogs, They are incredibly beautiful to look at, they are smart, comical, entertaining, and best of all they "smile", as well as talk and better yet "sing" to you. These dogs are athletic, and love to get their exercise, so that would keep the OBAMA girls happy and busy enjoying many activities with them, possibly even "mushing" in the winter.
Other great breeds, if looking for a smaller animal would be an AMERICAN ESKIMO, SHIBA INU, or even a WHIPPET or ITALIAN GREYHOUND.
There are GREYHOUND RESUE all over the US as well. They are beautiful, elegant dogs. The most elegant of all dogs are BORZOIS, or SALUKIs, but I doubt you'd find any of those in a Shelter but then again, you never know.

Remember, President Elect Obama promised his children a "puppy", not a "dog". Less problem with training, no bad habits to break, etc..One hopes the choice will not be a breed that is occupanied with any agressive baggage...Go for a cuddly mutt...

Let them try Poodle Rescue if they really need a hair dog for allergy reasons. I agree, a puppy is best for a growing family. Adult dogs, especially if they have behavior problems, are for adult humans with experience caring for dogs.

"Are they going to find a shelter dog that has been completely health-tested and tested for behaviorial problems?" -Elizabeth

Elizabeth, all shelter dogs are vetted better than Sarah Palin. They are tested for aggressiveness. Getting a pedigreed pup doesn't protect anyone from problems, ask the Bushes, re: Barney.

Posted by: Kate | November 6, 2008 4:06 PM
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What an incredibly ignorant comment, Kate. I have a dog adopted from a shelter (a purebred Pomeranian, no less!), and she is the sweetest girl in the world. A lot of dogs are brought to shelters because people irresponsibly buy from breeders when there is absolutely, 100% no reason to!!! If you think all dogs (or any other companion animal, for that matter) who end up in shelters are there because of behavioral problems, you are sadly mistaken. Educate yourself before forming ridiculous opinions like this.

Why only one? I have seven: two we found and two we bought... and three new puppies.

The WH is big enough for Sasha and Malia to have one each.

What a beautiful First Family!

no home is a real home without a dog in it.

We have a pure bred and very well behaved, (and cute) beagle which we adopted in his first year. He was sitting in the first cage of our local humane society waiting for us when we walked in, looking very unhappy about being there. His "bad" history? The famous beagle nose which led him away from his original owners who never thought to look for him in the humane society.

I don't know that a beagle is a wonderful allergen dog, but our pound doggie sure is a wonderful member of our family. I agree with almost everyone else on this forum, that a dog from a humane society, or from a rescue would set an excellent example.

I'll never forget going to the San Francisco animal shelter when my son took his cat there for a shot. I watched a very sad elderly man bringing in his beautiful chocolate standard poodle. He was weeping as he left his dog there, because he had to go into a nursing home. Afterwards, my husband and I toured the kennels, and if we didn't live 3000 miles away, we might have gone home with two beautiful dogs! I'm sure the Obamas can find the right dog for their children at a shelter!

We choose to look at "Mutts' as having the best of all traits working together! There are fantastic hypoallergenic dogs ie: Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Cockapoos, etc, that are amazing pets, great with kids (we know, we own a Labradoodle), and are available (like all other dog breeds, mutts included) at shelters. We have a website that celebrates these awesome dogs, and have a link on our Links page that will take you directly to a shelter that specializes in the "Hybrid Mutts" Of course if the shelters are not the way President Elect Obama decides to go, we have very responsible breeder information there on the Links page as well. Congratulations to the Obama family!

I AGREE WITH KARA. ELIZABETH ITS NOT THE DOG BUT THE PEOPLE WHO TAKE THEM AS PUPPIES AND THEN FIND OUT THEY NEED TO TRAIN THEM AND DON'T WANT TO SO THEY JUST TAKE THEM TO THE SHELTER OR ABANDON THEM TO BE PICKED UP BY THE SHELTER BECAUSE THEY ARE TO IGNORANT TO TAKE THE TIME TO TRAIN THEM AND LOVE THEM. A DOG IS A MEMBER OF YOUR FAMILY WHEN YOU CHOOSE TO GET ONE AND WOULD YOU JUST ABANDON YOUR CHILD IF IT WAS A LITTLE MORE TROUBLE THAN YOU THOUGHT TO RAISE IT.

make it a hairless cat. they are very loving and affectionate and lots of fun. the girls would love it. they are a bit strange to look at, but you get use to it, and then just like your children, they are the cutest thing you've ever seen.

Let Obama know what the first pup's name and breed should be at http://www.nameobamaspuppy.com.

I think the Labradoodle isn't a bad option, especially since there must be quite a number in rescue by now. Though a puppy might be difficult to find. I laughed out loud at the pit bull named "Lipstick"! Very funny. It would be nice to redeem that breed, but I also agree that that might be too much dog for young kids, and novice owners. If a Greyhound is good for allergic people, that would be a great breed, and there's certainly no shortage in rescue, but again, hard to get a puppy that way. I'm personally a German Shepherd gal, and mine comes from an extremely responsible working lines breeder, and is my Service dog. I had the breed as a kid, too. They're the best!
My vote for the name of the Obama's dog? Hope. (And I would give anything to be able to paint the Presidential Pooch!)

Elizabeth, you should spend some time volunteering at a shelter before you spread more misconceptions... I have a aussie shepherd shelter dog, she's just wonderful and a perfect dog for us. I don't know why she wound up at a shelter, but I can tell you she is well mannered, well trained, gentle, beautiful, loving & full of enthusiasm & big smiles for everyone she meets. We couldn't have asked for a better dog. We just feel lucky to have found her.

I'm not sure that people who are commenting about Elizabeth's comments actually read her comments. For those of you commenting that shelter dogs are health and behavior screened before placement - that is an incorrect statement. Some shelters screen very well, others not all. Most breed rescues, on the other hand, are by their nature more familiar with both the behavioral and health issues of their dogs. Not that there are not disreputable breed rescues; they certainly exist - do your homework on the organization, shelter or rescue, where you plan to adopt .
Most breed rescues are foster-based. That means that every dog in the rescue lives in a home environment where many behaviors and health issues come to light that would not in a shelter. For those brave souls interested in rescuing a dog of unknown history directly from the shelter - good for you, and thank you. But for the more conservative among us, foster-based rescues are a great way to get a dog that typically has had more training (through the rescue program) and been observed in a home environment. And where do you think the rescue dogs come from? Many, if not all, from shelters :) Additionally, thanks to Elizabeth for pointing out that most of the shelter dogs are there because of an owner's failure to train or to spay/neuter their pet. Shelter dogs are failed dogs, even if the failure is not their own but their owners. Finally, I suspect that I speak from more experience than many here who have posted. I am a gateway home where dogs come from shelters, are made physically well, then are sent to foster homes. So I am very familiar with both the health and behavioral problems that dogs from shelters can, but do not always, have. The thousands of dollars spent in vet bills, training and behaviorist consults are a testimony to the needs these dogs still have after leaving some shelters.

Elizabeth's views about shelter dogs are indeed ignorant..... and also idiotic. I'm so proud to see that most of the posts here reflect positive attitudes about shelter dogs! But mostly I am proud of our upcoming First Family for making THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR DOGS!!