Malia and Sasha have a dog! It is a Portuguese water dog, a fairly rare breed that has been named Bo. The Obama's dog was a gift from Senator Edward Kennedy who has several Portuguese water dogs including a two dogs from from Bo's breeder and and a third dog from Bo's litter.
Bo is six months old and has already had four homes. He was born in Texas, moved to the first owner's home in Washington D.C. and then spent almost a month with Senator Kennedy's dog trainer in Virginia. Bo is now home with the Obama's at 1600 Pennnsylvania Avenue.
Many of us are not familiar with this breed. Portuguese water dogs are prized for their strength and spirit and are commonly known as a Portie. They are loyal workers and companians and are described as athletic, active and intelligent. They respond well to obedience training and need daily vigorous exercise. In earlier times, Portuguese water dogs were taught to herd fish into fishermen's nets and to retrieve lost tackle or broken nets.
The coat of a Portuguese water dog is known to not shed much as is the single-coated breed of Poodles, Bichon Frises and some terriers. One of the Obama daughter's has allergies so this breed is a good choice. Portuguese water dogs get along well with children and require regular brushing, cutting or clipping. They are people-oriented and want to be with the family. They do not do well in kennels or left alone for a long time.
The male Portuguese water dog grows to 22 inches in height and the females grow to 17 to 23 inches in height at the shoulders. The weight for males ranges from 42 to 60 pounds; the females weight can range from 35 to 50 pounds.
Bo is now needing to gain trust and respect from the Obamas. Those of us who have had dogs know it is all about setting and carrying out a daily routine. Bo will bring joy to Malia and Sasha and their parents. How great for an energetic dog like Bo to greet our President at the end of each day!
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