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The best dog for the Obamas

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It's been a long road, and Americans are demanding to know the results. So while the candidates have been living it up on the campaign trail, the DogTime team has been working hard to provide this country the news it's waited so long for: the definitive list of dog breeds best suited for the Obama family. The best news is that the Obamas have decided to adopt, so no matter whether you lean elephant or donkey, anyone with a bent towards canines can rest assured it's a good day for one lucky shelter dog.

Visit our Obama dog page for the latest news and updates on the presidential dog search.

The Obama dog selection criteria

Good with kids
Another no-brainer. This is a pet for a seven- and a ten-year-old. Of course the new pup must be kid friendly.

Good for novice owners
These dogs are typically not the shy, nervous sorts. They bounce back from inconsistency, remain friendly and happy-go-lucky, and don't seem to mind if their owners don't exactly know what they're doing.

Easy to train
We have a feeling the Obamas are going to be pretty busy. They'll need a dog who quickly learns how to behave, what's expected, and which way is fastest to the White House lawn.

Easy going
Dogs thrive on routine. That said, some pups are more flexible than others, and the Obamas will need one who can roll with all the hustle and bustle, throngs of visitor, and general unpredictability of life in the White House.

Best breeds (and breed mixes) for the Obamas

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
While we generally think of Labradors and Golden Retrievers as the all-American dog, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier can be every bit as kid friendly, affectionate, easy-going, and spirited. Often an excellent option for allergy sufferers, the Wheaten is DogTime's first choice for the Obamas. While they may not be flooding local shelters, there are rescue groups around the country devoted to this breed. At the moment, there are even a few available for adoption in the Washington D. C. area. (Yep, we checked.)

Poodle
The Poodle is almost as polarizing as politics itself - people tend to love them or hate them. But whether you're enchanted with or unnerved by their distinct looks and reputation for outsmarting their owners, they make excellent family dogs: They're great with kids, friendly toward strangers, and quick studies when it comes to training. Bonus feature: Poodles tend not to be big droolers, which can only be a good thing if you think about the fancy White House furniture.

Shih Tzu
Never used for hunting, guarding, or herding purposes, there's not a mean bone in the Shih Tzu's body. He's a companion dog to the core, so if the Obama girls are looking for a cuddle companion, this pup's the one. And despite copious amounts of hair, the Shih Tzu is not a big shedder and tends to be easy on allergy sufferers.

Portuguese Water Dog
The fun-loving Portuguese Water Dog can fill the role of energetic playmate for the girls - or loyal running mate (move over, Joe) should the President need a jogging partner. This dog is intelligent, good-natured, and highly trainable, which means he's a great choice for novice owners. If nothing else, this dog will make for a great impression should the Ambassador from Portugal drop in for a visit.

Bichon Frise
With her stuffed animal looks and gentle disposition, the Bichon Frise seems tailor-made for a couple of preteen girls. She's people oriented and delightfully agreeable, happy simply to be part of the family. And thanks to a low SPF (Shedding Potential Factor), the Bichon Frise could be the answer to Malia's dog allergies.

What type of dog do you think the Obamas should adopt? Post a comment and add to our list.

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