Meet the Newest Obama

Bo the Portuguese Water Dog

Photo REUTERS/Jim Young

After months of fierce debate and much speculation in the blogosphere and beyond as to what dog the Obamas would choose, the first family welcomes their eagerly anticipated puppy, promised to the girls, Malia and Sasha, during the presidential campaign.

The lucky dog is Bo, a six-month-old male Portuguese Water Dog, a gift from Senator Edward Kennedy, who has Porties himself and is know for his love of the breed. Malia and Sasha chose the moniker, inspired by their cousin’s cat of the same name. Their parents are said to call the dog “Diddley.”

Following his election-night puppy promise, Obama had said the family hoped to adopt a hypoallergenic rescue dog because of Malia’s allergies. While the Portuguese Water Dog certainly meets the low-shedding coat requirement, many are disappointed Bo didn’t come from a shelter or breed-specific rescue. However, the president and first lady reportedly plan to donate to the Washington Humane Society to support their original intentions. And that’s a message we can get behind.

Welcome to the White House, Bo!