[IMG]http://simplefeed.consumerreports.org/rsrc/i/1/_/portuguese_water_dog_labradoodle_vie_for_key_whi_9 49062013/4.gif?f=3dcb3160-01dc-11dc-32a2-0019bbc55f7f&s=AewyNia7NTvDvhaDemju5DEsbnVsbCwwLDA *[/IMG] Portuguese Water Dog, Labradoodle vie for key White House post
When First Lady Michelle Obama hinted that that the First Family was likely to choose a Portuguese Water Dog over a Labradoodle, it set off heated debates about each of these breeds.
Both are related to the poodle and are known to be good with children. Their coats are less likely to aggravate allergies, key since Malia Obama is allergic to dogs. Neither sheds, though the White House cleaning crew might want to read our latest report on vacuums (available to subscribers) to find a model that can handle some of the messes the First Puppy makes.
The American Kennel Club breed profile page for the Portuguese notes the breed's long history of useful service to fishermen. Labradoodles, originating from Australia as a Labrador Retriever-Poodle hybrid, are not recognized by the American Kennel Club but they do have plenty of fans. (The dog shown is Sadie, a colleague's multigenerational Australian Labradoodle, at about 4 months.)

While the First Pooch will no doubt get first-rate care in the White House, the information below might come in handy for the Obamas or for you, no matter the type of dog you have or are considering:
Evacuating pets in an emergency.
Buying pet food, including cost and labeling.
Avoiding salmonella in pet food.
Ensuring pet safety when traveling.
Choosing a vet and paying for pet care.


Essential information: Can Rex Plus, a high-tech virtual watchdog, boost home security if you don't own a dog?

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