Sasha and Malia's new water dog?
Sasha and Malia Obama, as my fellow blogger Mary Corey reported yesterday at our new pets blog Unleashed, may soon become the owners of a Portuguese water dog. Though apparently the breed is still up for debate, Michelle Obama is pushing for the water dog.
Here's the thing, girls -- as Mary reports, this dog needs lots of exercise. And Michelle Obama has made clear that Sasha and Malia are going to be primarily responsible for helping the dog get it.
This brings up an issue for the readers here. When young kids beg for a pet, what are the rules about who will do what to take care of it? And if the kids end up shirking their duties once the cute puppy or sweet kitten has joined your family, do the parents pick up the slack?
If not, how do they enforce the pre-pet agreements?
AP Photo/Mary Altaffer
Comments
From experience, I can tell you that a lot of so-called pet behavior problems are actually normal, breed-appropriate behaviors that results from a bad fit with the family. So before getting a dog, research the breed beforehand, so you know if you have the time and ability to take care of it. If you live in a tiny apartment and work 12 hour days, for the love of God, don't get a herding dog.
Posted by: Kayris | February 26, 2009 1:19 PM
A great source for how to deal with pets is "Animals make us Human" by
Temple Grandin.
Posted by: oldfiddler | February 27, 2009 5:37 AM
this is an ungly dog!!
Posted by: bhjb | February 28, 2009 4:21 PM
As an owner of 2 PWDs, I can tell you these are not dogs for the novice dog owner. They are extremely loving & wonderful with children, but need alot of attention. They need plenty of exercise & when indoors need chew toys or they find something to chew. :-) The parents are ultimately responsible for the care of the dog. The Obamas should consider another breed for their busy lifestyle, if they truly want their girls responsible for the dog.
Posted by: J & A | February 28, 2009 5:55 PM