A note of caution about the Westie

OK, we know that President-elect Barack Obama’s daughters want a Westie, but would it be a good fit for daughter Malia, who has allergies? Dog expert Dr. Stanley Coren says yes, contrary to most others, but with reservations:

“Although they can be a delight to have around terriers bark and can be hard to handle and train,” he writes.  Better to leave that breed (whose official name is West Highland White Terrier) to experienced dog owners.

Read more here.

Comments

[Pet Food Container Observer]

I don't think that its a good decision to give your daughter a westie even that she had a allergies.

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The allergies will not increase depending on the hair of the dog, meaning if is more hair it is going to give more allergy to the person who suffer it.

[Poptropica]

Carolyn, you hit the jackpot on this. The first family indeed took a Portuguese Water Dog. Intelligent, great swimmer and more importantly hypo-allergenic.

[Gai M]

A male westie would be ideal for Malia and Sasha. Our family has raised more than 8 westies for over 40 years and they are amazing animals. Since I am allergic to dogs, this breed was perfect for us. I would choose a male over the female. The females are overly independent and the males have a milder temperment. With proper training, they will be life-time Westie afficiandos within a short time. We have three Westies and life is fun, crazy, sweet, silly and wouldn't trade it in a minute. Even my bossy little girl, Chloe.

[Lauren Growall]

A Westie is a wonderful choice! I'm of course biased on the decision ( I have two very handsome male Westies, Winston & Kerby) but of all the dog breeds I've owned a Westie would be best suited for their situation. They barely shed, hypo-allergenic, sweet tempered, low maintenance and very regal. Neither of my boys have been big chewers (they are more than happy with their toys) and both were easily potty trained. It would also (sadly) be very easy for the Obamas to rescue a Westie from a shelter. I wish them the best of luck!

[mdb123]

I think a Westie is a great choice. I've had 3 and all were spunky, playful and loving pups. Although I would not recommend them for families with very small children(under 4), both of the President-Elect's daughters are old enough for a Westie and I think they would enjoy the little white dog's energy and BIG personality. The fact that Westies are considered desireable for those with pet allergies is just icing on the cake! If President Bush could have '2 scotties' in the White House, I think the place is just about broken in and ready for one little white Westie :)

[paul]

Westies are ideal for folks with allergies. That's why I got one and have had no problems.

[Rindi]

The Obamas choice for a Westie would be the best possible decision they would make by bringing a loyal, sturdy, regal looking, loving terrier into the Whitehouse. Ive had nothing but Westies for 24 years.
Males are sweeter and mellow while the females are loving and independent. They are a joy and I wouldnt even consider another breed as the Westies have all proven to be perfect housedogs, intelligent, easily trained, and not alot of hair shedding.
The girls will love them.

[Carolyn Hun]

Here's a thought ~ A Portuguese Water Dog! Intelligent, non-shedding, medium size (no wimpy dogs for the new First Family!), soft coat, wonderful to pet, great swimmer and diver, and hypo-allergenic!

I'm going to get one for myself SOON, a female. Her name will be Junebug!