Nov 10, 2008 10:26 pm US/Eastern
Keller: Bad K9 Choice Could Put Obama In Dog House
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
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Golden Retriever (File Image)
AP
Many difficult decisions confront President-elect Barack Obama over the coming weeks, but perhaps none will be more controversial than how he delivers on a promise he made to his daughters – a new dog to keep them company in the White House.
The decision will be a tough one, because the dog he chooses will inevitably provoke a public reaction that could turn the White House into a dog house.
Reporter: Everyone wants to know what kind of dog you are going to buy.
Obama: With respect to the dog, this is a major issue.
You can say that again, Mr. President-elect.
Obama may think the nation's first dog will be an internal family choice, but the truth is, his decision will send an early signal about his presidential style.
Obama could go with the ever-popular Golden Retriever, a sociable breed that would project renewed American friendliness to the world. But Goldens are notoriously passive and easy to befriend. In a dangerous world, can Obama afford to take on a canine appeaser?
If he wants to convey toughness, Obama might consider a Rottweiler, an aggressive breed known to make excellent guard dogs. But Rottweiler's rank low for obedience. Can the new president afford to be seen as unable to control his own pet?
Obama's obvious intelligence won him many votes, and he might underscore that quality by adopting a Collie, one of the smartest breeds. Plus, who among us does not love Lassie?
I thought so.
And if it's intensity he wants to model, there are many reasons to choose a high-energy Dalmatian.
But no matter what he does, some dog lovers will approve, and some will not.
My advice to Obama: This decision is too important to pander with by, say, choosing a Bassett Hound to pacify hunters, or courting the Europeans with a Bulldog, French Poodle or German Shepherd.
But choose carefully. The wrong choice could hound him indefinitely.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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