Thousands of dog lovers vote for “best breed for the Obamas” in national poll.


The Poodle is poised to be the next presidential dog, that is, if the votes cast by 42,000 people influence Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama when selecting a family dog.

The seven-week campaign resulted in a tight race between the Poodle and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, with the Poodle clinching the nomination by a few hundred votes. Other contenders included the Miniature Schnauzer, Bichon Frise, and Chinese Crested – breeds picked because they’re easier on allergy sufferers, and one of the Obama daughters has allergies. Poodles are the only breed that comes in three sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard.

“When times get tough – during a bad economy or when presidential pressures are at their peak – these dogs serve as devoted and non-judgmental companions that bring joy and relaxation to our first families,” said Lisa Peterson, spokeswoman for the American Kennel Club.

The AKC launched a national poll to find a breed for the Obama family after reports that – win or lose – Obama promised his daughters, Malia and Sasha, a dog after the Nov. 4 presidential election.