Lab Is Top US Dog, 18 Years and Counting

(NEWSER) - Did President Obama fulfill his pledge to adopt a shelter pooch by taking in a pricey purebred that had been returned to its breeders? That’s a question being hotly debated among animal-rescue groups, the Hill reports. The Humane Society, which got a donation from Obama when he decided to go with the Portuguese water dog, says he’s in the clear; others claim the president dropped the ball. More»

First pup sparks debate on canine awareness

(NEWSER) - Bo may have the president of the United States trotting along after him like a kid and the national media swooning, but what goes on in the brain underneath that ball of black fur? The owner of this year's Westminster champ tells the New york Times that pooches become aware of their celebrity. "They know they’re famous," she says, "and they definitely get an attitude." Others beg to differ. More»

43% want first family to get pooch from shelter

(NEWSER) - A majority of Americans think the First Family should adopt a mutt, according to an AP poll. While the nation’s pet-less are split on the issue, pet owners, who represent 60% of the population, went 2-1 in favor of a mixed breed. That may not be enough to sway the president-elect: He recently said he’s leaning toward a purebred. More»

It's possible: JFK killed the hat

(NEWSER) - Fashion experts have their eyes on Barack Obama with a burning question: Can he inspire the young men of America to pull up their pants? The president-elect himself has said it's time to end the low-ride movement, and some have trotted out the (disputed) comparison of JFK single-handedly killing the hat industry. Clyde Haberman of the New York Times makes the rounds and finds there's at least some hope for change on the pants front. More»

Not cute or furry, but Peruvian Hairless loves kids, is hypoallergenic

(NEWSER) - Peru may hold the solution to the president-elect’s canine conundrum, the Telegraph reports. The Peruvian Hairless, a dog with ancient Inca origins, is hypoallergenic and family friendly, perfect for Obama’s allergic daughter Malia; a puppy has been offered to the incoming first family. “If we send it to the United States, its official name will be Machu Picchu,” said the director of the Friends of the Peruvian Hairless Dog Association. More»