The family has taken their time researching breeds, reportedly narrowing the field down to either a Portuguese water dog or a Labradoodle, a cross between a Labrador retriever and a standard poodle. Spending time figuring out what sort of dog will fit in with a family is important for anyone considering getting a dog, Ramsey said. For the Obama family, finding a so-called “hypo-allergenic” breed was a priority because the couple’s older daughter, 10-year-old Malia, is allergic to dogs. Though no breed of dog or cat is truly hypoallergenic, some breeds are less likely to trigger allergic reactions than others, explained Dr. Ramsey said he hopes people won’t just adopt the same kind of dog out of admiration, without considering whether the dog fits in with their lifestyle. There are a number of Web sites to help people choose what dog breed is right for their family.

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