15 April,2009 02:10 PM IST | | PTI
First dog is nothing new for the White House. But 'Bo' - the latest one to occupy the position - has gained instant stardom in the US, with even President Barack Obama terming it 'a star'.
"It is spectacular and well-deserved. He's a star. He's got star quality," Obama said, as the first family stepped out on the sprawling White House lawns with 'Bo' - the six-months-old Portuguese water dog.
Displayed in front of about 100 reporters and photographers, the first dog did not bark as Obama said: "That's a good-looking dog, let's face it."
The black and white puppy is Obama's gift to his daughters - 10-year-old Malia and seven-year-old Sasha, in line with a promise he made on his election victory night.
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"I love him. He is perfect," said Malia, when asked about it by her father. "Now, the only concern we have is, apparently, Portuguese water dogs like tomatoes. Michelle's garden is in danger," Obama said amidst laughter, referring to the new vegetable garden, which the First Lady is developing in the White House.
But Michelle interrupted, saying: "I do not think, we have tomatoes yet." Obama said the family will take turns walking Bo, who has his own little spot in the White House.
The puppy will be also be allowed in the Oval Office. However, when asked where Bo will sleep, Obama said: "Not in my bed".
As the story of the First Dog was aired on all major television network, questions about it were also asked at the daily White House press briefing.
"I don't know the exact movements of the dog. I know later this afternoon, weather permitting, the dog will be outside - if not, the dog will be inside," White House spokesman Robert Gibbs told reporters in response to a question earlier.
"Does the dog speak Spanish?" asked a reporter. "The dog has also not talked to the Spanish about impending torture cases," Gibbs said.
As White House reporters were eager to get a chance to have a glimpse of the First Dog, Gibbs said: "You'll get a chance to see the dog. You'll get a chance to see them (first family) with the dog. Thus concludes my official comments on the dog."
