Experts suggest dogs for Obama

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 (UPI) -- President-elect Barack Obama's promise to bring a puppy to the White House for his daughters has sparked a flurry of breed suggestions from U.S. experts.

The American Kennel Club said the best dog for Malia Obama, 10, would be the hairless Chinese Crested because it would not agitate her asthma, the Chicago Sun-Times reported Thursday.

"Certain to turn heads," the breed is "exceptionally loving and affectionate with children," the AKC said.

However, a public poll conducted by the AKC found the majority of respondents believe a poodle would be a perfect pet for the Obamas.

California breeder Suzanne Morris said she is offering an $800 pedigree Labrador retriever puppy to the Obamas.

"It's a very, very mellow (dog) and easy with children," Morris said.

Paula Fasseas, founder of PAWS Chicago, suggested Obama choose a shelter dog for his family.

"I envision a wonderful shelter dog -- a mixed breed that's hypoallergenic," Fasseas said. "Not too big, not too little. Something nice for the girls to really play with."