Voice of the Mid-Columbia | Kennewick, Pasco and Richland, Wash. |
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closeMonday, Mar. 09, 2009
Pasco breeder worries about spotlight on Obama dog
By Dalina Castellanos, Herald staff writer
PASCO -- The likely choice of a Portuguese water dog for the nation's first family has at least one Tri-Cities breeder a little concerned.
First lady Michelle Obama has alluded that the family is looking to rescue one of the breed come April. And Anne Rettig, who breeds Portuguese water dogs in Pasco, says she hopes the Obama family carefully considers its choice.
"These dogs aren't suited for everyone," Rettig said. "They're not the kind you put in the backyard with a bone and go off to work."
She and other breeders also fear the 101 Dalmatians effect, when some families bought Dalmatians as a result of the 1996 movie but later surrendered them to shelters because they found the energetic dogs too hyper for children.
"They're fabulous family dogs," she said. "As long as you understand that the dog is an integral part of the family and not just a pet."
The breed is known for its history as sailors' companions off the coast of Portugal, recognized for its ability to do hard labor and swim. The dogs were trained to herd fish into nets, retrieve lost tackle or broken nets or to act as a courier from ship to ship or ship to shore, according to the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America.
Rettig describes the breed as needing consistent exercise. "They have a lot of stamina and are incredibly intelligent," she said.
If not intellectually challenged, the dog "will find something to do. They're notorious chewers."
For those more serious about the breed, Rettig suggests researching breeders because of the recent spike in popularity.
"We don't want people breeding willy-nilly, but it can happen," she said. "(Other breeders) have worked so hard to save these dogs, we don't want to see the breed compromised."
Families looking to jump on the bandwagon can enjoy a loyal companion, but for a pretty penny. The national price range is $1,800 to $2,500 for an American Kennel Club-certified puppy.
As for the first family, Rettig hopes there will be enough energy and attention available to satisfy the pooch.
"I don't know what life in the White House is like with everyone's busy schedules," she said. "Maybe the staff has a doggie person -- that would be fabulous."
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