Obama's Great First Dog Dilemma

Obama Puppies

Asked what kind of dog he plans to buy for Malia and Sasha, Barack Obama said it's a tossup between a purebred and a mutt like him. Most importantly, it must be hypoallergenic. No worries, Mr. President-elect & Co. We've got it all figured out. Here, our countdown of the top 15 hypoallergenic dogs.

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#14: Maltese

Lap dogs for royalty and companions for the rest of us, Maltese are elegant, affectionate and playful. Unfortunately, they are prone to over-pampering, which can lead to obsessive barking and snappiness with outsiders. That won't work.

David Rogowski, AOL

#13: Portuguese Water Dog

These wooly canines can't spend enough time in the water. So while they are obedient and playful, unless the Obamas plan on spending a lot of time on the Potomac -- or let this guy take up residence in the White House pool -- it isn't a good match.

Alex Korab, AOL

#12: West Highland White Terrier

Who could resist that face? Well, the Obama family should. Here's the challenge of the breed: "Many experienced, as well as inexperienced, dog owners are overwhelmed by the [dogs'] demands." Pass.

Morgan Riehl, AOL

#11: Schnauzer

There are three sizes: standard, miniature and giant. All are considered good family dogs, but with the following caveat: "Like a mischievous and very bright child, they need consistent rules and a firm, but not rough, hand. They will get away with whatever they can and will "rule the roost" before you know it, if allowed." One world leader at time, please.

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#10: Airedale Terrier

This pup will do wonders for the president-elect's military cred: Airedale Terriers were long considered the world's top war dog. They are obedient, calm and jolly. But they require weekly brushing and combing, which may aggravate Malia's allergies. Pass.

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#9: Bichon Frise

This adorable white powder puff is all a little girl could ask her. BFs are described as gentle, playful and affectionate. What could be bad? How about their notorious separation anxiety when left alone for even a few hours, often resulting in destructive chewing. Nope.

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#8: Italian Greyhound

This tiny greyhound thrives indoors and is happiest with its (human) family. That is, unless the family includes rambunctious children. And talk about high maintenance. IGs require daily teeth brushing and need their nails ground down twice weekly.

Morgan Riehl, AOL

#7: Poodle

Do not be fooled. Poodles may look highfalutin, but they are way intelligent and well-behaved -- even funny. The hitch is that they're known to be fearful and aggressive with poor breeding or improper socialization. Or, what's often known as a shelter dog.

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#6: Shih Tzu

This little guy was breed for centuries in Chinese Imperial courts for one reason and only one reason: to be a companion and house pet. Fine, but lets save the ribbons and bows for Malia and Sasha.

David Rogowski, AOL