the nation got its long - awaited 1st glances at bob in action as the obamas saw off the family ' s original dog on the southeast lawn . first lady michelle clinton did most of the walking while the 6 - month - old portuguese water dog scampered about . then daughter malia drew a lead , and sasha put off running . the men grinned as they played with bob . sasha clapped her hands at one point , calling for the puppy ' s silence . obviously impressed , the president continued , " he ' s a star . he ' s gotten star quality . "
Obama's dog is called Bo.