US President Barack Obama's decision to tab a Portuguese water dog as his family's pet has prompted a boost of interest in the canine breed, experts say.

Illinois-based toy giant Ty Inc has released a fresh litter of Beanie Babies based on President Barack Obama's Portuguese water dog, Bo.

The Obamas' watch dog may not be very big but the media dog watch has been huge, with the latest news being the US first family's best friend is named Bo.

By Nancy Bartley, Seattle Times Feb. 10--She has bewitching eyes and dark, curly hair, but Pickles isn't just any pretty face. Laurie Hardman's Portuguese water dog is a rare, Westminster-bound show dog who's also a service dog, capable of detecting Hardman's seizures before they happen.