Famous Children's Dogs

According to a survey conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, people in the U.S. own about 77.5 million dogs. That equates to 39 percent of U.S. households having at least one dog, a number that reveals just how important our four-legged friends are to us. Many of those same homes with dogs are inhabited by children whose love of dogs is just as great as mankind's love for them. And while most of those children are not famous, there are a few children and dogs (both fictional and nonfictional) that are easily recognizable.

  1. Malia and Sasha Obama and Bo

    • Malia, 13, and Sasha, 9, are the well-known daughters of President Barack Obama and wife Michelle. Since Malia's allergies deemed it necessary to find a hypoallergenic breed, the family finally decided to accept a male Portuguese Water Dog, also known as a Portie, as a gift from Senator Ted Kennedy.

      The girls chose the name Bo after their cousin's cat (also named Bo) and because of their maternal grandfather's nickname, Diddley (like Bo Diddley). The American Kennel Club defines this breed of dog as "an animal of spirited disposition, self-willed, brave and very resistant to fatigue."

    Dorothy and Toto

    • While the 1939 movie "The Wizard of Oz" is still a classic today, one can't think of its main star, Dorothy, unless they also think of her dog, Toto. Played by a female brindle cairn terrier, Toto was actually on the payroll during the production of "The Wizard of Oz" and made $125 a week.

      Cairn terriers are known for their animation, loyalty and curiosity. They are especially good dogs with children since they love to play and are so friendly.

    Timmy and "Lassie"

    • Although the show "Lassie" which ran from 1954 to 1973 was a fictional show about the adventures of a collie and her charge, Timmy Martin, when one conjures up famous children and their dogs, this pair definitely comes to mind.

      Several dogs actually played the role of Lassie during this time period, but all were collies which are known for their beauty and "near-human intelligence." Additionally, collies are working dogs that are fearless yet still gentle, as well as sensitive and prone to boredom due to repetition.

    Emily Elizabeth and Clifford the Big Red Dog

    • Most people have heard of Clifford The Big Red Dog and his best friend, a 10-year-old girl named Emily Elizabeth. While both Clifford and Emily are fictional characters created by author Norman Bridwell in 1963, they still continue to delight fans today. Bridwell said of Clifford "(He) does what you'd like to do but can't. Because Clifford is so big and also because he's a dog, he's able to do the most unbelievable and imaginative things." Clifford's character is based on a sketch featuring a tiny girl with a large bloodhound. Bloodhounds are described as good natured and comfortable around children.