Putin Gets Puppy Surprise in Bulgaria

Nov 16th 2010

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin had something extra to celebrate yesterday after inking a deal to build 2,200 miles of pipeline across Bulgaria to export Russian gas to European markets: He also got a brand new puppy!

During a press conference about the pipeline deal, Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borisov nonchalantly announced, "I would like to give Vladimir Putin a Bulgarian karakachan and hope that this Bulgarian dog will make him happy." Check out the video below to see the surprised look come over Putin's stern poker face. Classic!

The two leaders stood as the super-cute sheepdog was carried across the stage and placed in Putin's arms. Not exactly sure how to react, the Russian tough-guy cradles the dog's muzzle in his hand and plants a nice big smooch on the top of its fuzzy head.

Of course, we never recommend giving pets as gifts without the soon-to-be pet owner's prior consent, especially not a sheepdog that can grow as large as 130 pounds, according to the Karakachan Dog Association of America website. That would be totally irresponsible. Still, Putin seemed genuinely happy with his new canine friend. And we're pretty sure he has the resources available to provide the dog with excellent care.

Who knows, maybe the whole surprise gift thing was staged and Putin already has a new kennel, fully-stocked with chew toys back home waiting for the pup. If so, he's a better actor than we had previously thought. That surprised, kind of panicked look in his eyes still has us in stitches.

According to the BBC, Prime Minister Putin already has a Labrador named Connie at home, along with a Siberian tiger he received as a birthday gift in 2008. Let's hope the new Karakachan sheepdog makes fast friends with Putin's other pets.

And in the meantime, Putin is asking the Russian people to nominate names for the new pup, reports NPR.