Washington ? The White House could soon hear the pitter-patter of padded paws.

More than five months after promising his daughters a new puppy, President Barack Obama hinted Friday that the new first puppy could make his debut at the annual Easter Egg Roll on Monday.

The dog’s arrival date and breed have been a popular parlor game for White House watchers, with everyone from Barbara Walters and Jay Leno to PETA and the Portuguese Embassy offering advice.

During a “Tonight Show” appearance last month, the president said daughters Malia and Sasha would get their new puppy after he returned from NATO meetings in Europe. With the meetings concluded, first lady Michelle Obama told reporters Thursday that the dog would be coming “soon … so soon.”

The president went even further Friday after giving a statement on the economy.

“When is the dog coming?” a reporter shouted.

“Oh, man, now, that’s top secret,” Obama said, prompting laughter, according to a White House transcript. “That’s top secret.”