The word “pet” conjures images of enthusiastic dogs and cats. These furry friends have become an integral part of many people’s lives. According to the 2021-2022 National Pet Owners Survey, around 70% of households own at least one pet. But are dogs and cats the only pets in the world? Are pets different from other domestic animals? These questions might have crossed your mind if you’re trying to learn more about pets.

Domesticated animals and pets – What’s the difference?
Domesticated animals, by definition, are bred to live in captivity by humans for economic purposes, such as producing meat, dairy products, wool, leather, or plowing the land for agricultural purposes.

Although domestic animals are pets in a way, both are different. A pet is an animal or bird kept by humans primarily for companionship. Unlike domesticated livestock, these animals have an emotional connection with their owner and other family members and stay with them in the household.

Which animals count as pets?
Almost any animal can become a pet, but there are certain animals, birds, and even fish that are considered pets by most people. These include, but are not limited to: dogs, cats, fish, parrots, turtles, snakes, frogs, parrots, cockatoos, parakeets, hamsters, rabbits, mice, rats, guinea pigs, and ferrets.

Most popular pets in homes
People all over the country are unconditionally fond of animals. But there are a few pets we love to have more than others. Here are the most popular pets in the country:

Dogs
Dogs are the most popular pets in the world. About 69 million families in the country have dogs, according to the latest National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association. There are several reasons behind dogs’ insane popularity. They’re incredibly loyal and protective, easy to train, not very expensive to feed, and absolutely adorable. Not to mention, they get along well with kids and adults alike. Dogs come in many different breeds; the most popular dog breed in the country is the Labrador Retriever. Other typical pet dog breeds include French Bulldog, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Poodle, Bulldog, Beagle, and Rottweiler.

Cats
The English brought cats to North America a few centuries ago to help control the problem of rodents. Little did they know that more than 45 million families in the country would adopt a cat sometime in the future. Yes, cats are the second most popular pets. They may not be as loyal as dogs, but they have unique traits that people can’t help but fall in love with, such as curiosity, playfulness, introversion, independence, and affection. Some popular cat breeds include Ragdoll, Exotic Shorthair, Persian, Maine Coon, Siamese, American Shorthair, Scottish Fold, and Devon Rex.

Fish
Nearly 12% of households in the country have at least one fish in their home aquarium, making it the third most popular pet. People like to keep fish because they complement their interior and are easy to care for and maintain. Pet fish also comes in multiple breeds. Freshwater fish, like Goldfish, Cory Catfish, Mollies, and Swordtails, are more popular than saltwater fish, such as Hawkfish, Clownfish, Diamond Goby, and Green Chromis, mainly because they’re far less cheap to maintain.

Birds
Birds are a delight to watch and even listen to. No wonder they’re the fourth-most-common pets, dwelling in almost 10 million homes in the country. People particularly love birds who can mimic human speech, such as parrots and cockatiels. Other friendly, gorgeous birds who make for ideal pets include Budgerigars (or budgies), Doves, Green-cheeked Conures, Cockatoos, Hyacinth macaws, Parakeets, and Finches.

Reptiles
While many people are scared of reptiles, others are crazy about them, so much so that they keep them in their houses. Reptiles are commonly seen as pets in the country, with more than 5.5 million households owning them. Common species found in homes are the Leopard Gecko, Corn Snake, Bearded Dragon, African Sulcata Tortoise, Ball Python, Red-eared Slider, Chameleon, and Blue-tongued Skink. For some animal lovers, reptiles make a great pet because they are usually quiet, don’t need training, are low-maintenance, and live longer than most other pets.

Hamsters
Perhaps you already know someone who owns a hamster. After all, more than 1.5 million people in the country have this pet in their homes. These rodents are immensely cute, cuddly, and pleasant to hold, and that’s why people can’t get enough of them. In addition, hamsters make an excellent pet because they don’t require extensive training, are inexpensive to feed, have minimum spatial needs, and don’t constantly demand attention.