Most Popular Pets in United States
Quick answer
The most popular pet in the United States is the dog, kept in more households than any other animal, followed closely by cats. Freshwater fish are the most numerous pets by sheer count, with birds, small mammals, and reptiles also widely kept.
Pet culture in United States
The United States has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, and more than half of all American households share their home with at least one pet. Dogs are kept in the largest share of homes, but cats are not far behind, and many families keep more than one species at once.
The most popular pets in United States
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Dogs
Found in more US homes than any other pet; the Labrador Retriever was the country's favorite breed for decades before the French Bulldog surged to the top.
See the top 10 dog breeds -
Cats
Kept in roughly a third of households, and there are tens of millions of pet cats nationwide thanks to owners who often keep several at a time.
See the top 10 cat breeds -
Fish
Aquarium fish are the most numerous pets in the country by population, because a single tank can hold many fish at once.
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Birds
Parakeets, cockatiels, and finches are the most common pet birds in American homes.
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Small mammals and reptiles
Hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, and beginner reptiles like bearded dragons are popular first pets for children.
Meet the bearded dragon
Interesting facts about pets in United States
- Americans spend more on their pets than almost any other nation, from food and toys to veterinary care.
- The French Bulldog became the most registered dog breed in the US, ending the Labrador Retriever's long reign at the top.
- By population, pet fish outnumber dogs and cats because aquariums house so many fish per home.
Frequently asked questions about pets in United States
What is the most popular pet in the United States?
Dogs are the most popular pet in the United States, kept in more households than any other animal. Cats are the second most popular and are kept in roughly a third of homes.
Do more Americans own cats or dogs?
More American households own dogs than cats, but because cat owners often keep more than one, the total number of pet cats and pet dogs in the country is very close.
What is the most common first pet for American children?
Small, low-cost pets such as goldfish, hamsters, and guinea pigs are common first pets for children in the United States, often before a family adopts a dog or cat.