Top 10 Animals Perfect for Pet Ownership

In ancient times, domesticated animals fulfilled essential roles like providing food and security. Over time, some evolved into cherished companions. With practicality no longer the priority, what are the ideal animals to keep as pets in modern homes?

Today, cats aren’t needed to control rodents, nor are dogs required to protect livestock. Yet, many still invite animals into their homes. The American Pet Products Association National Pet Owners Survey reveals that 66% of U.S. households include at least one pet.

We’ve compiled a list of 10 popular household pets, extending beyond the typical choices like dogs, cats, and fish. However, thorough research is essential before welcoming a furry, feathery, or scaly companion into your home. The ideal pets seamlessly integrate into your family, but remember, they are living creatures that demand consistent care and attention.

10. Guinea Pig

The guinea pig (Cavia porcellus), a small rodent first domesticated in Peru 3,000 years ago, was initially bred for food. Similar to rabbits, guinea pigs gained popularity as household pets during the 19th century.

The American Cavy Breeders Association acknowledges 13 distinct breeds, ranging from the short-haired Abyssinian to the curly-coated Texel.

Weighing between 1 to 3 pounds (0.5 to 1.4 kg) and measuring 8 to 16 inches (20.3 to 40.6 cm) in length, guinea pigs are small yet surprisingly high-maintenance pets. Their bedding requires daily cleaning, and they are a long-term commitment, with lifespans typically reaching 7 to 8 years.

Before adopting a guinea pig, it’s important to understand that these highly social creatures thrive in pairs. The Swiss Animal Protection Ordinance mandates that guinea pigs, among other species, “must be housed in groups of at least two.”

Other pets classified as highly social include canaries, chinchillas, cockatoos, degus, estrildid finches, gerbils, Japanese quails, lovebirds, macaws, mice, parakeets, parrots, and rats.

The animal shelter or pet store where you acquire your guinea pigs should provide guidance on which individuals are compatible for pairing or grouping.

9. Betta Fish

Fish are excellent low-maintenance pets, requiring only daily feeding and occasional tank cleaning. The Betta splendens, or betta fish, boasts vibrant, flowing fins that give it an exotic appearance, yet it is widely available in pet stores and thrives on simple pellet food.

A common misconception about betta fish is that they must live in isolation. (They are also called Siamese fighting fish.) While housing two male bettas together is ill-advised, they can coexist with other aquatic species or be paired with female bettas.

8. Leopard Gecko

The American Pet Products Association (APPA) National Pet Owners Survey reveals that 6 million households in the U.S. include reptiles as pets.

The leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius) is an endearing and entertaining option for reptile enthusiasts. Their appeal lies in their adorable leopard-like spots and tiny pink tongues. These small pets grow to a modest 7 to 10 inches (17.8 to 25.4 cm) in length when fully mature.

Unlike other geckos, leopard geckos lack the ability to climb walls, making escapes rare. These easy-to-care-for pets are sociable enough for occasional interaction but are also content being left alone, provided they have a heat lamp, food, and water. (Their diet of choice? Mealworms and crickets.)

Avoid tugging on their tails, as they are among the lizard species capable of shedding them. If your gecko loses its tail, it will regrow, though it won’t match the original in appearance.

7. Bearded Dragon

The bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) ranks among the top lizard pets. With their striking appearance — available in various colors and adorned with small spikes around their "beard" and torso — they are not only visually appealing but also gentle enough for handling and highly inquisitive about their surroundings.

As omnivores, bearded dragons enjoy a diet that includes insects alongside a daily serving of fresh vegetables, such as collard greens and bell peppers.

6. Cat

Following dogs, cats (Felis catus) rank as the second most favored pet in the United States. The American Pet Products Association National Pet Owners Survey indicates that 46.5 million U.S. households include a feline companion.

Cats are loving creatures and ideal pets for those who don’t mind maintaining a litter box. They exhibit charming behaviors such as purring, kneading, and sitting in squares.

A key factor to consider when adopting a cat is whether to keep your cat indoors. The National Audubon Society advocates for indoor cats to safeguard bird populations, and indoor cats generally enjoy longer lifespans compared to outdoor cats.

Concerned about your indoor cat’s boredom? Consider training your cat to perform tricks. Cats are intelligent and can engage in puzzle games just as enthusiastically as dogs.

5. Dog

Dogs hold the title of the most beloved pets in the U.S. The American Pet Products Association National Pet Owners Survey reports that 65.1 million households own dogs. But are they the ultimate pet? Renowned for their intelligence, loyalty, and affection, dogs are far from low-maintenance companions.

Most dogs were bred to be loving companions (they follow us everywhere), so dedicating time to their care is essential for their happiness. Dogs may bark, growl, or even bite if they feel threatened. These multifaceted animals need consistent care and training to adapt seamlessly to human environments.

The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior emphasizes that "only reward-based training methods should be employed for all dog training, including addressing behavioral issues."

Reward-based training, also referred to as positive reinforcement training, is not only scientifically supported but also an enjoyable way for your new pet to build a strong bond with the family.

4. Rabbit

Rabbits were initially domesticated thousands of years ago as a food source, but they have since become beloved pets. All 50 breeds of domestic rabbits trace their lineage back to the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

The House Rabbit Society notes that indoor pet rabbits often live twice as long as those kept outdoors in cages. As social creatures, rabbits thrive when treated as family members. They are intelligent and can even be trained to use a litter box.

The biggest challenge of owning a soft, cuddly rabbit might be resisting the temptation to pick them up. While pet rabbits often greet their owners and enjoy sitting nearby, most prefer not to be cuddled.

3. Hamster

Hamsters are undeniably adorable, with their soft fur and chubby cheeks (which are actually food storage pouches). These tiny creatures are hard to resist.

While there are 18 hamster species, the Syrian golden hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) is the most popular pet choice. With over 120 varieties, these hamsters come in a wide array of fur colors and textures.

Unlike guinea pigs, rabbits, cats, and dogs, hamsters are not fully domesticated. This means your pet hamster closely resembles the wild golden hamsters found in the dry regions of northwestern Syria. In the wild, golden hamsters are solitary, so keeping one as a pet is perfectly suitable.

Providing a well-ventilated cage, a water bottle, food, and enrichment activities is all it takes to enjoy the low-maintenance companionship of a hamster.

2. Rat

Rats are a polarizing pet choice. While many focus on keeping rats out of their homes, these creatures are surprisingly intelligent and can be wonderful companions for those who enjoy training but prefer a smaller commitment than a dog.

Of the 56 rat species, only the domesticated brown rat (Rattus norvegicus), or fancy rat, is kept as a pet. Fancy rats are smaller, gentler, and come in diverse colors and coat textures compared to their wild counterparts.

Despite their short lifespan (typically 2 years), pet rats form strong bonds with their owners and each other. (They thrive in pairs due to their social nature.) Owners are often amazed by their cleverness and curiosity, though their nocturnal habits mean they may be active and noisy at night.

1. Budgie

The American Pet Products Association (APPA) National Pet Owners Survey reports that over 6 million U.S. households own birds. Among the most popular is the budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus), commonly called the budgie, shell parakeet, or sometimes mistakenly referred to as a lovebird.

Budgies are exceptional pets for several reasons. Their striking appearance, with hundreds of color variations, is captivating. Additionally, they are known for their friendly and sociable nature.

"Every budgie I’ve owned has been friendly, sociable, and delightful companions who love being petted," shared Michael Rose, a long-time budgie enthusiast, in an interview with Mytour.

Budgies are highly vocal and can learn to interact with humans through chirps, chatter, and whistles. As social creatures, they thrive in pairs. Ensure they have a spacious cage (minimum 12 x 18 x 18 inches, or 30.5 x 45.7 x 45.7 cm) to allow room for flying and exploring.