Understanding the Differences Between Household Pets and Domestic Animals

The term "pet" often brings to mind lively dogs and cats. These animals have become beloved companions for many families. According to the 2021-2022 National Pet Owners Survey, approximately 70% of households possess at least one pet. But are dogs and cats the only animals considered pets? How do pets differ from other domesticated animals? These questions are common for those interested in learning about pet classifications.

What distinguishes domesticated animals from pets?
Domesticated animals are bred specifically to live alongside humans in captivity for economic reasons, such as meat, milk, wool, leather, or farm work.

Examples of domesticated animals include cows, camels, chickens, goats, horses, and donkeys.

While these animals are domesticated, they are distinct from pets. Pets are animals kept mainly for companionship, establishing emotional bonds with their owners and family members, and living within the household environment.

Which animals are recognized as pets?
Almost any animal can be kept as a pet, but certain species like dogs, cats, fish, birds, reptiles, and small mammals are most common. Popular pets include but are not limited to: dogs, cats, fish, parrots, turtles, snakes, frogs, cockatoos, parakeets, hamsters, rabbits, mice, rats, guinea pigs, and ferrets.

Top household pets

Across nations, people have strong affection for various animals. Among the most favored are:

Dogs

Dogs are the most widely loved pets worldwide. According to recent surveys, around 69 million families own a dog. Their popularity stems from loyalty, protectiveness, ease of training, affordability, and their friendly nature with both kids and adults. Breeds like Labrador Retriever, French Bulldog, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Poodle, Bulldog, Beagle, and Rottweiler are particularly popular.

Cats

Cats were introduced to North America centuries ago to help control pests. Today, over 45 million families have adopted cats. Though less overtly loyal than dogs, cats charm owners with curiosity, independence, playfulness, and affectionate traits. Popular breeds include Ragdoll, Persian, Maine Coon, Siamese, American Shorthair, Scottish Fold, and Devon Rex.

Fish

Nearly 12% of households keep aquariums with fish, making them the third most popular pet. Fish add aesthetic appeal and are low-maintenance. Freshwater varieties like Goldfish, Cory Catfish, Mollies, and Swordtails are preferred for their affordability compared to saltwater species such as Clownfish or Green Chromis.

Birds

Birds enchant households with their beauty and songs, being the fourth most common pet. Species like parrots, cockatiels, budgerigars, doves, conures, cockatoos, hyacinth macaws, finches, and parakeets are especially appreciated, with some capable of mimicking human speech.

Reptiles

Though reptiles may be intimidating to some, many enthusiasts keep them as pets. Over 5.5 million households own reptiles such as Leopard Geckos, Corn Snakes, Bearded Dragons, African Sulcata Tortoises, Ball Pythons, Red-eared Sliders, Chameleons, and Blue-tongued Skinks. Reptiles are valued for their quietness, minimal care requirements, and long lifespan.

Hamsters

With over 1.5 million households owning hamsters, these small rodents are adorable, cuddly, and easy to care for. They don't need extensive training, are budget-friendly, occupy little space, and are low-maintenance, making them ideal for many homes.