Top 5 Most Popular Pets

January 30, 2017

From dogs to cats, hamsters and guinea pigs, fish and herptiles, we love our pets. In Canada alone, there are 78 million households with pets - that’s more than half of the population.

1.  Cats

We differ from America, however, who love their dogs over cats. That doesn’t mean dogs are left out in the cold. Not so fast! On home soil, cats outnumber dogs by 2 million because they’re easier to care for, require little exercise and are good with children of all ages. According to a 2014 consumer report, the number of cats living in Canada was 7.9 million. Most homes love their cats so much, they’ll double up on their feline friends to make the average number per household 2.2!

2. Dogs

When it comes to dogs in Canada, there are 5.9 million living in our homes. Dogs tends to attract an older crowd of pet lovers or families with older, teenage children. Which means more people to share the work and take Fido for his daily walks. Dogs are wonderful creatures for their loyalty and constant companionship. With so many breeds to choose from, there’s a dog for every personality.

3.  Fish

Fish top the scale in the third spot for most popular pet in Canada. Freshwater fish like goldfish are also relatively easy to care for, once you learn what they need to stay healthy. One of the most common mistakes with goldfish is housing them in a bowl rather than a tank. Fish bowls don’t offer enough ventilation for a goldfish and are way too small for them to survive. For one goldfish, you’ll need a 10-15 gallon tank.

4. Birds

Birds make wonderful companions and if given enough love and attention when young, can be trained to sit on your shoulder and even do tricks. Even a budgie will speak for you if you take the time to teach him. Not only are birds colourful, lyrical and fanciful, but they love attention and ask little in return.

5. Rabbits

Hopping into fifth place is that adorable, flopsy-eared fluffball the bunny rabbit. Kids love rabbits because they’re friendly, playful and cuddly. They will sit contentedly on your lap for hours and love to be brushed and groomed. As long as they can romp and play for a couple of hours a day, rabbits will remain happy for a long time.

What's your favourite pet and why? Tell us in the comments below.

Photo Credit: Andy McLemore: Chillin’ Villains