10. Ferrets

Ferrets have qualities of both cats and dogs (although there are big differences too) which is why they are becoming popular. They are small yet playful and remain so during all their lives. Unlike dogs, they do not need to be taken for a walk at 2 a.m. and yet they are extremely social and litter trainable. Ferrets sleep around 15-20 hours a day and depending on their neutered state, they go by different names.

9. Iguanas

Besides the merit of being lazy around them and not taking them for walks, these pets are long lasting and make a person responsible. They can live for up to 20 years with proper care, food and shelter showing that these are tough animals. Most Iguanas live happily in their terrariums but since they grow, there needs to be enough space for them to move around.

8. Snakes

If given proper care, snakes can have a lifespan of over 40 years. Because of the increasing demand for pet snakes, an attractive snake breeding industry has come to life in the U.S. particularly concerning the docile species like ball python and corn snakes. A snake does not have to be fed frequently and requires food every five to fourteen days. Snakes that are born in captivity and bred so, are considered to be better pets as they are more tamed than those caught from the wild.

7. Parrots & Other Birds

The most commonly kept birds in the home as pets are the canary and the parrot. Certain species like cockatiels, doves, budgerigars, finches and lovebirds, can thrive as pets with proper care but other species like the macaw are better left in the wild. Birds can make wonderful companions and the larger ones can live for up to dozens of years.

6. Guinea Pigs

Their caging requirements are quite easy to handle since they can’t jump or climb. They are relatively sturdy pets with fewer health problems. Newborn Guinea Pigs are fully developed with their eyes and mouth open so they are fun to play with and easy to breed. Not only is pork popular food among Americans, but it is also a popular farm animal in the countryside.

5. Mice

Mice are the most widely distributed mammals after human beings. The mice that live in homes are nocturnal. They feed on insects, small plants and seeds. The female mouse can give birth to 4-7 younglings every thirty days but because of the high number of predators, these younglings don’t survive for much longer.

4. Fish

There are some 25,000 species of fish that have been discovered so far and fishing is the second most popular hobby of people in America. Keeping a fish has always been a favorite of people looking for pets because it brings both company and relaxation. There is a good amount of serenity exuded by the still water in which the fish calmly swims. It brings relaxation and soothes the mind. Watching slow moving fish swimming in the aquarium is relaxing for people with hyperactive minds.

3. Hamsters

Hamsters are popular when it comes to scientific experiments because they can reproduce at a fast rate and are disease free. Farmers consider them a nuisance and different ways are sought to kill them, one of the most popular but cruel ones is drowning them. However, their immunity to most harmful viruses and substances make them ideal pets for children and not only.

2. Cats

Although the number of cats in America is greater than the dogs, we would still put dogs on our list of most favorite pets on the top because many families would like to keep dogs but problems like lesser space restrict the choice. Cats are very playful too but not as loyal as dogs and generally end to be a bit selfish. Siamese is ranked as the most popular breed of cats in America.

1. Dogs

Dogs are the most popular pet in the United States. There are many reasons for that. Dogs are immensely loyal and protective. Research has proven that the loyalty of a dog to his master is second to none. They are generally affectionate with kids and their owners. Some dogs are better with kids and can be trained better than others. Dogs will know when the master is low and will playfully try to distract them from the surly mood. According to The American Kennel Club, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog breed in America today.