Everyone thinks that their pet is the most special pet in the world- and while Ricky might do the funniest dance and Fluffy has the sweetest little mew that you have ever heard- having a pet actually makes you part of one of the largest clubs in America! 

According to Forbes, two-thirds of households in the United States have pets. So, which kind of pet is most popular? Read on to find out! 

Free range chickens peck in the grass looking for food on a sunny day

What Is the Most Popular Pet in America?

In a country with 86.9 million homes that have pets, there are some pretty unique choices out there. Of course, the majority of people have pets of the four-legged, furry variety, but there are also some popular pets out there that might surprise you. Let’s take a look at the most popular kind of pets to have in the United States. 

#7 Chickens and Other Poultry

We’re already surprising you, aren’t we? That is, unless you are one of the many households who have chickens, ducks, or other poultry running around your yard! 

Because poultry are often considered farm animals, it is hard to come up with an exact number that are kept as pets. However, statistics do show that many more households are opting for poultry as pets, possibly because of their dual purpose as egg producers and companions. 

#6 Rabbits

Somewhere between three and seven million people are the proud owners of pet rabbits. It is no doubt due to their cute fluffiness that so many people are attracted to the idea of having them as pets. 

It is important to keep in mind that rabbits can be difficult to care for. Like most pets, they have special needs in terms of housing and food that must be met to keep them healthy and active.

#5 Reptiles

When we start talking about reptiles as pets, people often think of snakes. While snakes are a popular choice, the most popular choice is the Bearded Dragon. The exotic beauty of reptiles likely adds to their popularity.

In addition to the Bearded Dragon, Leopard Geckos and Ball Pythons are popular as pets among reptile lovers. 

#4 Birds

The most popular type of pet bird is a Parakeet, and they are kept as companions by people all over the world. In the United States, more than 20 million people have pet birds. Some breeds are known for their ease of care, while others can be quite difficult to maintain.

The most popular kinds of birds to have as pets are Cockatiels, Parakeets, Parrots, Cockatoos, and Macaws.

# 3 Freshwater Fish

Having an aquarium is fun and exciting and the best part is that it is often a great choice as an additional type of pet to add to your home. Eight million people have freshwater fish tanks in the United States, while nearly seven million more have outdoor ponds, and an additional 700,000 keep saltwater tanks.

The most common fish that we find in aquariums are Guppies, Goldfish, Suckermouth Catfish, Zebrafish, and Oscars.

#2 Cats

While cats may be number two in popularity, no cat comes in second in their pet parent’s heart. Cat lovers develop close bonds with their feline family members and usually have a kindred spirit when they run into one of the other 58,385,725 “cat people” out there.

Most domesticated cats in the US fall under the umbrella of American shorthair in terms of breed. However, three to five percent of cats come from breeders and are considered purebred. According to Forbes, the most popular cat breed in America is the Ragdoll. 

#1 Dogs

We can finally settle that long-standing debate between cats and dogs. Dogs are man’s best friend and the most popular type of pet to have in the United States. There are 76,811,305 pet dogs in American homes.

Dogs come in all kinds of shapes and sizes and have a wide variety of personality types. Dogs make great pets when you find the right fit for your home. The most common dog breeds in the United States are the Boston Terrier, German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Poodle.

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