Discover the top 8 most popular pets in the U.S. in 2023 and how to pick the perfect companion based on your lifestyle. Includes expert care tips, fun facts, and trusted external sources.
Owning a pet is more than a trend—it’s a lifestyle. In 2023, pet ownership in the U.S. reached record highs, with Americans spending over $136 billion on their furry (and not-so-furry) companions, according to the American Pet Products Association (APPA). But which pets top the charts, and how do you decide which is right for you?
Let’s dive into the eight most beloved pets in 2023, and finish with a guide to choosing the best one for your needs.
1. Dogs
Dogs remain America’s top pet. Their loyalty, intelligence, and diverse breeds make them perfect for nearly every lifestyle. From energetic Golden Retrievers to tiny Chihuahuas, there’s a dog for everyone.
Pros:
- Highly social and affectionate
- Great for families and active individuals
- Trainable and protective
Care Tips:
- Daily walks and mental stimulation
- Annual vet checkups and vaccinations
- Grooming varies by breed
Further Reading: Dog – Wikipedia
2. Cats
Independent yet loving, cats take the second spot. They’re ideal for people who want companionship without the commitment of daily walks.
Pros:
- Low-maintenance
- Excellent indoor pets
- Self-cleaning and quiet
Care Tips:
- Litter box maintenance
- Playtime and enrichment
- Regular health checks
Fun Fact: Studies show cat owners are less likely to suffer from depression (Forbes).
3. Freshwater Fish
Fish offer tranquility and beauty, making them popular for homes and offices. Freshwater fish are easier to maintain than saltwater species.
Popular Species:
- Betta fish
- Goldfish
- Guppies
Care Tips:
- Maintain water quality and pH levels
- Avoid overcrowding
- Feed species-specific food
Further Reading: Aquarium Fish
4. Small Animals
Hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, and ferrets are rising stars among pet owners, especially in urban settings.
Pros:
- Great for apartments
- Interactive and sociable (especially guinea pigs and rabbits)
- Cost-effective compared to dogs/cats
Care Tips:
- Daily cage cleaning
- Supervised playtime outside the cage
- Social bonding (especially for guinea pigs)
Further Reading: Check out this article on the most neglected pets in the UK to learn about common mistakes to avoid.
5. Birds
From chatty parrots to melodic canaries, birds can be highly rewarding companions.
Popular Choices:
- Parakeets
- Cockatiels
- Lovebirds
Pros:
- Colorful personalities
- Some species mimic human speech
- Long lifespans
Care Tips:
- Large cages with toys
- Interaction and stimulation
- Clean water and diverse diet
External Resource: Pet Birds
6. Reptiles
Reptiles such as turtles, snakes, and lizards are low-allergen, fascinating pets that appeal to niche owners.
Pros:
- Quiet and odor-free
- Unique feeding habits and behaviors
- Ideal for allergy sufferers
Care Tips:
- Habitat temperature control (heating lamps, humidity)
- Specific dietary needs
- Know the lifespan and adult size
Expert Insight: Many reptiles require very specific environmental conditions to thrive. Always consult a care guide.
7. Horses
While not your everyday pet, horses are deeply loved by rural and equestrian communities.
Pros:
- Strong human-animal bond
- Great for therapy and recreation
- Majestic and powerful
Care Tips:
- Requires stable and pasture
- High maintenance and costly
- Professional veterinary and farrier care
Fun Fact: Owning a horse can be as demanding as a full-time job but equally rewarding.
Learn More: Horse – Wikipedia
8. Saltwater Fish
Though more delicate than their freshwater cousins, saltwater fish offer unmatched beauty and biodiversity.
Popular Species:
- Clownfish
- Tangs
- Gobies
Care Tips:
- Advanced aquarium setup (filtration, salinity, lighting)
- Stable water chemistry
- Avoid mixing incompatible species
Note: Ideal for experienced fish keepers.
Finding the Right Pet for You
Now that you know the most popular pets, how do you choose the right one? Consider the following:
- Time Commitment: Dogs require walks; fish and reptiles are less interactive.
- Living Space: Apartments are better suited to cats, fish, or small animals.
- Budget: Horses and exotic reptiles are expensive. Fish and small mammals are more budget-friendly.
- Lifestyle Compatibility: Active people may enjoy dogs, while introverts may prefer cats or reptiles.
- Health Considerations: Allergy sufferers may want hypoallergenic pets like fish or reptiles.
Pro Tip: Take a lifestyle-based pet quiz or consult with local adoption centers before deciding.
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