In the U.S., having a pet is very common. A cat or dog and/or both are part of the family and live inside the home. Set aside dogs and cats, are you curious to learn about the most common pets around the world?
Peru
- 90% of the world’s alpaca population is in Peru where they’ve been domesticated for years. Their fur is used to make products and sold in the mountains. Who doesn’t love a friendly, cute and cuddly animal?!
Brazil
- The highest population of birds in the world are found in Brazil and there are over 1,800 species! The most common pet birds are parrots, cockatoos and macaws.
Japan
- Large horned rhinoceros beetles called kabutomushi and kuwagatamushi are popular, low maintenance pets found in a lot of households. If you’re squeamish, we’ll spare you the image.
- Bunnies are common as Japan even has an island called Bunny Island!
- Japan is also known for owl, reptile, sloth and hedgehog cafes to name a few.
China
- Goldfish are the most popular pet found in China as the fish originated there in the Jin Dynasty from 265-420 BC.
- Crickets are viewed as lucky in China and are kept as pets. There are even competitions to see which cricket is the strongest!
Taiwan
- Tortoises can be traced back to ancient times when their shells were used to write messages on. Did you know the average pet turtle can live up to 25 years? It’s believed having a tortoise will lead to a long life.
Middle East
- Pigeons were originally bred in the Mughal Empire in the 16th century for racing, but are now pets! They’re known for their beauty in the Middle East unlike the pesky pigeons found in the streets here in the US.
Canada
- These next few are certainly not popular, but legal to own as a pet in Canada
- Capybara – ever heard of these huge hamster-like creatures? They are around 100 pounds, originally from South America, can be aggressive, and require lots of attention.
- Wallaby – similar to a kangaroo in the marsupial family, they enjoy jumping and need lots of space to roam.
- Fennec fox – friendly, energetic and similar to a dog. They are only 3 pounds, originally from the desert in Northern Africa and can be litter trained.
USA – In addition to dogs and cats, people here in the U.S. sometimes have these pets…
- Hedgehog
- Ferret
- Pig
- Hamster
- Lizard
Love animals? Check out some more fun facts here.
