Small Animals

Small animals as pets

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Small Animals
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There are pets for every lifestyle. For some people, an athletic dog to go jogging with every morning is ideal; others may want a cat who lazes on their lap, a colorful bird whose antics keep them company, or a turtle or school of fish that provide relaxing observation. Small animals – small mammals for the purpose of our pet guide –  typically fall somewhere between “lap cat” and “school of fish,” in that they can be handled with care and are also delightful to observe in their own environment as they play – tunneling, batting balls, spinning their running wheels, and more! While caring for any animal is a serious responsibility, requiring daily attention and care, a gerbil is definitely a lower maintenance pet than a Belgian Malinois, which provides opportunities for different lifestyles or for teaching less experienced pet owners. Many adults credit being responsible for hamsters, guinea pigs, or other small animals as children as an experience that led to a lifelong love of pet ownership – but of course, grownups can enjoy them, too!




Abyssinian
The Abyssinian is one of the world’s oldest cat breeds, though its exact origin is a source of continuing debate. Making…
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Affenpinscher
Confident, Famously Funny, Fearless The Affenpinscher ("monkey-like terrier”) hails from Central Europe, serving for centuries as loyal companion and fearless…
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Afghan Hound
Active, Regular Grooming The Afghan Hound originated in Afghanistan, and is known for its silky coat, powerful stride, and regal aloofness. Each personality…
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African Dwarf Frog
African dwarf frogs are peaceful, relatively low-maintenance, and active aquarium dwellers. Because of these traits (as well…
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African Grey Parrot
The African Grey Parrot is a highly intelligent, sensitive bird that can live up to 60 years as a pet – a very long-term…
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African Senegal
African Senegals may not be the flashiest bird around, but they are loving by nature -- and will want you to return that…
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Airedale Terrier
Active, Intelligent Known as the “King of Terriers,” the Airedale Terrier is the largest Terrier (males are up to 23” inches), and also…
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Akita
Courageous, Dignified, Profoundly Loyal A versatile hunting and guarding dog, the Akita (“Silent Hunter” in Japan), is known for being a quiet, loyal, and intelligent…
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Alaskan Husky
Dogs became breeds because their behavior, size, shape, speed, and other traits made them ideal for a particular kind of…
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Alaskan Malamute
Affectionate, Loyal, Playful The Alaskan Malamute, named after the Malamute Inuit tribe Malamutes, were bred to be powerful sled dogs. They are related…
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Amazons
Amazons are medium to large birds with huge personalities. They love to play, are likely to pick up many words, and can be…
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American English Coonhound
Sweet, Mellow, Sociable The American English Coonhound (AEC) comes from Virginia Hounds, who were bred to handle rough terrain. An agile, speedy…
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American Eskimo Dog
Playful, Perky, Smart The American Eskimo Dog is a descendent of the European Spitzes and its name has nothing to do with Eskimo culture. An agile…
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American Foxhound
Bred by George Washington himself (from French Hounds and French Foxhounds), you can’t get any more “American” than…
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American Hairless Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier is a variation of the Rat Terrier, who, as his name suggest, is hairless. He is intelligent…
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American Leopard Hound
A sturdy and agile all-purpose tree dog who excel with larger game, the American Leopard Hound is a medium to large-sized…
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American Shorthair
This breed embodies the “All-American” working cat type – sturdy of structure with an amiable, playful personality…
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American Water Spaniel
Excelling as both a water retrieving and family dog, the American Water Spaniel is a medium-sized dog (up to 18” and 45lbs),…
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Anatolian Shepherd Dog
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is an ancient breed (over 6,000 years!) who was bred to blend in with the livestock he is charged…
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Angelfish
With its flowing fins and beautiful patterns, it is no surpise that angelfish are incredibly popular in aquariums.
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Angelfish (freshwater)
Freshwater angelfish are easily recognized by their flowing fins and have a wide variety of color patterns.
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Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog (ACD) is one of the smartest and hardest working canines in all of dogdom. Bred for herding cattle,…
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Australian Shepherd
Hard working, intelligent dogs with strong family ties, the Australian Shepherd loves to get his job done. Australian Shepherds…
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Australian Terrier
Australian Terriers are affectionate toward their people, but alert watchdogs and a nightmare for vermin. Small (up to 11”…
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Azawakh
A sighthound blessed with height (up to 29”), grace, and endurance, the Azawakh made his appearance in the United States…
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Ball Python
From western and central Africa, ball pythons (Python regius) usually grow to 3’-5’ and have a life span of 15+ years.…
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Barbet
The Barbet is a water dog with roots that can be traced to 14th century France. They are hunters, love being close to their…
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Basenji
An ancient breed, the Basenji was a gift to the Pharaohs in ancient Egypt. He is a powerful hound in a small package (up…
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Basset Hound
The Basset Hound has a secure spot in the history books: a gift to George Washington, a pet to European nobility, and a top…
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Beagle
Beagles are small hounds (less than 15”) who were recognized by the AKC in 1885, and have been working side-by-side with…
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Bearded Collie
Herding group, long hair, family friendly The Bearded Collie is thought to have his origins with the Komondor, a dog that settled in Hungary in the 12th century. As…
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Bearded Dragon
A lizard from Australia, bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) live 6-15 years and grow to 12-24” long, subsisting on a varied…
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Beauceron
Herding Group, short hair, guard dog, active Hailing from Northern France, the Beauceron is a short-haired sheep and cattle herding dog. They are intelligent and versatile…
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Bedlington Terrier
Terrier, Family Dog, Grooming Needs The Bedlington Terrier may look like a little lamb (only 16’5” tall and 23lbs) but he is also an athletic and enthusiastic…
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Belgian Laekenois
A guardian of livestock (and linen!) and a messenger during both World Wars, the Belgian Laekenois always serves with distinction.…
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Belgian Malinois
Herding, Guardian, active It is not uncommon for an American to mistake the Belgian Malinois for a “light-boned German Shepherd,” but they are…
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Belgian Sheepdog
The Belgian Sheepdog is an average sized (26” tall) dog, and an extremely versatile worker, excelling as herding dogs,…
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Belgian Tervuren
American Belgian Tervuren Club An average-sized (26” tall) dog with a distinctive thick coat, the Belgian Tervuren is an all-purpose herding and guard…
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Bergamasco
Italian via Ira, the Bergamasco is an average sized (up to 23.5” tall), athletic sheepdog. They are highly social and intelligent,…
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Berger Picard
As with many breeds, the Berger Picard almost went extinct after WWII. They are an athletic, average sized (up to 23.5”…
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Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog, named for the Canton of Bern, began as a working companion for farmers, and is now growing in popularity…
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Bichon Frise
Lapdog, Hypoallergenic A descendent of the Water Spaniel, the Bichon Frise is a small (up to 11.5” tall) but sturdy dog known for his happy and…
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Biewer Terrier
The Biewer Terrier (pronounced like "beaver") is a new breed, related to the Yorkshire Terrier, that is growing in popularity.…
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Birman
Many countries and cultures have made contributions to the Birman breed, as well as the myths and legends surrounding this…
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Black and Tan Coonhound
Hound, Family Dog The Black and Tan Coonhound is an older American breed of dog, descended from a crossing of Bloodhound and Black and Tan…
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Black Russian Terrier
Guardian, Working Dog, Intelligent With his course, black double coat, powerful stride, and watchful eye, the Black Russian Terrier is a distinctively Russian…
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Bloodhound
Hound, Working Dog The Bloodhound is an iconic scent hound: big and tall (up to 27” and 150lbs) with loose folds of skin, he is one of the…
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Blue Tongue Skink
Blue tongue skinks are a special category of beginner lizard that seem to fulfill the wish list of all the attributes that…
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Bluetick Coonhound
Hound, Working Dog, Wash-and-Wear The Bluetick Coonhound is a strong, wiry athlete (27” tall, up to 80 lbs), skilled at hunting and treeing raccoons and…
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Border Collie
Developed in the border country between Scotland and England, Border Collies were invaluable assistants to the shepherds…
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Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is a lively and determined hunter that will happily maneuver the trickiest of thickets and widest of meadows…
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Borzoi
The Borzoi is a large, longhaired sighthound that was known as the Russian Wolfhound in America until 1936. They were developed…
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Boston Terriers
The “All American” Boston Terrier is widely known for its merry, captivating personality and intelligence and is one…
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Bouvier des Flandres
The Bouvier des Flandres comes from Belgium and is the product of centuries of breeding for purpose but not necessarily form…
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Boxer
With their dashing good looks and intrepid, cheerful attitude, Boxers have become one of America’s favorite breeds, placing…
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Boykin Spaniel
The Boykin Spaniel is a native of North America and the State Dog of South Carolina, where the breed originated. They are…
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Briard
Valued for its skills as both guardian and stock dog, the Briard has been a beloved native breed of France since the Middle…
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British Shorthair
British Shorthairs are known for their mellow demeanors and teddy bear looks. Their most common coloration is the “British…
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Brittany
The Brittany is a medium-sized, versatile hunting breed with a cheerful attitude that originated in the French Province of…
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Brussels Griffon
The spirited little Brussels Griffons, sporting their distinctive beards and expressive, almost human eyes, make an engaging…
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Budgerigar
Budgerigars are parakeets, referred to informally as “budgies.” They are small, have appealing colors and markings, are…
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Bull Terrier
The clownishly captivating Bull Terrier has become somewhat of a media icon because of their widespread appearance as brand…
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Bulldog
Today’s Bulldogs, widely adored l for their endearing wrinkles and thoughtful, gentle natures are one of America’s most…
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Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a powerful breed of impressive intelligence and trainability that was developed in England around 1860…
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Burmese
The Burmese is a breed of cat that originated in Southeast Asia but was developed in the United States. The founding female…
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Caique
Caiques are outgoing, small to medium-sized parrots (about 9”), and considered the “clowns” of the bird world.
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Canaan Dog
The Canaan Dog is the national breed of Israel and dates back to Biblical times. They were the guardians and herding dogs…
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Canary
While eclipsed in popularity by the parrot, canaries have been kept as companions for hundreds of years and been bred into…
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Cane Corso
Known for their majestic looks and courageous spirit, this ancient Italian breed was little known outside its native country…
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Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is the older of the two Corgi breeds and while similar in many respects, the Cardigan has a tail,…
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has been a sweet natured warmer of laps and hearts for centuries. Named for King Charles…
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Cesky Terriers
The Cesky Terrier is a native of Czechoslovakia and was developed by Mr. Frantisik Horak through crossings of Scottish Terriers…
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Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The powerful, driven Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a truly American breed, developed along the Chesapeake Bay, and honored…
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Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are tiny friends with huge hearts and delightful, often feisty personalities. They are quick on their feet and…
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Chinese Crested
This dainty, affectionate Chinese Crested is an old breed believed to have once been kept aboard Chinese sailing vessels…
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Chinese Shar-Pei
The Chinese Shar-Pei, like the Chow, is an ancient, multi-purpose breed that has served as vermin-catcher, hunter, tracker,…
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Chinook
One of America’s few native breeds, the Chinook, which means “warm winter winds” in Inuit, was once listed in the Guinness…
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Chow
The unique and noble Chow, a native of northern China, is thought to be the original ancestor of other Arctic breeds that…
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Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel has a deliberate and slow-paced hunting style that contrasts with the animated, high speed approach of…
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Cockatiel
Cockatiels social and cuddly, visually striking, and known for an appealing (but not overly loud or screeching) whistle –…
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Cockatoo
Cockatoos are sometimes referred to as “velcro birds,” because they are so social and love being around – and on –…
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Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is the smallest of the spaniels and Sporting Group but still a capable, driven gun dog able to cover a…
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Collie
The Collie exists in the minds of many as the epitome of canine character and devotion, largely thanks to the Hollywood phenomenon…
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Comet Goldfish
The comet goldfish is a hardy and extremely popular aquarium and pond fish, distinguishable from the common goldfish by its…
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Common Pleco
The common pleco (Hypostomus plecostomus or suckermouth catfish) is an aquarium favorite, beloved for eating algae off of…
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Conure
Conures are bold and social parrots who want to be where the people (the action!) is in your home. They are curious and fun-loving,…
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Corn Snake
Found in the southeastern United States, corn snakes (Elaphe guttata) usually grow 3’-5’ in length and have a life span…
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Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras Catfish (Corys, Cory Cats) are hardy, peaceful bottom dwellers. They are small -- no more than 5 inches, usually…
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Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a bold, adventurous spirit in a compact, pretty package. They are loved for both their beauty and…
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Crested Gecko
From the New Caledonian islands near Australia, these crested geckos (Correphalus ciliatus, formerly Rhacodactylus cilitaus)…
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Curly Coated Retriever
The Curly Coated Retrieving is eye-catching, with its dark coat of tight, water-resistant curls, but it is also a robust,…
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Dachshund
The affable “weiner-dog” was developed in the 1600’s in Germany to be a fierce hunter with the appropriate physical…
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Dalmatian
Dignified, Smart, Outgoing Notable not just for their spots, the Dalmation is a breed in possession of impressive intelligence, endurance, and speed.…
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Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier originated as a hunter, designed to “go to the ground” for otters, badgers, and other small…
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Devon Rex
With their big ears, impish faces, and curly coats, the Devon Rex charms those who appreciate something a little different…
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Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is an iconic guardian and an embodiment of strength, elegance, courage, and speed. They exude an air…
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Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is large and athletic, yet elegant and balanced, and has an instantly recognizeable head and short, white…
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Dogue de Bordeaux
This French breed offers a generous helping of looks and character, from their massive head and body and their abundant,…
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Dove
Most doves are not pets or are only suitable for the experienced aviculturist, but the diamond dove and ring-necked dove…
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Eclectus Parrot
There are several species of Eclectus Parrot, the most common being the Solomon Island Eclectus.
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English Cocker Spaniel
The English Cocker Spaniel possesses an almost superfluous amount of verve and vitality, practically vibrating with enthusiasm,…
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English Foxhound
The English Foxhound is a sturdy and versatile hound that can be trained to hunt nearly any game they can give chase to.…
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English Setter
The English Setter is known for its flashy elegance and beautiful dappled coat. Energetic and intelligent, they are popular…
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English Springer Spaniel
Possessing the exuberance and work ethic typical of spaniels, the English Springer Spaniel remains a popular companion for…
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English Toy Spaniel
It is generally agreed that this charming and lovable character has his roots in the Far East and eventually made its way…
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Entlebucher Mountain Dog
This native of Switzerland is the smallest of the four tri-color Swiss Mountain Dogs. His larger cousins are the Appenzeller…
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Fancy Guppy
One of the most popular aquarium fish, fancy guppies are guppies that have been selectively bred to show vivid colors and…
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Ferret
As pets, Ferrets are relative newcomers, though they have been growing in popularity since the 1980s. Their sleek looks and…
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Field Spaniel
The Field Spaniel is a versatile and hard-working hunter of field and stream and also one of the rarest spaniel breeds. They…
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Finch
Many species of finch are kept as pets. They are generally undemanding and pleasant birds who do well housed in a large enclosure…
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Finnish Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund was developed north of the Arctic Circle by the semi-nomadic Sami people of Lapland. The breed’s profuse…
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Finnish Spitz
This northern breed, with its foxy features and astuteness, is also known for its agility, aptitude for hard work, and skills…
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Flat-Coated Retriever
This streamlined retriever has panache to spare, be it flushing and retrieving waterfowl, adventuring with his people, or…
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French Bulldog
The lively and lovable French Bulldog has been a delightful companion since the 1800s, when they were developed by English…
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Gerbil
The earliest and most common gerbil kept as a pet is the Mongolian gerbil. Given their friendly, inquisitive nature and cleanliness,…
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German Pinscher
The German Pinscher is a medium-sized, lithe, and vivacious breed that originated in Germany as an efficient eradicator of…
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German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd Dog is scores high marks in both form and function. They are an intelligent, powerful, and agile breed…
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German Shorthaired Pointer
This handsome hunter owes its popularity to its versatility, power, and enthusiasm in the field and beyond. They are an all-purpose…
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German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer was developed by German hunters motivated to create a durable, energetic pointer that was as…
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Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer, the largest of the Schnauzer breeds, is not technically a giant breed, but they are large and powerful…
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Glen of Imaal Terrier
This salt of the earth terrier is one of four terrier breeds native to Ireland and the least common of the four. They exemplify…
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GloFish
A GloFish is one of a few species of genetically modified fish that are fluorescent -- zebra danios, tetras, and now the…
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Golden Retriever
Their beautiful golden coats, intelligence, and enthusiasm for pleasing their masters has resulted in the immense popularity…
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Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter is a Scottish breed whose lineage goes back to the 17th century. The breed attained notable popularity…
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Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
Don't let the charming, sweet face of a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen fool you. These long-backed, short-legged dogs are…
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Great Dane
Stately in manner and impressive in size the so called “king of dogs” is a gentle giant known for its friendly, energetic…
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Great Pyrenees
This breed takes its name from the mountain range in southwestern Europe where it was developed to be an indispensable helper…
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Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, or GSMD, originated in the remote, mountainous regions of Switzerland and were developed…
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Greek Tortoise
Greek tortoises enjoy leafy greens and perhaps chopped timothy hay to keep their beaks trimmed, with small amounts of chopped…
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Green Iguana
Green iguanas are some of the larger examples of the pet reptile world, found from Mexico and Central America down through…
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Greyhound
A standard bearer of canine speed and athleticism, the Greyhound is one of the oldest breeds and has a history bathed in…
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Guinea Pig
Despite being prey animals and naturally cautious, a guinea pig that is socialized and handled by people early in life can…
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Hamster
Hamsters kept as pets are usually golden or Syrian hamsters. They are small, docile pets, but also inquisitive and playful.
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Harrier
This compact cousin of the English Foxhound was developed to hunt hare in packs and at a slower pace that was appropriate…
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Havanese
The sweet but sturdy little Havanese is descended from dogs brought to Cuba from Spain and has evolved from a lap-warmer…
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Ibizan Hound
The Ibizan Hound is thought to have been brought the Spanish island of Ibiza by ancient sea-traders, possibly Phoenicians.…
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Icelandic Sheepdog
This confident and capable companion and working dog is Iceland’s only native breed and was introduced by the Vikings in…
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Irish Red and White Setter
The Irish Red and White Setter is an athletic, intuitive, and courageous hunter that predates its close relative, the Irish…
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Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is one hunting’s most recognizable canine mascots. Their flashy red coat and gallant, sporting style distinguishes…
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Irish Terrier
The Irish Terrier charms with its lithe and lively qualities and its terrier zest for life and its many awaiting amusements.…
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Irish Water Spaniel
This largest of spaniels is regarded as unique not only for its size but also for its liver-colored curly coat and distinctive…
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Irish Wolfhound
This venerable sighthound of great size, strength, and endurance is the tallest of dogs but not the heaviest. Irish Wolfhounds…
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Italian Greyhound
Tiny in size but possessing the grace and genteel of its taller sighthound relatives, the Italian Greyhound is an affectionate…
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Japanese Chin
A charming companion through and through, the Japanese Chin was once solely a luxurious lap warmer of the Japanese nobility,…
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Jardine’s Parrot
Jardine’s Parrots are playful tricksters, excellent mimics who enjoy interacting with their owners. They have a zest for…
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Keeshond
The Keeshond shares its lineage with several other breed of arctic ancestry: the Samoyed, Chow Chow, Norwegian Elkhound,…
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Kerry Blue Terrier
The handsome and multi-talented Kerry Blue Terrier is a native of County Kerry, Ireland and has worn many hats throughout…
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Komondor
A fully corded Komondor is an incredible sight! Their distinctive corded coat serves to protect them from attack, help them…
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Kuvasz
Best known for their exceptional livestock guarding abilities, the courageous and noble Kuvasz originally comes from Tibet…
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Labrador Retriever
The popular and personable Labrador Retriever was developed in Newfoundland to be an assistant to fisherman, helping them…
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Lagotto Romagnolo
Originally bred as waterfowl retrievers, Lagotto Romagnolo today are best known as the world’s best truffle sniffing dog.…
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Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland Terrier is one of the oldest terrier breeds still around today and originated in England. Like many terriers,…
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Leonberger
The Leonberger was developed during the 1880s in Leonberg, Germany as family companion, farm worker, and draft dog. In addition…
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Leopard Gecko
A small fat-tailed lizard native to Pakistan, Afghanistan and India, the Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius) grows to…
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Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso originated many centuries ago in isolated regions of the Himalayas as a companion and sentinel in Buddhist…
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Lorikeets
Rainbow Lorikeets are medium-sized (15” long), visually striking parrots that truly live up to their colorful name! They…
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Lovebird
As pets, Lovebirds are often marketed as having the "personality of a parrot, but in a smaller, easier to care for package."
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Lowchen
The bright and lively Lowchen was developed in Pre-Renaissance Europe around 400 years ago as a companion for the aristocratic…
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Macaw
Macaws are intelligent, playful, and expressive (i.e. they can make a lot of noise!) birds, who are ill-suited to apartment…
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Maine Coon
As implied in the name, this breed is endemic to North America and is the state cat of Maine, where it was first recognized…
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Maltese
Once known as “Ye ancient dogge of Malta”, the gentle and elegant little Maltese has been gracing the laps of aristocrats…
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Manchester Terrier
The sleek and alert Manchester Terrier originated in England is a descendant of the oldest known terrier breed, the Black…
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Mastiff
The Mastiff is a dog of immense proportions as well as personality. These stately giants have been protecting their masters…
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Milk Snake
Milk Snakes (Lampropeltis triangulum) are found from Canada and the eastern U.S. all the way south to Venezuela. They are…
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Miniature American Shepherd
The Miniature American Shepherd strongly resembles the Australian Shepherd, but... smaller. This pint-sized herder is noted…
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Miniature Bull Terrier
The rambunctious and comical Miniature Bull Terrier packs all the standard-size Bull Terrier shenanigans (of the best variety!)…
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Miniature Pinscher
Packing a ton of personality and punch into a small package, the Miniature Pinscher is a zesty addition to any household.…
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Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer mini schnauzer is the smallest of the Schnauzers, and apart from size, shares many admirable traits…
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Molly
Mollies are small, nonaggressive, community fish with a reputation of being easy to care for.
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Mouse (Fancy)
While our relationship with mice has not always been a friendly one, they are undeniably cute, and have long been kept as…
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Mynah
Mynah birds have been kept as pets since ancient times and are arguably the best talkers of all bird-kind!
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Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff impresses with it massive size, stern appearance, and superfluous wrinkles. They are an ancient breed,…
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Nederlandse Kooikerhondje
Originating in the Netherlands and popular in the 17th and 18th century, the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje is a highly athletic…
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Neon Tetra
Neon Tetras are small, brightly colored freshwater fish, that are very popular overall -- especially with beginning aquarists.
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Newfoundland
The Newfoundland, like many other versatile and intelligent working breeds, has worn many hats throughout its history. They…
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Norfolk Terrier
The spry and compact Norfolk Terrier is admired for its terrier determination, intellect, and abundant charm. This English…
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Norwegian Buhund
The Nowegian Buhund is a member of the large Spitz class of dogs and originated in the western coastlands of Norway. The…
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Norwegian Elkhound
This sturdy and courageous breed originated in Scandinavia for the purpose of pursuing and helping hunters subdue large game…
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Norwegian Forest Cat
This northern European native is a large cat with a thick double coat suitable for the inclement Norwegian environment in…
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Norwegian Lundehund
This distinctive Spitz was developed on the isolated islands of arctic Norway to hunt Puffins on and around steep, vertical…
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Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest working terriers but packs plenty of substance and work ethic into their compact…
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Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
This spunky retriever comes was developed in its namesake Nova Scotia in the early 19th century to toll, lure, and retrieve…
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Old English Sheepdog
The “OES” is known widely for their unique beauty but under their profuse, distinctive coat lies an intelligent and athletic…
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Oriental
This sleek, sly breed enchants its owners with graceful motion, bold intelligence, and playful curiosity toward everything…
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Otterhound
Though the days of otter hunting are over (thankfully!), the Otterhound still retains the qualities that enabled him to excel…
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Papillon
The dainty Papillon, whose name means “butterfly” in French, has been gracing lucky laps for centuries. They original…
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Parrotlets
Parrotlets, as their name suggests, are tiny members of the parrot family. They are often as bold, active, and intelligent…
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Parson Russell Terrier
With his spunk and athleticism, the Parson Russell Terrier is ready to dive headfirst into any sporting activity, whether…
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Pekingese
The regal Pekingese has been a cherished companion since at least the 8th century. Images of this compact companion abound…
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Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Ebullient. Comical. Charming. Many flattering words can be used to describe the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Their smile is as contagious…
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Persian
Persian cats have been the most popular cat breed in America since 1871 (when the Cat Fanciers’ Association first started…
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Petit Bassett Griffon Vendeen
The lively, low-riding PBGV is a small French hound that can be traced back to the 16th century and is descended from the…
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Pharaoh Hound
As its name suggests, this dog comes from Egypt and has been a treasured hunter and companion since as far back as 3000 BC!…
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Pionus
The Pionus, in general, is known to be a quiet, easy-going, personality compared to many other birds that are kept as pets.
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Plott Hound
This handsome hound is the state dog of North Carolina and descends from Hanoverian Hounds brought from Germany by the Plott…
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Pointer
Pointers have been our distinguished hunting companions since the 1600’s. Their exact ancestry isn’t clear but it is…
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Polish Lowland Sheepdog
These are a very popular breed in their native Poland, where they are known as “Polski Owczarek Nizinny”, or “PONs”.…
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Pomeranian
Few breeds attract as much adoring attention as the Pomeranian. This diminutive breed packs a mighty punch of spirit and…
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Poodle
Personable and intelligent, the poodle is a perennial favorite the world over. In addition to a hypoallergenic coat that…
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Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
The “Pequeno” is a primitive breed descended from ancient hounds brought to the Iberian Peninsula by the Phoenicians…
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Small Animals Finders Guide

Just as the family dog or cat became ubiquitous with American culture after the end of World War II, as people have moved from rural to urban areas, into smaller homes and apartments, our choice in companions has changed, as well: hamsters, ferrets, guinea pigs, rats and other furry critters have become mainstream pets over the last four decades, much to the delight end education of millions! Learn more >>


Interesting Facts

There is evidence of mice being selectively bred dating all the way back to 1,100 BCE, but rats have only been selectively bred for a few hundred years -- and much of that time, for baiting (a bloodsport that is now illegal in most countries). But due to the rat's ability to reproduce quickly and careful selection by their owners, domesticated rats have become noticeably different from their wild counterparts in a remarkably short period of time. Physically, domesticated rats generally have much wider variety of coats, smaller bodies, larger ears, longer tails, and they reach sexual maturity earlier; psychologically, they are generally much calmer around humans -- even affectionate toward their owners -- while being less cautious and likely to startle.

 


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