There are many options for those looking for a family pet. Here’s a fun quiz to help narrow down your pick for a new animal bestie.
Are you an extrovert, loyal, down for anything — whether it’s a day at a museum or the beach? Then you’re probably a dog person.
There are countless breeds and every dog is an individual, so research is key. But here are some places to start:
- Toy: If you have a small space like an apartment, a toy breed like a Yorkshire terrier, Chihuahua or Maltese might be for you. This is the ultimate lap dog, but many breeds in this category have spunky personalities — so watch out.
- Hound: Sight and scent hounds fall into this varied group. It’s a big category including breeds like the basset hound, beagle, bloodhound, dachshund, English foxhound, greyhound, Irish wolfhound, Rhodesian ridgeback and whippet.
- Herding: Often known for their intelligence, desire to please and work, herding dogs need a job — whether it’s on a police force, like the German shepherd and Belgian Malinois, or working a farm like a border collie. Their job could also involve sitting at your feet as you work, but they may still have energy and mental requirements that can be met through other activities like agility.
Are you an introvert, observant, calculating, prefer to work off-peak hours like a night nurse or bartender? Then you might be a cat person.
Cats like sleeping during the day and are active at night or very early in the morning. They can thrive in a variety of homes.
- Persian: These luxurious-looking cats are known for their sweet temperament and long hair. They need regular grooming.
- Maine Coon: Known as “gentle giants,” these intelligent, trainable cats can get up to 30 pounds. They can learn tricks and commands like dogs.
- Mixed Breed: There are plenty of rescue cats looking for homes that make great pets no matter their mix.
Are you the kind of extrovert who enjoys social situations and big challenges — say, solving complex puzzles or running a marathon — and who needs to stay busy? You seem like a bird person.
Birds typically kept as pets are all naturally flocking birds. They want to be around others of their kind. They are also very high energy. Don’t leave them alone in a cage all day.
- Parakeet: These are popular, lower maintenance, smaller pet birds in the parrot family who can be taught to speak.
- Cockatiel: Known for the crest on top of their head, they are emotional birds that need a lot of attention — or they might get depressed.
- African Grey Parrot: Highly intelligent, long-lived and high-maintenance, these eloquent birds are for very experienced bird owners only.
Are you an introvert who enjoys quiet environments and is detail-oriented? Sounds like a reptile person.
Reptiles may be quiet, but they are complex. They all have very specific lighting, humidity and other environmental needs requiring keen attention to detail.
- Box Turtle: Smaller than tortoises, these are popular pet reptiles. Slow moving but fun to watch, they can live 20-plus years.
- Leopard Gecko: Also long-lived (around 20 years), they can get up to 10 inches long and are often spotted. They’re a good reptile for beginners.
- Corn Snake: Considered one of the more gentle snakes, they’re good for beginners. They can live 20-plus years and eat thawed frozen rodents.
Based on information from Rachel Salant, an animal behavior specialist at Veterinarians.org, who has worked directly with a wide variety of species.
