The number one question we hear at The Animal Store is:

What’s the best first pet?

The answer is easy: it depends.



Unfortunately, that’s not what anyone wants to hear, but it makes sense when you think about it. The best first pet depends on many things, like:

  • who is in your family
  • who will be taking care of this animal
  • how much experience the caretaker has
  • how much attention you can give your pet
  • is someone home during the day
  • where you live
  • are there space restrictions
  • are there allergies to consider

These are just some of the factors to consider. The best first pet for you and your family is not necessarily the same as the best first pet for your neighbor or friend. But we can help. To get you started, we’ve created the Great First Pet badge you see here. Throughout the website, we identify animals that could potentially make a great first pet based on the relative friendliness of the species, as well as level of care and experience required. It’s a good way to help you explore and learn. And our trained staff is here to answer any of your questions.

Great First Pet