Top 10 Animals That Make Great Pets

#10: Pot-Bellied Pigs

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We know what you’re thinking: A pig for a pet? That sounds too awesome to be true! This breed of swine hails from Vietnam, can grow to weigh between 100-300 pounds and can live 15-20 years! Surprisingly, pot-bellied pigs can also be trained to walk on a leash, play with toys, and be housebroken. Plus, you’ll be in good company with one of these as a pet: after all, George Clooney had his beloved Max for 18 years! Whether wrapped in a blanket or hunting for truffles, pot-bellied pigs are intelligent, friendly, and, believe it or not, sanitary. That’ll do, pig, that’ll do.

These reptiles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, possessing an assortment of unique abilities. Some regenerate their tails, others blend into their environments, and one in particular will help you save a ton of money on your car insurance. As cool as lizards are, they’re also fairly easy to take care of; as long as you provide them with essential lighting, heating, and sustenance, lizards can create a grand, epic world of their own within a small terrarium. Of course a little outside world exposure doesn’t hurt.

If your parents won’t let you get an especially large pet, a guinea pig should be right up your alley. But since they’re often happier and more active with a fellow guinea pig in their cage, you’ll likely want to buy more than one. And don’t forget: they do need sometime out of captivity every day, so they’re a great pet if you have some time to devote to them. While handling these roly-poly hairballs of joy, keep them close to your chest and even closer to your heart. As cuddly as a teddy bear, they’re additionally one of the most darling animalsto dress up in little outfits…assuming you’re into that sort of thing.

Slow, scaly, and shielded by shells, turtles probably won’t appeal to adrenaline junkie pet owners…unless they become mutated and start practicing ninjutsu. For those looking for a more laidback pet, though, you just may find a kindred spirit in this relaxed reptile. Depending on which species you choose, turtles can thrive in water while tortoises spend more time on land. Either way, you can bet that they’ll never run away from home. On top of that, many turtles live for several decades, way longer than most other pets; that means you’re likely to have a friend for the long haul.

Hamsters make for wonderful pets in both family households and schoolhouse classrooms. Fuzzy, frisky, and an enormous amount of fun, one of the added bonuses to having a hamster is all the neat-o accessories you can get for him. Between your hamster’s exercise wheel and crazy tube habitat, it’s almost like you’re buying a toy playset with a living action figure at the center of everything. And when it’s time for the hamster to get moving outside the cage, a hollow sphere will provide the perfect mode of transportation.

Sometimes pets are easier to talk to than people. Birds might not be able to carry on an in-depth conversation, but parrots and other birds can hold their own in a nice chat. Even those that don’t speak can make beautiful music for their owners. While some birds spend most of their days confined to cages, many can be trained to accompany people in their daily business. You’ll want to take certain precautions to make sure they won’t fly away, of course. But sometimes a true fine-feathered friend who slips away miraculously manages to find its way back home. Fingers and feathers crossed.

Inexpensive and low maintenance, goldfish in particular are ideal training pets for children looking to prove they’re responsible enough to care for larger animals. Fishies are just as much for adults as they are for kiddies, however. A lot people turn fishkeeping into a hobby, setting up aquariums and filling them with a diverse, colorful school of gilled chums. This creates a relaxing atmosphere that always makes one feel welcome, whether the tank is in a house or a dentist’s waiting room. Just keep in mind that many of these aquatic buddies have short lifespans.

Unless someone is a vegetable farmer, it’s hard to imagine a person not lighting up when a bunny rabbit hops into their yard. With floppy ears, cottontails, and wide eyes you truly lose yourself in, bunnies are one of the warmest and cutest creatures on the face of the earth. Possessing the fluffy essence of living stuffed animals, who wouldn’t want to cuddle up with a bun bun every day? Remember, though, things can get pretty freaky when two rabbits are caged together.

#2: Cats

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Cats have gotten a bit of a bad rap over the years, occasionally branded as lazy, vain, and devious. Contrary to popular belief, there’s actually much to admire about cats. They’re playful, quick on their feet, and exquisite piano players…with assistance. Once a kitty’s purred its way into your home, you’ll want to spend hours petting the fury feline as it falls asleep in your lap. If you need a little alone time, however, cats can always keep themselves occupied with a ball of string, a scratching post, or a laser pointer. Before we unleash our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions: - Ferrets - Chinchillas - Domesticated Skunk - Mice / Rats - Hedgehogs

#1: Dogs

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Cats, hamsters, and pigs aren’t necessarily for everyone, but how could a human being not love dogs? One of the most appealing things about canines is that there’s an assortment of different breeds to choose from. Be it big or small, perky or easy-going, butch or fancy, there’s a dog out there to match every person’s taste. No matter want kind of dog fits your profile, you can count on it being loving and loyal to the end. That’s why they’re still referred to as man’s best friend. Do you agree with our list? What other animals make great pets? For more entertaining Top 10s published every day, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.