Not surprisingly, dogs are UK's favorite pet with over 9 million dogs living in the UK, they bring joy, love, and a great exercise routine to their owners.
They're loyal, intelligent, and always ready for fun. There are countless crossbreeds, but the most common purebred dogs in the UK are: Labrador Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Springer Spaniels and German Shepherds.
Unfortunately, many dog breeds are ‘fashionable’ for some years and then the trend changes so I hope these dogs are well taken care of even after the craze winds down.
I believe cats rank second with approximately 8 million cats living in the UK.
They are independent and affectionate pets, and owning a cat has been shown to have positive effects on mental well-being.
Cats come in all shapes and sizes, with British Shorthairs, Bengals and Siamese among the most popular here in London according to statistics I have read.
Cats make excellent house pets here in the city where space is tight and very few people have a privilege of a fenced off garden.
Amongst my friends, the most popular ‘exotic’ pets are rabbits, Guinea pigs and birds.
Guinea pigs are especially popular with families with young children apparently, maybe as they live for four to eight years, so caring for them doesn't require a long-term commitment.
They can live both indoors and outdoors and thrive in single-sex groups or as a couple alike.
House birds, such as parakeets and canaries are very popular pets in the UK as well.
They bring color and vitality to homes or offices and, although they can be noisy, some say they are a source of relaxing chirping.
Some parrot species can live up to 50 years or more, so owning a bird can be a long-term commitment.
Rabbits are among the friendliest pets, and their playful nature and long ears make them irresistible.
Surprisingly also snakes kept as pets are quite common.
They are unique and fascinating creatures that require a lot of care and attention.
The most common breeds, popular with beginners, include the corn snake and the king and milk snake, while more experienced owners house ball pythons and garter snakes.
Chickens and ducks, besides being a source of fresh eggs, they're also a popular choice for those living in the English countryside.
They're entertaining and provide company for those living in rural areas.
Lizards are an unusual pet choice but they're generally easy to care for and require minimal maintenance, making them a suitable pet for those with limited time.
Among the most common lizards kept as pets in the UK are the bearded dragon, the leopard gecko and the blue-tongued skink.
Turtles and tortoises may be delightful and exciting pets.
These gentle creatures can live for many years, making them a long-term commitment.
Hamsters are a popular choice for first-time pet owners, and it's not hard to see why.
They're adorable, easy to care for, and require relatively little maintenance.
They love to play and run, making them a fun addition to any home.
British people love their pets and they usually take them along when they travel.
Most accommodations in the United Kingdom are pet-friendly and some offer pet sitting options as well.
If people travel abroad they often look for pet sitters (there are dedicated websites and many agencies as well) or they have their pets stay at a pet hotel where they are well taken care of.
Beloved British pet
