Dogs, Cats, Fish and Hamsters - What You Need to Know about Your New Best Friend

So, you want the companionship that comes with having a new pet…but you don't want to turn your house into a zoo?

That's what we're here for!

Whether you're interested in small dog breeds, different types of cats, hamsters, or fish, we've got it all covered.

Let's start with the most popular of pets…dogs:

From the Affenpinscher to the Yorkshire Terrier, small dog breeds were originally bred to be companions, so you can count on these little guys to be your very best friend! And, since they are so small, they work well in virtually any household - from a big farm to a tiny city apartment. They will be happy to curl up next to you and watch your favorite movie or sit next to you while you read the Sunday paper.

While they will definitely need some exercise (and, of course, lots of love and attention!), these tiny pups don't need as much room to run as the bigger breeds. In fact, a good walk around the block once a day is enough for their little legs!

As an added benefit, when you get a small dog, you can count on your little pal to be with you for a very long time. That's because small dog breeds typically live longer than their larger counterparts - with 12-15 years being the average life span for a small dog.

What about training? Do you know how to train a dog?

Small dog breeds may not be able to pull your sled, but they can certainly be trained. In fact, small dog breeds, on average, tend to be smarter than the larger breeds - meaning that they can pick up commands quickly, even if you don't know how to professionally train a dog.

But what if you're a cat person?

If you don't think that you need to know much about different types of cats to find the right one, think again. Cat breeds may not be discussed as much as dog breeds, but they are definitely important.

Did you know that there are more than 70 different types of cats?

You can start to classify them just by looking at them and figuring out if they belong in the longhaired or shorthaired group. One thing to remember - the longhaired types of cats will require more grooming.

After that, categorizing different types of cats can get a little tricky.

Sure, you can separate some types of cats based on their appearance - like if they have a flat nose, or a bulky build. Some types of cats, though, have a unique personality that you may not be able to spot right off the bat.

For example, the Persian - one of the oldest types of cats - has been making friends with its quiet demeanor for centuries. While the Siamese - another of the oldest cat breeds - has been fascinating people with its raspy voice and attention-seeking ways for centuries. Depending on what kind of feline companion you want, the type of cat you pick is important.

Luckily, no matter which breed you pick, you'll have a friend for life!

But what if you want a friend that's more exotic - like a hamster?

These small, cuddly buddies are fun to play with, but they also need something to play with when you're not around. The right hamster toys can keep your pal entertained, while also giving him the exercise he needs.

Not sure which hamster toys are best, though? Follow these guidelines:

- For ultimate exercise, get a hamster wheel. That way, he can turn his cage into a running trail! Just make sure your wheel is the perfect size for your hamster - and that it has a solid surface that tiny hamster feet can't get stuck in.

- Wooden hamster toys are perfect for chewing. They'll keep your pal's teeth healthy and strong. Just stay away from cedar and evergreen woods. Those can actually hurt your little buddy.

- Avoid plastic hamster toys. Hamsters are notorious chewers, and even a tiny piece of swallowed plastic can be very dangerous.

- Have rabbit toys? They can be used as hamster toys! Just make sure you only give the very smallest rabbit toys to your hamster friend.

What if your pal is more into swimming? A happy, healthy fish needs the right fish tank supplies…

…But what are they?

If you're planning on getting a new underwater addition to your family, you know that the variety of fish tank supplies and toys can seem endless. No matter what else you buy, you have to make room in your budget for these 3 fish tank supplies:

1. Filters and pumps

Your swimming friend can't stay healthy if his water is stagnant and dirty. Filters and pumps keep that from happening.

2. The right lighting

The best choice depends on whether you have live coral and whether you have a saltwater or fresh water tank.

3. The right "extras"

Salt and calcium additives will keep your tank at a healthy level. These may not seem like "fun" fish tank supplies, but they're vitally important for keeping your pal as healthy as possible!

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