Menu

Download our Petland App today for information on your local Petland's Available Pets and Pet Supplies. All at the tips of your fingers!

Petland Logo
Login/Register

Please create a free account below, or login by clicking here.

Pet Store Banner Pet Store Banner

, ,

Oh-So-Cuuuute! American Pet Culture and Why We Love Puppies

October 1, 2020

Around 85 million American families own a pet, which is about two-thirds of US households! And unsurprisingly, dogs and cats are the most commonly found pets in the nation.

But while these are the top 2, dogs significantly outnumber the number of cats here.

So why do Americans have a pet-obsessed culture and why do we love puppies so much? Read on to find out!

History of Pets in America

According to historians, dogs were first domesticated 20,000 to 40,000 years ago. It’s highly likely that they were the first animals we tamed and made into pets!

As humankind expanded, so did the presence of dogs and other domesticated animals and pets. Just 7,000 years ago, dogs were pretty much present in all corners of the earth.

Of course, once America became colonized, European dog breeds were brought over as well. Many Native American tribes also used these pooches to help them in their daily lives.

When dogs were first used for purposes such as agricultural help, they were bred to be larger and stronger. But as we started using dogs more as companions, breeders started changing their methods and instead, aimed to breed smaller and cuter dogs that’d fit in perfectly in homes.

Why Do We Love Dogs So Much?

The love of dogs isn’t an American-only phenomenon. If you look at the entire world, the USA tops the charts for top dog populations. However, many other countries have huge dog populations, such as China and Russia.

But why are there so many in this nation? Here are a few factors:

And just consider how adorable dogs are. Everyone’s a sucker for those large puppy dog eyes. And dogs have such a cheerful and enthusiastic demeanor that it’s hard to resist falling in love.

Plus, canines give you unconditional love and are fiercely loyal. Considering that over a quarter of American households are solo ones, having a pooch as a companion can help fight off loneliness.

Another reason why Americans love dogs so much is that with most breeds, they get along great with humans of all ages. This means that if you plan on having children, you won’t have to worry about having an aggressive animal in the house. In fact, many pups end up being protective of their new human siblings!

Purchase a Puppy or Two for Your Home

Now you know a little more about America’s pet history and why we love puppies so much.

Considering that dogs have been domesticated since the beginning of mankind’s history, it should come as no surprise that they make excellent and loyal companions. So if you feel like expanding your household, then you certainly can’t go wrong with a new pup or two! Dog ownership is definitely something very rewarding.

If you’re ready to get some new furry family members, then make sure to check out Petland’s available puppies now!

Related Articles

View All Articles

  • Dogs That Enjoy a Couch and Movie More Than a Yard and A Ball

    Dogs That Enjoy a Couch and Movie More Than a Yard and A Ball

    All dogs enjoy the smell of fresh air, chasing a ball, and running in circles outside. After all, they are creatures who need exercise and sunlight, and the feeling of freedom. ...

    Read This Blog

  • Best City Dogs

    Best City Dogs

    The excitement, culture, and nightlife of living in a major city is something many people enjoy. Normally a major city is a fast moving and lively place to live. Due to how many...

    Read This Blog

  • Top Six Most Recently Registered Dog Breeds

    Top Six Most Recently Registered Dog Breeds

    For a dog breed to find itself on the American Kennel Club’s registry, certain specific requirements must be fulfilled. This process is not an easy one, as the American Ke...

    Read This Blog

  • Dogs are Amazing!

    Dogs are Amazing!

    We all know that our pups are amazing and bring us a lot of enjoyment and love. There is a reason why they are referred to as “man’s best friend.”  WeR...

    Read This Blog

  • Top Companion Dogs

    Top Companion Dogs

    Some dogs are bred for hunting, others for herding, and some for just being adorable and wanting to cuddle up! These pups are known as companion dogs and generally have extremel...

    Read This Blog

  • High Energy Dogs

    High Energy Dogs

    Are you looking for a fast-paced high energy dog that will keep you active? If so, here is a list of the most energetic dog breeds that will keep you and your kids on the move! ...

    Read This Blog

  • The Seven Oldest Breeds of Dogs

    The Seven Oldest Breeds of Dogs

    They are known as man’s best friend and recent research indicates that they may have been given this title longer than we first believed. Although many dog breeds date bac...

    Read This Blog

  • They’ll Fight Like Cats and Dogs! Or will they?

    They’ll Fight Like Cats and Dogs! Or will they?

    As the saying goes, they’ll fight like cats and dogs… Not necessarily if you find the right dog. But what qualities does a dog need in order for it to get along well...

    Read This Blog

  • Top Pups for First Time Dog Owners

    Top Pups for First Time Dog Owners

    Adding a dog to your family is a very fun and exciting part of life, however, does come with some challenges. Realistically, your pup is a part of your family and will be for ma...

    Read This Blog

  • Tips for Keeping Your Pup Healthy in the Winter

    Tips for Keeping Your Pup Healthy in the Winter

    With winter here, we all know the challenges of staying warm and safe. We must also take into consideration the well-being of our pets as the temperature drops. Here are a few s...

    Read This Blog

  • Top Five Dog Breeds Who Love to Play Outdoors

    Top Five Dog Breeds Who Love to Play Outdoors

    If you love spending time in the great outdoors and are considering adding a fur-legged friend to your family this blog is for you. Making sure you find a dog that enjoys spendi...

    Read This Blog

  • Help! My Dog Ate Chocolate!

    Help! My Dog Ate Chocolate!

    We all know that the only time we should use the words chocolate and dog in the same sentence is when we use them to identify a “Chocolate Lab.” Chocolate, although ...

    Read This Blog

Help Need Help?