What is the Coolest Pet to Own? Consider These Factors

Pets are a great addition to any family. We love them all, from the smallest among them to the largest. They provide companionship, unconditional love and can be a source of comfort in times of stress or anxiety.

Pets have become a part of our lives. It’s no surprise that they are now considered “cool.” But what makes a pet cool? There are many factors. A pet's cuteness might be the first thing that comes to mind when we think about what earns them this term, but there are other qualities that make them cooler than others.

Some pets are just naturally cool because they have unique features or abilities that make them stand out from the rest (looking at you, Tigers). Other pets may be considered cool because they've been popularized by celebrities or social media influencers. And some pets are cool because they're trendy and new to the market.

The pet industry is a big business and the world is an even bigger place. Pets are a great wellspring of happiness for so many people around the globe. Let’s take a look at which of these emanate the cool factor and which you might not want to bring home.

What Makes a Pet Cool?

A pet can be cool in many ways. It can simply be so because it is rare, has a unique skill, or is just plain, stinking cute. .

The list of charming animals just waiting for you to take them in is numerous. Let’s highlight a few of those:

• Chickens don’t require much even though they will need to live outdoors. Our feathered friends, both chicks and ducks, are adorable when they’re babies. Plus, if you play your cards right, eggs!

• Coming out of left-field is the llama. They have a great and easy-going disposition. Just make sure you have space. Not only are they large, but they are also pack animals; brothers and sisters are a must.

• Tarantulas get a bad wrap. They are compact and will take care of those small insects you supply them with. Can you handle their looks though?

• Don’t let their stomachs fool you. Pot-bellied pigs are as clean as they are intelligent, very much so. They might get bored with you. Make sure you’re ready to keep them entertained.

• Goats might just be the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time!). Plus, you can even do yoga with them.

Not to rain on the pretty cool pet parade, but we think what makes a pet cool is mutual care and admiration between said pet and its family. You want to find a pet that is perfectly bonded with you and yours. One that will share themselves with you as you give them food, home and protection. And, most of all, love.

Pets That are Too Cool for School

Some pets are too cool for school because they are too expensive, rare, or just plain old weird.

There are plenty of resources online and in your neighborhood to assist in raising your cat or your dog. Your llama won't have those same resources. The more exotic the pet, the less likely - if a situation arises - you’ll have the information or ability to handle it quickly and concisely.

Not everyone has a tree that grows money. While you might have the upfront cash-flow to purchase a pet that no one else owns, will you have the space and assets to keep that animal safe and healthy? The answer will, more times than not, be no.

The animals that have been chosen by society as house pets are the easiest and most prolific for a reason. We use the words “exotic” a lot of the time. Maybe we should be using “wild.” If you decide to take these wild animals in, you’re possibly preventing them from obeying their very nature.

Let’s be literal for a second. Are pets too cool for school?

There are many benefits of having pets in schools. Pets can be used to help teach children about responsibility, empathy, and caring for others. They can also aid in calming down students who might be having a bad day.

On the other hand, some people think that pets should not be allowed in school because they can be distracting or harmful to students with allergies. They may even carry diseases that could spread among the students.

Some think that it would be unfair to other students who do not have a pet at home and can’t bring one to school with them every day. This can be easily remedied by denoting a class pet to share amongst the children to help garner the aforementioned skillset.

Legally Cool Pets

The most illegal pets are those that are not allowed to be owned in your country. Some animals are endangered or even dangerous. There was a reason that there wasn’t a Tiger King before COVID…

What makes a pet illegal? In some cases, it's the animal's size. For example, if you live in a condominium or apartment building that doesn't allow pets of a certain size, you'll need to find another place to live with your new pet - even if it's legal. Most of us can’t afford to make that sort of change. It’s simply not worth the time or money.

Other times it's the animal's type - many cities prohibit keeping wild animals as pets. But sometimes all it takes is one violation of local laws to make your pet illegal: leash laws, noise ordinances and safety regulations are just some of the many hurdles that you’ll have to mount to keep your pet within your ownership.

That doesn’t just go for state laws. There can be issues with your pets on a national or international level. Some pets can be illegal because they are not native to the country or they don't have the necessary permits.

Some of the most illegal, or, at the very least, problematic pets:

• Tortoises and certain turtles can carry salmonella, which can make people sick.

• Alligators and crocodiles. These pets can grow to be very large and dangerous, so they're banned in many states.

• Snakes, especially venomous snakes like cobras or vipers, could bite someone or spread disease.

• Bears. Because they’re bears. Cute and cuddly when they’re small, their near 1-ton full-grown frame will almost definitely cause safety issues.

Know the rules. Don’t break them. Having an illegal pet can have serious consequences for the owner, such as fines or even jail time. Owing or housing a pet that’s different and “cool” that you’re not allowed to have? That’s the very definition of NOT cool.

Are Dogs Still Cool?

Come on. Of course, they are. YES!

Dogs are still cool because, more than any other animal, they love unconditionally. They are also great at sensing danger and keeping us safe. Possibly the best family pets on the planet are dogs. We don’t say that lightly.

There’s even science to support how special they are and how advantageous they can be. From social benefits to exercise to assisting with mental health. The last may sound like an overreach. But just petting your pooch will release hormones that make you happier and healthier.

Dare we say it? Dogs are better than cats in many ways. For example, dogs can be trained more easily which means that they're easier to take care of. They want to participate and socialize. They’re an active part of any home they reside in.

What’s the Coolest Dog?

This might be a little bit of a trick question. For us, the best dogs are Doodles.

Sheepadoodles resemble winsome teddy bears. But don't let the plush looks fool you. This highly obedient, calm pup shows anything and everything on its expressive face.

Yes, a Bernese Mountain dog is a herding dog. You shouldn’t expect any less with Bernedoodles. They will wrangle you up on the couch only to snuggle you for the evening. Want to go for a walk? Well, they’re ready to do that too.

Goldendoodles are nothing if not intelligent. Combining the best traits of the two of the most well-behaved and easily trainable breeds. Loyal and loveable, the Goldendoodle is one of the most sought-after Doodles for a reason.

No matter what color, coat or personality, once you’ve decided on the right Doodle for you, the astonishing adventure begins.

So…is your pet cool? Of course, they are! They love you and you love them. What’s important is that you spend every moment you have with them. You share your lives and your space, your food and your spirit.

If you’re giving your all and letting them into your heart, we think that’s pretty cool. The coolest, as a matter of fact.

Jenna and the JLDD Team