Leslie Massey
Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, with over 60% of households owning at least one pet. Dogs are the most popular, followed by cats, but there are several other options to consider when choosing a pet in Australia. This includes the size of your living space, the amount of time you can dedicate to your pet, and the cost of keeping a pet.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Most popular pets | Dogs, Cats, Fish |
| Good for small spaces | Fish, Birds, Ferrets, Snakes, Bearded Dragons |
| Require company of their own kind | Birds, Rabbits |
| Require training | Dogs, Cats |
| Low maintenance | Fish, Birds |
| Good for children | Dogs, Cats, Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Birds, Fish, Tortoises, Bearded Dragons, Budgies |
| Affectionate | Cats, Dogs, Cockatiels, Cockatoos, Budgies |
| Require license | Reptiles, Snakes |
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What You'll Learn
- Dogs: the most popular pet in Australia, but they require training and space
- Cats: the second most popular, but may not be allowed by landlords
- Fish: low-maintenance and great for small spaces
- Birds: can be affectionate and good for apartments, but need attention
- Reptiles: may require a license, but are generally less responsibility than cats and dogs
Dogs: the most popular pet in Australia, but they require training and space
Dogs are the most popular pets in Australia, with almost two in five households owning a dog. They are man's best friend for a reason, but they require a lot of time, space, and training.
If you are considering getting a dog, it is important to first evaluate whether you have the time to train a puppy. Puppies and young dogs need time spent on toilet training and basic obedience training, and they require lots of socialisation and regular small meals throughout the day during the first six months of life. Adopting an adult dog who is already house-trained and socialised may be a better option for some.
Australian dog breeds, in particular, are known for their high energy levels, having originated for specific working purposes like herding and hunting. These dogs may not be ideal for first-time owners or those with a more sedentary lifestyle. Dingoes, for example, are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world and are known for their wild temperament. They need plenty of space, exercise, and stimulation and are easily distressed if separated from their pack or if their routine changes.
If you have a small backyard or poor fencing, a dog may not be a good choice. Dogs can be expensive, with large dogs requiring more food and some breeds needing regular coat clipping. Dogs are social animals, and certain breeds may require more exercise and stimulation than others. It is important to consider the time and financial commitments required when deciding whether to get a dog.
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Cats: the second most popular, but may not be allowed by landlords
Cats are the second most popular pets in Australia, with nearly three out of ten households owning one. They are considered quieter pets and are therefore a good option for those living in apartments or in strata spaces. They are also a good choice for those who are renting, as they are easier to care for than dogs and can be left alone for longer periods.
However, one of the challenges of owning a cat in Australia is that landlords may not allow them. This is a common issue, as Australia has one of the highest incidences of pet ownership in the world, and yet many landlords do not list their properties as pet-friendly. While the legislation is changing to accommodate the high number of pet owners, and it is now harder for landlords to refuse permission, it is still a challenge many renters face.
In New South Wales (NSW), for example, landlords cannot refuse a tenant's request to keep a pet without a valid reason, and they must provide a clear reason for refusing. If a tenant believes the landlord's response is unreasonable, they can challenge it. The tenant can negotiate with the landlord, and if that doesn't work, they can seek advice from their local Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service. Ultimately, the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) will decide whether the tenant can keep their pet.
Strata schemes may also have their own bylaws that prohibit pets or impose conditions on pet ownership. These bylaws cannot be used to impose a blanket ban on all pets, but they can prohibit pets that would unreasonably interfere with or impact other occupants. If a pet owner's strata scheme has such a bylaw, they can apply to their local council to seek an order against it.
Overall, while cats are a popular pet choice in Australia, those wishing to own one should be aware of the potential challenges posed by landlords and strata schemes, especially if they are renting.
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Fish: low-maintenance and great for small spaces
Fish are a great option for Australians seeking a low-maintenance pet, particularly those living in small spaces or rental properties with pet restrictions. With approximately 8.7 million pet fish in the country, they are a popular choice for good reason.
One of the key advantages of keeping fish is their adaptability to various living environments. Fish can thrive in small spaces, making them ideal for apartments or other strata living arrangements. Additionally, their tanks can be customised to fit specific areas, ensuring they take up minimal room. This flexibility is especially beneficial for those with limited backyard space or inadequate fencing for larger pets like dogs.
Fish are also relatively low-maintenance pets, requiring less time and attention than other animals. They are well-suited for individuals with busy schedules, such as students or those with demanding jobs. While fish do need regular maintenance to ensure their health and a clean environment, the time commitment is generally lower compared to other pets.
The cost of keeping fish as pets can vary. While the initial purchase of fish may be inexpensive, setting up and maintaining a tank can incur higher expenses. It is important to consider factors like tank size, filtration systems, lighting, and food costs when budgeting for fish as pets.
When choosing fish as pets, it is essential to select the right species for your needs. Popular options in Australia include colourful Betas (or Bettas), gentle Molly fish, goldfish, Danios, and Tetras. These species offer a range of colours, activity levels, and care requirements, allowing you to find the perfect aquatic companion for your home.
In Australia, it is important to note that there are specific regulations surrounding the import and ownership of live fish. Only permitted species listed in the import conditions can be imported, and certain government approvals may be necessary. Additionally, releasing non-native fish into natural waterways is prohibited due to potential ecological impacts.
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Birds: can be affectionate and good for apartments, but need attention
Birds can make fantastic pets in Australia, especially for those living in apartments or other small spaces. They are low-maintenance, and there is a bird species for everyone! Breeds like finches, cockatiels, and budgies are small, low-maintenance, and great for beginners.
However, it is important to note that birds are social creatures, and some birds need the company of each other to stay happy and healthy. For example, cockatiels are intelligent and affectionate but do not like being alone, so it is best to keep them in pairs. Similarly, parrots are very intelligent, and they enjoy learning and doing new things. Without things to do, they can develop serious psychological and behavioural problems, such as pulling out their own feathers or adopting repetitive movements. Toys should be rotated regularly to prevent boredom, and most indoor or non-aviary birds enjoy free exercise time outside the cage.
In addition to social needs, birds have specific dietary requirements. Obesity is the biggest killer of pet birds, and a common mistake made by bird owners is only feeding their birds seeds, which are fatty and lack essential vitamins and minerals. Instead, feed your bird commercially prepared bird pellets and fresh vegetables daily. Birds should also have daily access to cuttlefish bone, which provides trace minerals and helps keep their beaks trim.
Overall, birds can be affectionate and well-suited for apartments in Australia, but they do need attention, social interaction, and proper care to ensure a healthy and happy life.
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Reptiles: may require a license, but are generally less responsibility than cats and dogs
Reptiles are rising in popularity as pets in Australia, especially among those with smaller living arrangements or those who want a pet that requires less responsibility than cats or dogs. Reptiles are protected under Australian law, and it is illegal to keep exotic, non-Australian reptiles in captivity. To keep a reptile as a pet, you will need to acquire a license from the state or territory wildlife authority.
Before getting a reptile, it is important to do your research and decide on the species you want to keep. Some reptiles, such as pythons, dragons, skinks, and turtles, are commonly kept as pets, while others like geckos, legless lizards, monitors, crocodiles, and venomous snakes require more knowledge and experience. It is also important to consider the health requirements of your reptile and find a veterinarian who treats reptiles.
Feeding your reptile is another important consideration. Some reptiles, like snakes and goannas, eat entire rodents, while others may require live crickets or thawed frozen mice. It is essential to be comfortable with your reptile's diet and to ensure you can meet all its needs in captivity.
One popular reptile pet in Australia is the Central Bearded Dragon, which is native to the country and is interesting and easy to care for. Bearded dragons have fairly complex nutritional and environmental requirements, but they are a good option for beginner reptile owners.
Overall, reptiles can make great pets for those who are willing to do the necessary research and obtain the required licenses. They may require less day-to-day responsibility than cats or dogs, but it is important to be committed to providing proper care and meeting all their needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Dogs are the most popular pets in Australia, with around 48% of households owning a dog. Cats are the second most popular, with around 33% of households owning one.
Fish, birds, and rabbits are great options for small spaces or spaces with pet regulations. Fish are low-maintenance and don't require much space. Birds, such as budgies, cockatiels, and cockatoos, are also suitable for small spaces and can be affectionate and great for beginners.
Bearded dragons, a type of lizard native to Australia, are moderately sized and easy for beginner reptile owners. They have a lifespan of 10-15 years and are gentle and fairly easy to care for. However, they do have complex nutritional and environmental requirements and may require a license depending on where you live.
