So, the kids have relentlessly pleaded for a pet since they learned to talk and finally, your parental resolve has relented in a moment of weakness and you agreed that you would ‘speak to Santa’.

The next battle is agreeing on the right pet for your family. Many considerations need to be taken into account when choosing the right animal – do any members of your family have allergies? Is your house left empty for most of the day? If you’re a renter are there certain types of pets your landlord doesn’t allow you to keep?

Here is a rundown of classic family pets and the key points to consider when making your decision.

Fish – A cheap and convenient choice of pet for young children and beginners. Easily cared for, they take up little room and come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. With just a feed and a weekly clean of the tank, they’re good to go. Although they’re a good focal point for a room in your home, it has to be said they don’t provide the same emotional reward, though they do have brilliant relaxing qualities!

Rabbits and Guinea Pigs – Brilliant for the outdoors and indoors, provided they can be kept in a secure enclosure safe from wildlife. These animals are brilliant for introducing responsibility to smaller children. They are less of a commitment than cats and dogs for friends and family to look after should you wish to take a family holiday abroad. Smaller still, hamsters, gerbils, mice, and rats are great for introducing responsibility to kids. Requiring less room in the house they are also an easy animal for pet sitters to accommodate while your family is away.

Cats – Intelligent, quiet, and calming, who couldn’t love cats? Like dogs, cats are noted for their ability to encourage positive social behavior in children with autism. They require less of a hands-on approach to care than dogs, but if introduced to a lot of handling when young, are very affectionate pets.

Dog – Dogs make amazing pets, and with so many breeds, there are plenty of options when choosing the right one for your family. There are hypoallergenic breeds such as the Portuguese Water Dog; perfect for those who suffer from allergies. Some breeds require a higher level of physical activity and mental stimulation than others, typically working dogs such as Border Collies, which should be considered when choosing the bread for you.

Taking into consideration the needs of different animals and your lifestyle, you and your family should be able to enjoy owning a pet a fabulous and rewarding experience.