Thinking of introducing a new pet into your household? It’s not an easy decision, particularly if your kids haven’t cared for a pet before. Should you start with a fish or other small animal? Or are you ready for a dog or cat?

Take this quiz to help you decide which type of pet best suits your family's lifestyle.

1. How much time have you spent thinking about owning a pet?
A. A lot. I’ve done my research, and my family has spent time at rescue shelters or pet-sitting friends’ dogs.
B. It’s been on my mind. I’ve thought about having a pet companion that shows some affection but doesn’t require too much attention.
C. Sometimes, but not too often. A pet is not my first concern compared to other household priorities.
D. The idea just hit me.

2. How much “free time” do you or your family have?
A. Several hours each day.
B. A couple of hours each day.
C. A few hours scattered throughout the week.
D. I can barely make sense of our crazy schedule.

3. Describe your schedule and flexiblility.
A. I'm home most of the day, and the household is my top priority.
B. I'm in and out of the house throughout the day, but my schedule can be flexible.
C. I work typical business hours outside of the home. My schedule is full but predictable.
D. I barely have time to answer this question.

4. How much space do you have at home?
A. Our home has a large yard or easy access to a large grassy area.
B. Our home has a moderate-sized yard.
C. We have a home with very small yard.
D. We’re in tight quarters with no yard.

5. Who else will regularly interact with the pet?
A. My entire family.
B. Just me.
C. My house guests.
D. Tough to say — I don't know many people who like pets.

6. How much affection do you want to give and receive from your pet?
A. Endless. I want my pet to feel like part of the family.
B. A fair amount, but I need to determine play time.
C. Not a ton. It’s just a pet after all.
D. It depends on my mood.

7. Is the cost of keeping a pet a big constraint?
A. No. My family feels a pet is a worthwhile expense and has budgeted for it.
B. Not if the costs associated with the pet are reasonable.
C. Yes. It will have to cost less than $X per month.
D. Yes. While I have enough saved up for initial pet fees, it'll be hard to cover regular food costs and unexpected vet bills.

8. Why do you want a pet?
A. I’d like to take my pet on daily neighborhood walks, accompany me when I run errands and be a playmate to my children.
B. I'd like to have a companion that’s pretty independent.
C. I'd just like to add life to the house.
D. That’s a really good question. I haven’t given it much thought.

10. Is anyone in your family allergic to animals?
A. We've spent plenty of time around animals, and no one has had a reaction.
B. One or more members of my family are allergic to dogs.
C. Some family members are allergic to both cats and dogs.
D. My whole family has pet allergies.

• Mostly As: You might be the ideal dog owner. You have the time, space, stability and affection needed to raise a dog. There are numerous breeds to choose from, each with different temperaments and personalities. Research them with your family to find the ideal housemate.
• Mostly Bs: You might like owning a cat. Cats tend to be cuddly animals that appreciate some daily attention but remain fairly independent and self-entertained in less space. Create a regular schedule and your cats will adjust to your busy life.
• Mostly Cs: Think about getting a contained or caged pet, such as a fish, bird, rodent, lizard, snake or turtle. These manageable critters aren't as time consuming or expensive as dogs and cats are, and they trigger fewer allergies. How much affection you give them can be up to you.
• Mostly Ds: Don’t rush your decision or be impulsive. Wait for more stability, and find out more about the type of pet that interests you. Don’t want to wait? Try starting out with a fish and see how you do.