Animals · Facts & sources
5 sourced facts about dogs, each with the context behind the number. 4 more are in today's round and appear here after it closes.
Answer87.3 million
The U.S. dog population is large enough that dogs slightly outnumber the human population of most large countries.
Source: American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) (2025) avma.org
Answerdogs, 42.6% vs 32.6% for cats
Dogs beat out cats as the most commonly owned household pet in the U.S., though cat owners average slightly more pets each.
Source: American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) (2025) avma.org
Answerabout 12.7 years
Lifespan varies a lot by breed and size, but the overall median sits close to 13 years.
Source: Wikipedia, Dog (2023) en.wikipedia.org
Answer$598/year
Dog owners spend more on vet care each year than cat owners do, on average.
Source: American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) (2025) avma.org
Answer202 breeds
The AKC's list of recognized breeds has grown steadily over the organization's long history.
Source: Wikipedia, American Kennel Club (2025) en.wikipedia.org