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Pets Around the World: How Different Cultures Show Love Through Pets

Lifestyles of the Furry & Fabulous 4 min read

While the ways we show our devotion might look a little different depending on where we are in the world, the core sentiment remains exactly the same. Pets are family! Read on to discover how pets around the world are being seen more and more like family members.

Enrichment-Focused Lifestyles in Japan

Japan is one of the top places for pet parenthood. It’s estimated that over 70% of households have at least one pet, and that 13 billion dollars are spent on pets every year. And when people can’t own pets, they’re visiting dedicated pet cafes where you can spend time with cats, dogs, and other critters. In Tokyo alone, there are over 150 such cafes!

In Japan, living spaces are often cozy and compact. Therefore, pet parenthood becomes all about the ways pet parents can intentionally enrich their fur kids’ lives. While not every home has a big backyard, Japanese pet parents value creating enriched indoor spaces and curated outdoor experiences, whether it’s with toys, games, or wholesome treats.

Pets as Family in America

Attitudes towards pets have changed a lot in America. The family dog is now, well, just family! And they’re as popular as ever. In the US alone, over 85 million households have fur kids.

Western pet parents treat their animals much like children, celebrating birthdays and buying holiday gifts. Dogs regularly join their owners at outdoor patios, stay with them at pet-friendly hotels, and pose for family photos.

Pet parents collectively spend billions on their fur kid. But more than ever, they expect the same level of care and quality for their fur kiddos as they do themselves. At NHV, we can’t help but agree that pets don’t deserve less just because they’re pets. To us, and millions around the globe, we realize their needs are just as complex as ours. That’s why it’s better to keep it 100% natural and human-grade, like our supplements.

Ceremonial Appreciation in Nepal

Many dogs in Nepal are free-roaming, cared for by the community. They help to protect livestock from predation and help to keep pesky monkeys away from farms.

Certain festivals even celebrate dogs with their very own day! Kukur Tihar, originating in Nepal but celebrated in parts of India, is a time when dogs are adorned with special garlands and dyes. They’re also treated with special foods, including meat, eggs, and milk. It’s a day to truly appreciate and respect our four-legged friends for all that they do for us.

Continuing Histories in Mexico

Mexico has a deep connection with dogs that goes back thousands of years to ancient civilizations like the Aztecs and Mayans. In these cultures, dogs were viewed as protectors and spiritual guides.

One example is the Xolo dog. These hairless dogs were named after the Aztec god Xolotl. They were believed to guard the living and guide the souls of the dead through the underworld. Another ancient breed is the iconic Chihuahua, bred for companionship, pest control, and even spiritual duties!

Today, this rich history blends beautifully into modern Mexican life. And these fur kids are taking center stage more than ever with the rise of the “perrijo” (a blend of the Spanish words “perro” and “hijo,” meaning dog-child). As it turns out, the concept of the fur kid is a global phenomenon!

Banning Animal Cruelty in Brazil

Brazil has been making waves in the headlines as they continue to push for animal rights in the law. A few years back, they enacted the “Sansão” law. This new law made animal abuse punishable for up to 2 – 5 years. Today, Brazil is passing even more animal rights laws, with a recent example including the banning of cosmetic tattooing and piercing on our pets.

With many fur kids on the streets, tons of Brazilians are adopting fur kids as rescues, and many non-profits are working to help fur kids without homes, it’s no wonder that many Brazilian pet parents are calling their dog or cat “filha” or “filho” for daughter or son!

The Universal Language of Love

No matter where we live, our furkids have a magical way of making the world feel a little bit friendlier. And learning about all the different ways that pet parents love their little ones reminds us that we’re all connected through our care of pets.

Do you have a fur kid going through a chronic health condition, or do you just want to explore ways to keep them healthy for years to come? Reach out to our Pet Experts using the chat button below for natural supplement suggestions!

NHV Pet Experts

NHV Pet Experts

We have a dedicated group of pet expert professionals, including veterinarians, vet techs, and other pet professionals to guide you through any questions. We’re committed to your pet’s wellness and can offer additional tips, resources, nutritional advice, and more.

Published: June 24, 2026

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