When your child begs you for a chimpanzee, it's probably a bit easier to say "No" than if he asks for a guinea pig. But no matter what pet you choose to take into your home, rest assured, your five-year-old will soon tire of feeding it, and ultimately the responsibility for caring for it will fall to you. Keep this in mind while you read over the pros and cons for five different types of pet your children will inevitably ask for:

• Dogs
Pro: Dogs make great companions and playmates for children. They are loving, intelligent creatures generally well-suited to children's unwitting abuses. When you have young children, take special care with large breeds like German Shepherds, Dalmatians, Chows, and Rottweilers.
Con: Because they are pack animals, dogs need companionship more than some other pets. They require exercise, supervision, and space to roam. They shed and, unlike litter-trained animals, they need to go out several times a day. Prepare for a long-term commitment, 10 to 15 years depending on the breed.

• Cats
Pro: Despite their reputations as standoffish loners, cats develop great attachments to their owners. They do not require as much supervision as dogs, and if litter-trained, can be left alone for longer periods.
Con: Cats may not be as tolerant of mishandling from children and their scratches can become infected. When you have elderly or children under five in the home, consider avoiding kittens, who are not as likely to keep their claws retracted. Consider also litter box odors and shedding. Long-term commitment, 15 to 20 years, may be needed.

• Ferrets
Pro: These weasel relatives can provide lots of playful enjoyment for the family. Ferrets are clever, litter-trainable, and affectionate. They sleep about 16 hours a day and don't need a large cage.
Con: Put away the breakables. When they're not sleeping, ferrets thrive on play — all over your house. They need two hours of attention and exercise every day. They have a musky smell. In some states, they're illegal. Like many animals, they do nip. Never leave a ferret alone with an infant. They also can carry salmonella.

• Rodents
Pro: Rodents such as hamsters, guinea pigs, gerbils, rats, and mice are easy to care for and require limited space. They do not need walked, are generally social creatures, and, unless they escape, will not make a mess of the entire house.
Con: Most are docile, but some will bite, especially if they're not used to you. These escape artists only live a few years, so you'll need to explain this to your kids. Once the initial excitement has worn off, your six-year-old will refuse to clean the cage.

• Snakes
Pro: Many snakes, especially boa constrictors raised in your home from infancy, are actually gentle, docile creatures. Even the larger snakes don't require much room. Many eat only once a week.
Con: They're cold-blooded and are highly sensitive to temperature changes. They're carnivorous, so you'll have to feed them either live or frozen insects, mice, or rats, depending on the breed. Snakes, like many reptiles, carry salmonella.

• Fish
Pro: No space needed other than the tank you put them in. Your kids can learn about how different types of fish interact. Fish are a great substitute for those with allergies to pet dander.
Con: Unless you're going for the simple betta, the tank may require a lot of upfront investment and work on your part. Getting the chemicals balanced may take a long time and many fish. Fish also offer no physical contact and have a limited life span.

• Birds
Pro: Birds are clever creatures. Many breeds can be taught to speak, which can offer the kids a lot of enjoyment. Even larger cages generally don't take up much space. Birds are also very affectionate.
Con: Your bird may never speak, or once it starts speaking, it may never shut up. Birds are messy with food and droppings. They chew on furniture. They carry salmonella. Some live as long as 40 or 50 years, so they're a big commitment. These gregarious creatures get lonely if left in their cages all the time.

Written by Iris Wolfe

Which pet does your family enjoy most? E-mail us.