Dogs

These descendants of wild wolves in ancient times have won our hearts. It's said that there are over 400 million dogs here in the US, and we love them for lots of reasons: their loyalty and devotion, companionship, playfulness, and intelligence. It's clear why they're called "man's best friend." According to the American Kennel Club there are more than 800 canine breeds, accidental and deliberate. And the dog business is booming, with more and more pet stores, dog parks, and dog whisperers. It doesn't matter whether your pet pooch is an expensive rare breed or a mutt off the street, a working dog, sport dog, or show dog. We love our dogs!

Beer

It's said that beer is the world's oldest alcoholic beverage. References to beer have been found in Egyptian writings more than 8000 years old and actual evidence of beer's existence dates back to the same era, when it seems that housewives earned extra income by brewing and selling beer in their homes. Today brewing is a global business, with beer sales more than quadrupling those of wine and liquor. US beer drinkers range from connoisseurs who taste and analyze and write about beer to college students who love to play the game of Beer Pong. Whether it's a Heineken or Bud, light or full-bodied, bottle or can, drinking beer is one of the most popular "sports" in the US today.