Pampering popular among posh pet owners

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Most people treat their dogs like members of the family. Gone are the days of tying up the family pet in a drafty doghouse. Today, he gets his own plush bed right in front of the fire or at the foot of his parents' bed.

According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), pets in the U.S. are enjoying more attention and more material wealth than ever before. However, pet products and other niceties are only part of the story. Here's a look at some pet trends.

Pet Pampering

Dog and cat pampering is a common trend. Many pet parents allow their pets to sleep in bed with them, or in an equally comfortable retreat. Still, others celebrate their pets' birthdays and buy them gifts. Dressing up pets, particularly small dog breeds like Malteses, Yorkshire terriers, and Chihuahuas, is all the rage -- especially among celebrities. From Halloween costumes to designer duds, these pets sometimes have more elaborate wardrobes than some people.

Pet Names

Human and sophisticated names are winning over pets named for personality traits or appearance. Forget Fido or Fluffy. People like Max, a top name for both cats and dogs.

Pet-Friendly Travel

If enjoying your pet at home is not sufficient, a greater number of establishments are becoming dog-friendly. Travel guides and Web sites offer listings of U.S. and Canadian restaurants, stores and hotels that welcome friends of the four-legged variety. Now your pet can also enjoy some time away from home.

Designer Breeds

President Barack Obama and his family were considering a designer breed as a potential pet for the White House -- the Labradoodle, which is a cross between a Labrador and a Poodle. Other breeds, such as the Peke-a-Pom, Cock-a-Poo and Yorki-Poo, are some of the other designer breeds you can find nowadays. It has become quite chic to own a designer breed, which many people find interesting considering these aren't purebred dogs. In fact, crossed breeds are becoming almost as popular as American Kennel Club (AKC)-recognized canines. Despite being just a well-planned "mutt," designer dogs still garner high sale prices and interest.

Keep in mind that many dog clubs have not yet recognized these designer mixes and possibly never will. Therefore, before you spend a lot of money on one of these dogs, consider a mutt from a shelter, which will prove equally lovable.