Pet ownership evolved from a purely cosmetic background detail into an active management system with economic returns. The baseline rules shifted dramatically following recent content rollouts.
| Mechanic | Legacy Era (v1.0, v1.5) | Modern Era (v1.6+) |
|---|---|---|
| Bowl Limit | 1 fixed bowl near farmhouse | Multiple pet bowls across property |
| Bowl Relocation | Permanently locked to spawn tile | Movable at Robin's Carpentry Shop |
| Adoption Limit | 1 starter dog or cat | Multiple pets via Marnie's licenses |
| Neglect Penalty | 0 decay, 0 points earned | 0 decay, 0 points earned |
| Max Friendship Utility | 1 Grandpa point only | Grandpa point plus daily gift drops |