Read the following passage and then select the correct answer: According to some sources, more than 60 percent of Americans currently own a dog. Dogs can be strong companions, but they also have needs that many people forget to address. Without proper hygiene, dogs can become matted and sick, just the same as any human being. Because of these reasons, it is essential that Americans begin to develop regular habits of dog washing and grooming. Which of the following sentences states the author's claim? According to some sources, more than 60 percent of Americans currently own a dog. Dogs can be strong companions, but they also have needs that many people forget to address. Without proper hygiene, dogs can become matted and sick, just the same as any human being. Because of these reasons, it is essential that Americans begin to develop regular habits of dog washing and grooming.

A claim is a statement about something that an author asserts to be true, and that is arguable. Due to its arguable nature, it is common that a claim is surrounded by information or evidence that supports the claim. In this case, the text's primary point and the author's claim is that it is essential that Americans begin to develop regular habits of dog washing and grooming. The rest of the text is made up of ideas that support why those regular habits should be developed.