The best pet frogs all have a few things in common. Not only are they fairly easy to care for, but they often have a unique look or behavior that makes them quite entertaining to own!
This list of pet frog types will help you brainstorm and decide which species is the right fit for you.
1. White Lipped Tree Frog
Due to its unique appearance, exotic status, and docile nature, the white lipped tree frog is easily one of the best pet frogs around. These bright green frogs are native to Australia and New Guinea, making them an excellent addition to your home if you’re looking for a more exotic pet.
They have a distinctive white stripe that runs from their lower lip all the way to their hind legs, which is easily their most eye-catching feature. Even though these are the largest tree frog species on Earth, these gentle giants are perfect for beginners and easy to handle.
Despite being a bit less hardy than some other types of pet frogs, it’s still quite manageable to allow this species to thrive.
White lipped tree frogs generally get along well when housed together in small groups, so you don’t need to worry about aggression or territorial disputes. This makes them a great choice if you’re into the idea of having a group of these critters hopping around your tank!
- Size: 3-5 inches
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 30 gallon
2. Gray Tree Frog
If you’re searching for a small, active, and curious pet, the gray tree frog might just be the perfect fit. These little creatures are native to North America and can be found anywhere from Maine to Texas and Florida.
With their wartier appearance and muddy gray coloration, this type of pet frog may not be as visually striking as some other species on our list, but their active and inquisitive personalities more than make up for it!
Gray tree frogs thrive in captivity when given the proper care and environment. A 10 or 20-gallon tank with plenty of height for climbing is ideal for these arboreal amphibians. Make sure to include lots of branches, plants, and hiding spots so your frog can explore its surroundings comfortably. It’s also essential to maintain proper temperature and humidity levels within their enclosure to ensure their health and well-being.
When choosing a gray tree frog as a pet, it’s crucial to purchase from reputable breeders rather than capturing wild specimens. This helps protect wild populations while ensuring that you receive a healthy pet that has been bred under controlled conditions.
- Size: 1.75 – 2.5 inches
- Lifespan: 7-9 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 10-15 gallons
3. American Green Tree Frog
These small green frogs are native to the central and southeastern United States and are perfect for those who don’t have room for a large tank or want a long-term commitment.
One of the many reasons why American green tree frogs are some of the best pet frogs is their ease of care. They don’t like being handled but require very little attention, making them ideal for busy owners.
Their diet consists of small insects such as crickets and fruit flies, which are readily available at most pet stores.
Their bright green coloration provides an attractive display in your terrarium while their lively nocturnal behavior adds excitement during the evening hours.
- Size: 2.5 inches
- Lifespan: 2-5 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 10 gallons
4. Green & Black Dart Frog
The green & black dart frog makes an excellent choice for a beginner amphibian enthusiast who’s ready to learn and branch off from some of the more standard types of pet. These frogs are native to Central and South America where they thrive on the rainforest floor. Their striking green and black coloration is not just for show – it serves as a warning to predators that they possess poison glands!
Despite this, with proper precautions in place, these tiny frogs can still be fantastic pets. One of the main reasons for this is their active and entertaining nature. They’re constantly on the move, searching for food or hopping around their enclosure, making them quite fun to observe.
Their diet primarily consists of ants, but they’ll also happily eat other small insects like fruit flies and springtails. In captivity, it’s essential to provide them with a suitably sized enclosure complete with hiding spots and live plants that replicate their natural habitat.
- Size: 1-2 inches
- Lifespan: 10 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 10 gallons
5. African Bullfrog
With their impressive size and unique behaviors, the African bullfrog can be a fascinating addition to your home. These gentle giants are known for being low maintenance and easy to care for, which makes them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced frog enthusiasts alike.
Their large size (males can grow to reach almost 10 inches in length) sets them apart from most other pet frogs, so if you’re looking for something a bit different, the African bullfrog is the perfect pick.
In addition to their physical attributes, African bullfrogs have some interesting behaviors that make them even more appealing as pets. They spend the majority of their time buried underground in order to maintain moisture levels in their bodies, which means they need a spacious tank filled with moist substrate like coco coir or sphagnum moss for burrowing. They are also quite tolerant of occasional handling once they become accustomed to it, so you can enjoy interacting with these pet frogs without causing undue stress!
Their long lifespan allows you plenty of time to bond over the years, making them a great option for those who want a more long-term commitment.
- Size: 10 inches
- Lifespan: 15-25 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 10-20 gallons
6. Crowned Tree Frog
If you’re seeking a visually striking and easy-going pet, the crowned tree frog is an ideal choice! These unique pet frogs are known for their three prominent spines forming a crown on the back of their heads, giving them a royal appearance that sets them apart from other species.
Not only do they have an intriguing look, but they also possess a calm temperament that makes them easier to handle compared to some other types of pet frogs. This combination of beauty and personality makes the crowned tree frog a good choice for both beginners and experienced owners.
Crowned tree frogs are adaptable creatures with a widespread natural range, allowing them to thrive in various environments. This adaptability means that they can be relatively low-maintenance pets as long as you provide them with the proper care and conditions (namely appropriate temperature and humidity levels) within their enclosure.
Additionally, their diet mainly consists of insects like crickets or roaches, making it easy to maintain proper nutrition for your new pal.
One thing to keep in mind when handling your crowned tree frog is to be cautious around its crown-like spines. While they’re not dangerous or toxic, these pointed protrusions can cause minor discomfort if pressed against your skin too hard. But don’t let this deter you, owners handle them all the time!
- Size: 2-3 inches
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 30 gallons (for a group of them)
7. Tomato Frog
Looking for a small, vibrant, and hardy pet frog? The tomato frog might just be the perfect match for you! These fascinating creatures are native to northern Madagascar and have adapted well to various environments, making them an excellent choice for beginner frog enthusiasts.
With their attractive bright colors and modest size, tomato frogs have become quite popular in the pet trade. Not only will they bring a burst of color to your home, but they also have intriguing behaviors to watch (primarily their tendency to burrow).
One of the reasons why tomato frogs are considered one of the best types of pet frogs is their adaptability and low-maintenance nature. In the wild they thrive in different habitats such as wooded coasts and rainforests, which makes them hardy creatures that adjust well to captive life. In fact, with proper care, these little amphibians can live up to 10 years!
Their semi-fossorial nature means they prefer remaining partially buried while keeping an eye on their surroundings. This behavior makes them entertaining to observe (and sometimes challenging to spot).
You don’t need extensive experience with frogs or exotic pets in order to help this species thrive. Just make sure you provide them with a suitable environment that includes the appropriate substrate for burrowing, plenty of hiding spots, and adequate humidity levels. Their diet consists of insects like crickets or worms which are also fairly easy to manage.
- Size: 2.5-4 inches
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 10 gallons
8. African Dwarf Frog
If you’re looking for a unique aquatic companion that’s perfect for both fish and frog enthusiasts, the African dwarf frog is an ideal choice!
These small, fully aquatic amphibians thrive in a 5-gallon aquarium filled with water and plants. They’re great swimmers and only come to the surface to breathe, making them excellent tank mates for any peaceful community fish you might have.
Their adaptability and gentle nature make them some of the best pet frogs for beginners. As an African dwarf frog owner, you’ll enjoy watching them as they navigate through their underwater world.
Besides being entertaining to watch, these frogs are relatively low-maintenance pets. If you already have experience maintaining an aquarium, owning African dwarf frogs will be a breeze.
- Size: 3 inches
- Lifespan: 5 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 5 gallons
9. Pacman Frog
Originating from the Amazonian Basin of South America, pacman frogs boast a variety of colors, ranging from orange-brown to lime green. Their most distinctive feature is their large mouths that make up half of their head size, earning them their unique name.
As a potential owner, you’ll find that pacman frogs can be quite manageable with proper care and attention. Although they are larger than many pet frogs, they can thrive in captivity as long as you provide them with suitable living conditions.
However, be aware that they can be aggressive and have sharp teeth. Some owners like to wear protective gloves when handling or cleaning their habitat.
Pacman frogs make fantastic pets even for beginners who are learning how to care for frogs. Their beautiful colors and unique features add an interesting touch to any home or classroom setup.
- Size: 2.5-7 inches (females are larger than males)
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 10 gallons
10. White’s Tree Frog
If you’re searching for an ideal pet frog that’s perfect for kids or beginners, look no further than the adorable and hardy White’s tree frog! This charming little amphibian is known for its friendly demeanor and ease of care, making it a fantastic choice for those new to keeping frogs as pets.
With their silver-green coloration and cute faces that seem to be always smiling, White’s tree frogs are not only visually appealing but also captivating creatures to observe.
One of the most interesting traits of White’s tree frogs is their exceptional ability to regulate their internal temperature and moisture levels. This adaptability allows them to thrive in various environments, from natural habitats like forests and swamps to man-made settings such as bathrooms or water tanks.
Their arboreal nature also means they enjoy climbing and exploring vertical spaces in their enclosure, providing endless entertainment for both you and your new pet.
The fact that these frogs are naturally calm makes handling them a breeze, which can be particularly important if young children will be interacting with them. Their docile nature during the day combined with their nocturnal feeding habits make them a low-maintenance yet engaging addition to any household.
- Size: 3-5 inches
- Lifespan: 7-10 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 15-20 gallons
11. Waxy Monkey Frog
You’ll be amazed by the captivating waxy monkey frog, another fantastic choice for frog enthusiasts who love observing their pets rather than handling them!
Native to the Amazon Rainforest, this South American species is known for its bright green color, waxy appearance, and affinity for leafy branches. The waxy coating not only gives them their name but also serves as a protective barrier that prevents their skin from drying out. As a result, these frogs are more adaptable to varying humidity levels compared to other kinds of pet frogs on this list.
A 20-gallon aquarium with plenty of climbing opportunities on glass walls would make an ideal home for your waxy monkey frog. These fascinating creatures prefer humid environments that mimic the conditions of their native rainforests. Although they don’t particularly enjoy being handled, they can still be quite entertaining to watch as they explore their surroundings or rest in leafy branches.
Their inquisitive eyes and unique appearance add to the charm of having one as a pet. Choosing a waxy monkey frog as your pet means you’ll have an easy-to-care-for friend with an interesting personality. While it’s true that some individuals may tolerate handling better than others due to their size and ability to adjust to drier weather conditions, it’s best to keep interactions minimal and focus on providing them with a suitable environment filled with climbing opportunities and proper humidity levels.
- Size: 2-3 inches
- Lifespan: 8 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 20 gallons
12. Yellow-Banded Poison Dart Frog
With its stunning black and yellow splotches, a yellow-banded poison dart frog can make a truly eye-catching addition to your home. These vibrant frogs are native to South America and are known for their striking appearance and insectivorous diet. They mainly eat small fruit flies and pinhead crickets. They’re some of the best types of pet frogs around due to their bright colors and manageable care requirements.
While the bumblebee dart frog may not be the most hands-on pet due to its preference for minimal handling, this doesn’t diminish how enjoyable they are to have as pets. Their lively personalities will keep you entertained as you watch them exploring their habitat or hunting down prey. On top of that, watching these amphibians interact with each other can be particularly interesting since they display unique behaviors such as territoriality and courtship rituals.
- Size: 1.5-2 inches
- Lifespan: 10 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 10 gallons
13. American Bullfrog
Owning an American bullfrog can be a truly rewarding experience. These massive frogs bring a unique and fascinating presence to your home. Their impressive size and powerful build makes them quite the conversation starter. As voracious eaters, you’ll enjoy watching them devour various foods with gusto, allowing you to better appreciate their natural hunting instincts.
Having an American bullfrog as a pet also offers educational opportunities. You can observe firsthand how they adapt to different environments and learn about their life cycle from tadpole to adult frog. They are also known for their deep and resonant calls, which can provide insight into the communication methods of frogs. Additionally, since they have been successfully bred in captivity, obtaining one is relatively easy through aquarium shops, pet stores, or reptile expos.
Caring for an American bullfrog does require some level of commitment due to their large size and specific habitat needs. However, these challenges can be easily met if you’re willing to do your homework. Your primary concerns will be maintaining water quality, temperature control, and nutritional needs.
- Size: 8 inches
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 20 gallons
14. Amazon Milk Frog
If you’re looking for a captivating and visually stunning pet frog, the Amazon milk frog is an excellent choice to consider. These eye-catching frogs not only boast a unique coloration, but also exhibit interesting behaviors that make them very fun to watch. They’re also relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced herpetology enthusiasts.
However, it’s important to remember that they don’t enjoy being handled too often. That means if you’re someone who prefers a hands-on ownership experience, this may not be the ideal choice for you.
One of the key factors in successfully keeping Amazon milk frogs as pets is establishing a suitable habitat. This includes maintaining high humidity levels and incorporating lush foliage for them to explore and climb on. These arboreal frogs will appreciate sturdy branches or vines placed at various angles throughout their enclosure, promoting movement and exercise.
When it comes to feeding your Amazon milk frog, they have fairly simple dietary requirements consisting primarily of insects such as crickets, mealworms, waxworms, and fruit flies.
With proper care and attention to their specific needs, you can expect your Amazon milk frog to thrive in captivity and live up to 10 years old.
- Size: 2.5-4 inches
- Lifespan: 8 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 20 gallons
15. Red-Eyed Tree Frog
There’s no denying that red-eyed tree frogs are among the most captivating and visually striking amphibians around. So it’s not a surprise that many people want to own them as pets!
One of the reasons why red-eyed tree frogs make great pets is their compatibility with cohabitation. Central American red-eyed tree frogs can be housed together in a tank, creating an appealing miniature ecosystem that will surely grab the attention of anyone who visits your home.
Although these pet frogs have specific care requirements, attentive beginners can certainly provide proper care for them by ensuring they have a suitable habitat with plenty of tree branches and leaves for climbing.
As long as you’re willing to invest time in learning about and meeting their needs, red-eyed tree frogs can thrive under your care. They may require slightly more effort than some other species on our list, but the payoff is worth it when you see these stunning creatures whenever you want!
- Size: 2.5-3 inches
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 10 gallons
16. Asian Painted Frog
This is another great pet frog for anyone who wants a cute and chunky little critter. Not only does their distinct chubby body make them entertaining to observe, but they’re also quite low-maintenance.
You can keep them in a modestly-sized tank without any issues as well. That’s why we often recommend them to individuals who want a pet frog but live in an apartment or small home.
They can also thrive in a variety of conditions as long as you take care of their basic needs, making them a good choice for beginners.
- Size: 2-3 inches
- Lifespan: 10 years
- Minimum Enclosure Size: 15 gallons
Closing Thoughts
Now that you know which types of frogs make the best pets, it’s time for you to think about which ones appeal to you the most. There are likely a few species that caught your eye initially, so all you need to do is narrow down that list.
If you have any questions or thoughts about the species we’ve mentioned above, don’t hesitate to get in touch! We’re always happy to lend a hand and provide feedback to our readers.
