Pet Frogs: Best for 'Look but Don't Touch' Owners

Most pet frogs are calm, quiet and easy to observe. They don't need walks or grooming, and many species thrive on a simple diet of insects. Frogs also require less space than many other pets, making them ideal for small homes.

Tree frogs, aquatic frogs and terrestrial frogs each have unique needs, but all share one thing in common: They do best when their environment mimics nature.

Many species live in warm, humid climates and benefit from live plants, natural substrates (soil), and clean water in their enclosures to stay healthy.

Some frogs—like dart frogs and red-eyed tree frogs—display bold colors that make them fun to watch. Others, like the White's tree frog, are known for their laid-back personalities.

Most pet frogs are captive-bred, which means they are generally healthier and better adapted to life in captivity than wild-caught frogs.

Your frog's enclosure should reflect its natural environment. Some frogs need a half-land, half-water setup, while others prefer all-terrestrial or fully aquatic tanks.

For example, aquatic frogs like African dwarf frogs need filtered water, while terrestrial frogs like Pacman frogs thrive on soil and leaf litter.

Use a terrarium or aquarium with a secure lid. Add substrate like coconut fiber or soil for digging species, and gravel or sand for aquatic setups (make sure gravel is too large to swallow). Live plants improve air quality and provide shelter. Ferns, bromeliads and pothos are solid choices.

Branches and cork bark create climbing opportunities for tree frogs. Use thermometers and hygrometers to monitor temperature and humidity. Keep the enclosure around 72 to 82 F (22 to 28 C), and maintain humidity levels appropriate for your species.

Add shallow water dishes, mist daily, and clean regularly to prevent waste buildup. Insects and small invertebrates that thrive in bioactive substrates can help manage waste and reduce odors. Many species benefit from naturalistic setups that encourage natural behavior.

Frogs are carnivorous and eat live food. Their diet usually includes:

Some frogs will also eat earthworms, waxworms, and roaches. Aquatic frogs also enjoy brine shrimp or bloodworms. Always buy food from a reputable store and avoid feeding wild-caught insects that could carry pesticides or parasites.

Dust insects with calcium and vitamin supplements to support your frog's health. Feed adults every 2 to 3 days. Juveniles need to eat daily. Watch your frog eat to observe natural hunting behavior (most frogs rely on movement to locate prey).

A varied diet is essential to prevent nutritional deficiencies. In captivity, frogs can sometimes become picky eaters, so offering a mix of prey ensures they get the nutrients they need. Be aware that adult frogs may eat smaller tank mates, including other frogs, if not monitored carefully.

Frog skin is sensitive and permeable, which means they absorb chemicals through contact. Avoid frequent handling. If you must move your frog, wash your hands with dechlorinated water or wear gloves.

Symptoms of an ill frog include:

If your frog shows any of these signs, contact a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles and amphibians.

Preventative care includes keeping the enclosure clean, feeding a varied diet and observing behavior changes. Improper humidity or temperature, contaminated water, or an unbalanced diet can all lead to illness.

Check often for signs your frog may be too warm or too cold. Frogs are ectothermic, meaning they rely on the environment to regulate body temperature. Thermal gradients within the enclosure help frogs choose their comfort zone.

Many species are great for beginners and experts alike. Here are some popular pet frogs:

These animals range in color from green and yellow to orange and even blue, depending on the species. Each species has specific needs. Some tend to live longer, tolerate handling or require high humidity. Always research before buying.

You can find many of these species at your local pet store, though some rarer frogs may be available only through breeders.

Frogs are amphibians, not reptiles, but they often share pet store shelves with snakes, lizards and toads.

Don’t confuse their care needs. Amphibians need moisture, clean water and specific temperature and humidity levels to stay healthy.

Never keep frogs with incompatible animals, even if they look similar. For instance, toads and frogs might share a diet but need different humidity levels. Mixing species can cause stress or illness.

Avoid taking wild frogs home. They may carry diseases or be illegal to catch, and they often die in captivity. Always choose captive-bred animals from reputable sellers.

A well-designed vivarium helps frogs feel secure and encourages natural behavior. Use natural materials and avoid synthetic decorations that may leach harmful substances. Your goal is to build a slice of the frog's wild world inside your house.

Frogs can live for years with proper care. Whether you choose a bright green tree frog or a chunky orange tomato frog, you're bringing a bit of the natural world into your home. They're fun to observe, rewarding to care for and a great choice for curious beginners.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.