Best Pet Frogs for Beginners

If you're thinking about getting a frog as a pet, and have never had one, then choosing one from this list is going to be your best bet. You should always start with a frog that is inexpensive and easy to care for.

There are other frogs that are low maintenance that I have not included on this list such as; Pacman, Tomato and Pyxie frogs, simply because they tend to grow quite large, and they are very inactive. If you get a frog that just sits in it's tank like a bump on a log all the time, you will end up getting bored with it very quickly.

The frogs included on this list have been chosen not just because they are easy to care for and inexpensive to set up, but because they are relatively active. One thing you should keep in mind, frogs are not pets that can be taken out and handled on a regular basis. Frogs are more or less for your viewing pleasure only, kind of like fish.

Fire-Bellied Toads             

The classification of these amphibians have changed many times, from frog to toad and back again. They live like frogs, being semi-aquatic but their skin texture is that of a toad.

The most common fire-bellied toads are the Oriental toads. They have green backs and a bright red underside. There is also the European toad which has a brown back with the red underside. Most pet stores that sell these toads will have the Oriental fire-bellied toads.

These toads make excellent pets for beginners because they are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, unlike most frogs. They also have an appealing whooping call that sounds like a small dog barking.

Fire-bellied toads are social and prefer to live in groups so, it's best to get at least two. Though, they remain small, only reaching approximately 1 1/2 inches in length, you should allow at least three gallons of space per frog. Five gallons per frog is even better. The more space you give them, the active they will be.

These toads should only be handled when absolutely necessary. They have glands in their skin that secrete toxins, though not dangerous to humans, it can cause a rash. It's more for toads safety, that you keep handling to the minimum. Any type of soap residue or even the natural oils from your skin can harm them.

African Dwarf Frog             

The African Dwarf Frog is another small frog, that will only reach lengths between 1 1/2 - 2 1/2 inches. Their color variations range from a light brown to an olive green with dark spotting down their back.

These frogs are mainly an aquatic species, and will spend the majority of their time in the water, but will surface from time to time, as they are air breathing frogs.

African Dwarf Frogs can be kept by themselves or in a community. Since they spend the majority of time in the water, you should allow approximately ten galloons of water per frog.

If you are not keen on keeping live insects in your home, this would make the perfect pet frog for you. These frogs can be fed a variety of frozen and freeze dried foods such as, brine shrimp, bloodworms, dried krill or baby shrimp.  

Whites Tree Frog/Dumpy Frog

The Whites Tree Frog is a larger frog then those mentioned above. It will reach an approximate length of 5 inches. Their coloring is light green, some may have a blueish hue, with a white underside. Some may develop white or yellowish spots on their backs and along their sides.

As the name suggests, these frogs prefer to live in the trees and will require a vertical tank, as opposed to and aquarium. These frogs do very well in a community as well as on their own.  If you plan of keeping more than one, you should allow approximately five gallons of space per frog.

Unlike most frogs, the Whites Tree frog does tolerate some handling. They may even become accustomed to it. Keep in mind, they do have delicate skin, so make sure your hands are clean and free of any soap, lotion or oil residue before handling them. Also, remember to wash your hands after you have handled them as well. 

In conclusion;

Remember to do your research first, to determine which frog will fit into your lifestyle. Ask yourself a few questions. How much time do you have to devote to your pet frog? How much can you afford to pay for the frog and it's upkeep? Are you willing to commit to the frogs needs long term?

Which ever frog you choose, if taken care of properly, will bring you years of enjoyment.