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Pet frogs and how to house them

Aquatic, burrowing, climbing or living in a planted vivarium: each pet frog needs a different home. Here is which is which.

  1. 01African dwarf frogHands-off: best watched · 10 gal tankAfrican dwarf frogs are legal in most of the US. Don't confuse them with African clawed frogs, which California and several other states ban or require permits for.
    Level
    Beginner
    First year
    $199–$396
    Daily
    5–10 min
    Lives
    5–10 yr
  2. 02Pacman frogHands-off: best watched · 24×18×18 in enclosurePacman frogs are generally legal across the US, but local ordinances or state wildlife laws may restrict exotic pet ownership; always check municipal rules.
    Level
    Beginner
    First year
    $490–$909
    Daily
    5–15 min
    Lives
    10–15 yr
  3. 03White's tree frogTolerates brief handling · 18×18×24 in enclosureLegal to keep in most US states. Hawaii does not allow them as pets.
    Level
    Beginner
    First year
    $590–$1,190
    Daily
    10–20 min
    Lives
    12–20 yr
  4. 04Dart frogHands-off: best watched · 25 gal enclosureCaptive-bred dart frogs are legal to keep in most of the US, but Hawaii restricts them and treats unpermitted imports as a serious offense. Always buy captive-bred frogs from a reputable breeder.
    Level
    Intermediate
    First year
    $494–$1,024
    Daily
    5–15 min
    Lives
    8–15 yr

What is the easiest frog for beginners?

African dwarf frog: rated beginner, about 5–10 minutes of care a day, and $199–$396 for the first year.

What is the cheapest frog to keep?

African dwarf frog, at $199–$396 for the first year including the setup. The animal itself is usually the smallest part of the cost.

Which frog lives the longest?

White's tree frog, at 12–20 years. Before you buy a frog, plan for the whole of that.

How this list is built: Every frog we cover, beginner species first, then by daily care time. First year is the essential setup plus a year of food and supplies, at typical US prices; vet care is extra. Every number comes from the animal's own guide and its sources. How we make these guides.