Not Sold on a Snake? These 8 Reptiles Make Great Pets

The idea of owning a pet snake is super cool. Snakes are truly intriguing, with their sleek movement, quiet presence, and exotic appeal. But however intriguing, questions about care, temperament, and long-term commitment kept me from pulling the trigger. Curiosity about these animals eventually led to deeper research; and that’s when the options began to expand well beyond a single species.

After learning more about different species and their personality differences, it became clear that snakes aren’t the only reptiles well-suited for life as pets. This article covers beginner-friendly species, as well as unique animals with manageable care requirements. These eight reptiles should be on the list for anyone seriously considering a cold-blooded companion.

About Bearded Dragons

Size: Up to 24 inches long

Origin: Australia

Bearded dragons are incredible pets. They are also beginner-friendly, making them the perfect starter reptile. These scaly pets have a lifespan of 6 to 15 years. Although mainly solitary pets, some bearded dragons love being handled and may even sleep on your shoulder or chest. Bearded dragons eat a varied diet of insects and vegetables, though they still require proper nutritional balance.

About Tortoises

Size: Tortoises vary a lot in size but can get as large as 4 feet long.

Origin: Since there are so many tortoise species, they live throughout the world including in Africa, Asia, Eurasia, Europe, and both North and South America.

There are 50-60 species of tortoises depending on classification. These slow-moving reptiles make great pets and are even better than snakes. While they can’t crawl or slither around your arm, they can be quite active. Tortoises, though, are a lifelong commitment. It’s important not to adopt one if you aren’t ready to have them for decades. Most species live 50–100 years, though a few individuals have reached 150.

About Green Anoles

Size: Up to 8 inches

Origin: The southeastern United States

What’s better than a pet snake? A pet lizard. Green anoles are a lot of fun to watch. These small and slim bright green lizards eat small insects and live for around 4 to 7 years. Their lifespans are shorter in the wild (2 to 3). They are best known for the pink dewlaps they flash to communicate. Note that green anoles are best enjoyed as display animals rather than frequent handling pets.

About Leopard Geckos

Size: 7 to 11 inches long

Origin: Part of Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, and northwest India

Leopard geckos are fascinating pets; and they require a long-term commitment. While they don’t live as long as tortoises, leopard geckos can live 15–20 years with proper care. Don’t let their vibrant colors fool you either, these pets are beginner friendly. Interestingly, they are very vocal and yet calm. Leopard geckos are also nocturnal, meaning they are more active at night.

About Chinese Water Dragons

Size: Around 2/3 feet long (males are often larger)

Origin: Southern China and most of Southeast Asia

Another incredible reptile pet to own is the Chinese water dragon. They are sometimes also called green water dragons or Asian water dragons. Chinese water dragons live for about 14 to 16 years, but 20+ years is not uncommon. They make great pets as they are curious and very active. Chinese water dragons love to swim and explore. They are territorial, especially males, so you should only own one, unless multiples are introduced at a young age.

About Iguanas

Size: Up to 7 feet long

Origin: Central America, South America, and the Caribbean

Iguanas are very popular reptile pets. Still, they aren’t the best for beginners and require both a lot of care, time, and commitment. They also need a lot of patience, as iguanas don’t always love being handled. They can also be quite the escape artists. Iguanas live for about 15 to 20 years. Because of their size, they need a lot of space.

About Caiman Lizards

Size: 2 to 4 feet long

Origin: South America

Caiman lizards aren’t the most common household pets. These lizards get as long as 4 feet, meaning they need an enclosure of at least 8 feet long. As they are semi-aquatic, it’s best to provide them with both land and a water source. Their diet and aquatic enclosure needs make them better suited to experienced keepers with appropriate space, time, and money.

About Chameleons

Size: Anywhere from 1 inch to 27 inches

Origin: Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, northern Africa, Sri Lanka, and southern Europe (depends on the species)

Last but not least are chameleons, one of the coolest reptile pets to exist. Depending on the species, chameleons may live anywhere from 3 to 10 years in captivity. These color-changing animals need specialized housing to stay healthy and happy. Chameleons are pickier than you’d think. They eat their meals live. They also drink water through droplets on leaves, meaning their housing will need frequent misting.