If you’ve always dreamed of owning something more unusual than a dog or cat, exotic pets can be exciting — but not all are beginner-friendly.
Here’s a list of 7 great exotic pets for first-time owners and 3 to avoid until you gain more experience.
✅ Best Exotic Pets for Beginners
1. Leopard Gecko
These small, gentle lizards are great for beginners. They don’t bite, they’re easy to handle, and they only need a small heated tank.
2. Corn Snake
Beautiful and calm, corn snakes rarely bite and are easy to feed. They’re perfect if you’re new to reptiles.
3. Hedgehog
Cute, quiet, and low-maintenance. They’re shy at first but can become affectionate with patience.
4. Bearded Dragon
Beardies are famous for their chill attitude and funny expressions. They love basking under warm lights and even enjoy gentle cuddles.
5. Parakeet (Budgie)
These tiny parrots are smart, social, and fun to teach words. A great way to enter the bird world.
6. Axolotl
A fascinating aquatic pet that looks like a smiling cartoon. They’re easy to feed and fun to watch — just keep their water clean.
7. Tarantula
Yes, spiders! While not for everyone, tarantulas are surprisingly easy to care for and rarely aggressive
