Are Tegus Good Pets?

Black and White Tegu in the Sand Looking Outhttps://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Argentine_Black-and-White_Tegu_(Salvator_merianae)_male.jpg

When asking, "are tegus good pets?" it's important to consider their unique characteristics and care requirements. There are three types of tegus commonly kept as pets: the red tegu, which is the largest; the black and white tegu, the most popular; and the gold tegu, which is the smallest. Tegus are known for their intelligence and, unlike many other reptiles, many enjoy being held and interacting with their owners.

However, tegus need an enriched environment to stay happy. A spacious and stimulating cage is essential, as these reptiles thrive when they have space to explore, climb, and dig. With proper care, tegus can make rewarding pets for reptile enthusiasts who are prepared to meet their needs

Are Tegus Good Pets? A Look at Their Gentle Nature and Care Needs

If you're wondering, "are tegus good pets?" the answer is yes, with the right care and respect. While tegus have sharp teeth, claws, and a powerful tail, they are generally not aggressive. As long as they are handled properly and treated with respect, they won't attack. Known for their intelligence and unique personalities, tegus are surprisingly affectionate for reptiles, making them a rewarding and fascinating pet for the right owner. .

Are Tegus Good Pets? Discover Their Affectionate Nature and Unique Bond with Owners

Are Tegus Good Pets? This Tegu Is Being Held by a Young Man With a Big Smile on His Face. There Are Also Two Adults and a Child Nearbyhttps://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:SeaQuest_tegu.jpg

Are tegus good pets? Absolutely! These reptiles tend to be surprisingly social and seem to enjoy the company of people. The black and white tegu, in particular, is known to seek out companionship and, with frequent and careful handling, can become a pet that loves interaction. In fact, many tegu owners even take their pets for walks on a leash! With their curious personalities and love for human connection, tegus can make an incredibly unique and engaging pet for those willing to invest time in building a bond.

Sleep Patterns of Tegus -  They Like the Daytime

Tegus are active during the day, making them an engaging and interactive companion. They spend their daylight hours exploring and soaking up the sun, and at night, they rest, following a natural sleep cycle. This daytime activity makes them an exciting pet to watch and interact with, adding another layer of enjoyment to their already unique personalities.

Size of Two Types of Pet Tegus

The red tegus can be well over 4 feet long. The black and white ones top out at 4 feet long and the gold ones can grow to be about 3 feet long.

Understanding The Temperature and Humidity Needs of Your Pet Tegu

Tegu in the Branch of a Treehttps://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Golden_Tegu_(Tupinambis_teguixin)_(29230540351)

Are tegus good pets? Absolutely, but they require specific care to thrive. The temperature in their enclosure should be kept between 80-90°F during the day, with a nighttime low of no less than 75°F. They also need a basking spot that reaches into the high 90s to regulate their body temperature. Additionally, tegus require high humidity, up to 80%, to keep their skin healthy and to support their natural behaviors. With the right environment, tegus can be incredibly rewarding pets to care for.

Creating a Great Habitat for Your Pet Tegu - Or Let Them Run Free in Your House

They are pretty large and like to move around so you need a big cage for them. They don’t climb much, so the cage doesn’t have to be tall. An enclosure that is 6 feet x 3 feet x 2 feet at a minimum would work. There should be light that simulates day and night and UV lighting.


The tegu needs a lot of stimulation, so you need plants, rocks to climb on, ledges, places to hide, and even balls to play with would be nice.


You should have a thick layer of bedding that they can dig in. Eight inches of substrate would be good. Moss, reptile soil, or some other substrate that keeps things moist would be ideal. They should have a water dish that they can put their whole body in, but it doesn’t have to be very deep.


Some people let their tegu free roam in their house a lot of the time. They just make sure the area the tegu roams in is safe and escape-proof.

Feedng Your Pet Tegu

Tegu Outside in the Grasshttps://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Black_Tegu.%5E_Tupinambis_merianae_-_Flickr_-_gailhampshire.jpg

They eat mostly vegetables and too much protein is bad for them. They do like to eat eggs and insects on occasion. 


Adult tegus should be fed about every other day when they are active. They tend to have quiet times for over four months a year - like hibernation, but it is called brumation. They will bury themselves in their substrate and not move. They should not be fed during this time. If you keep the temperature in their enclosure warm, they may not brumate.

They eat mostly vegetables and too much protein is bad for them. They do like to eat eggs and insects on occasion. 


Adult tegus should be fed about every other day when they are active. They tend to have quiet times for over four months a year - like hibernation, but it is called brumation. They will bury themselves in their substrate and not move. They should not be fed during this time. If you keep the temperature in their enclosure warm, they may not brumate.


Are Tegus Good Pets? Long Lifespan and Health Considerations

Are tegus good pets? Yes, they can make fantastic companions, with a lifespan of up to 15 years when properly cared for. However, like all reptiles, they are susceptible to certain health issues, such as respiratory problems, metabolic bone disease, parasites, and other common reptile diseases. Regular veterinary care, proper diet, and an appropriate living environment are key to ensuring your tegu stays healthy and thrives for years to come.

To find out about other reptile pets and pets of other species, return to the Best Pet For Me List.

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