African dwarf bullfrog (Pyxicephalus edulis)
Photo: Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE / CC BY-SA 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Amphibian · Terrestrial frog

African dwarf bullfrog care guide

Pyxicephalus edulis

Intermediate

The african dwarf bullfrog is a intermediate-level terrestrial frog from Eastern and southern Africa. Adults reach 8–12 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. A smaller relative of the African bullfrog; still solitary and a deep burrower.

  • Enclosure 60 × 45 × 30 cm
  • Temp 24–28°C
  • Humidity 50–70%

How much does a african dwarf bullfrog cost in Canada?

Animal$80–150Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$420–740Enclosure $150–300 · equipment $110–240 · bioactive supplies ≈ $170
Yearly upkeep$120–250Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$620–1140All prices CAD, estimates

African dwarf bullfrog quick facts

Skill level
Intermediate
Adult size
8–12 cm
Lifespan
15–20 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
Eastern and southern Africa
Minimum enclosure
60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 in, ≈ 21 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
24–28°C
Humidity
50–70%
UVB
Not needed
Diet
Carnivore – roaches, earthworms, crickets
Bioactive style
Terrestrial amphibian

African dwarf bullfrog enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a terrestrial amphibian bioactive build.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix15 cm
  3. Drainage – clay bio balls3 cm

Burrowing amphibians need soft, moist soil they can dig into – keep it damp, never waterlogged, and provide a shallow water dish.

Temperature: 24–28°C. Humidity: 50–70%. UVB: Not needed.

What does a african dwarf bullfrog eat?

Carnivore – roaches, earthworms, crickets. Feed adults every 5–7 days; juveniles every 2–3 days.

Handling, temperament & health

Hands-off; bites.

Health watch: Obesity and impaction.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Check temperature (many salamanders need it cool) and keep the water dish clean.

Weekly

  • Feed; remove uneaten food.
  • Moisten soil if the surface dries; check the drainage layer.

Monthly

  • Top up leaf litter; check crew numbers.

Yearly

  • Refresh the top of the soil.

Recommended for a african dwarf bullfrog bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 45 × 30 cm).

African dwarf bullfrog FAQ

Is the african dwarf bullfrog good for beginners?

The african dwarf bullfrog is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Hands-off; bites.

What size enclosure does a african dwarf bullfrog need?

At least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (about 24 × 18 × 12 inches, roughly 21 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.

How much does a african dwarf bullfrog cost in Canada?

Typically $80–150 CAD to buy, about $420–740 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $120–250 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a african dwarf bullfrog need?

Temperature: 24–28°C. Humidity: 50–70%.

What does a african dwarf bullfrog eat?

Carnivore – roaches, earthworms, crickets. Feed adults every 5–7 days; juveniles every 2–3 days.

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This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.