29 crucial tips for owning a Leopard Tortoise as a pet
Thinking about getting a leopard tortoise? These gentle giants are beautiful, fascinating, and surprisingly long-lived—but they’re not the right fit for every home. I’ve spent time around tortoises through fostering and shelter work, and let me tell you: they’re not a “set it and forget it” type of pet. They need space, sunlight, and a lifelong commitment. Let’s break down what you really need to know if you're considering bringing one home.
What Makes Leopard Tortoises Unique
Leopard tortoises get their name from their beautiful, spotted shells—not any wild behavior. In fact, they’re about as mellow as a pet can get. They’re quiet, peaceful, and non-aggressive. You won’t need to worry about bites or bad attitudes, as long as you treat them gently.
But don’t mistake their calm nature for low-maintenance. These tortoises can live 50 to 100 years (yes, really), and they grow big—up to 18 inches long and 50 pounds. That’s a lot of shell to carry around, and they’re not fans of being picked up. You’ll need to be prepared for the long haul, possibly even arranging care for them after you’re gone.
Space and Setup Are Everything
Leopard tortoises aren’t climbers or burrowers like some tortoise species, but they love to roam. You absolutely need a yard—fenced, sunny, and secure. Think of it as building a little savannah in your backyard. They need:
- Plenty of grazing space with pesticide-free grasses like alfalfa or timothy.
- Direct sunlight for at least 10–12 hours a day, or a strong UVB light if they’re indoors.
- A basking area that can reach 95°F (35°C).
- Shaded spots and hiding places to cool off and feel safe.
If you live somewhere with cold seasons, you’ll need an indoor pen at least 10x10 feet. Add a UVB basking light, and keep it warm—daytime temps around 80–90°F (27–32°C), and never below 65°F (18°C) at night.
Humidity matters too. Aim for 40–60% during the day, and up to 80% at night. Too much moisture can lead to respiratory infections or shell rot, so it’s worth investing in a hygrometer to monitor levels.
Diet: More Than Just Grass
Leopard tortoises are herbivores, and about 50–80% of their diet should come from grazing. But they also need variety. I usually offer mine a daily salad of dandelion greens, collard greens, and the occasional shredded carrot—just enough to match the size of their shell.
Avoid fruits and most pet foods—they’re too sugary or high in protein for tortoises and can cause serious health issues. And don’t forget calcium: a cuttlebone is great for both nutrition and beak health.
Are They Good with Other Pets or Kids?
They’re perfectly safe around kids—as long as the children are old enough to treat them respectfully. As for other pets, cats are usually fine. Dogs are trickier. Even a well-trained dog can accidentally hurt a tortoise, so always supervise their interactions or keep them separated.
Before You Buy, Do These 5 Things
- Check local laws. Leopard tortoises aren’t legal everywhere, and some regions ban imports due to parasite concerns.
- Find a knowledgeable vet. Not every vet handles reptiles, so look for an exotics specialist before you bring your tortoise home.
- Choose a healthy tortoise. Buy from a reputable breeder and make sure the tortoise has clear eyes, smooth skin, and no shell damage.
- Prepare your enclosure. Yard or indoor pen, get everything set up first—basking spots, grasses, water bowls, etc.
- Stock up on food. Have a variety of grasses and greens ready to go so your new pet can settle in comfortably.
Ongoing Care Tips
- Clean water bowls daily with filtered water.
- Track humidity and temperature regularly.
- Supplement with calcium and vitamin D3, especially in winter.
- Keep up with vet checkups—tortoises can hide illness, so prevention is key.
Is a Leopard Tortoise Right for You?
Ask yourself:
- Am I ready to care for a pet that may outlive me?
- Can I provide the right space, sunlight, and diet?
- Do I want a low-key companion who won’t cuddle but will quietly roam and graze?
If you answered yes, you might just have the perfect setup for one of the most fascinating, long-term companions you can bring into your life. Just remember—it’s not a hobby, it’s a lifelong relationship.