Best Snake Breeds That Stay Small And Don’t Grow

Not everyone wants a big snake, and that is perfectly okay. There are plenty of wonderful snake species that stay small, are easy to care for, and make fantastic pets. If you are looking for a snake that will not outgrow a modest enclosure, here are the best options to consider.

Rosy Boa (2 to 3.5 Feet)

Rosy boas are one of the best small pet snakes available. They top out at about 2 to 3.5 feet and have a gentle, slow moving temperament that makes them ideal for beginners and experienced keepers alike. Their beautiful color variations (ranging from rosy pink to orange to chocolate brown) and their calm nature make them a joy to own.

Rosy boas are also one of the easiest snakes to care for. They come from arid environments, so they need low humidity and simple setups. A 20 gallon tank is plenty for an adult. To learn more, check out our article on rosy boa temperament.

Kenyan Sand Boa (1.5 to 2.5 Feet)

Kenyan sand boas are tiny, chunky snakes with a unique appearance. Females typically reach 2 to 2.5 feet, while males stay even smaller at about 1.5 feet. They are burrowing snakes that spend most of their time hidden in the substrate, popping their heads out to ambush prey. Their quirky behavior and small size make them endlessly entertaining.

Sand boas are available in a variety of morphs and are very easy to care for. They eat small mice, need minimal space (a 10 gallon tank works for adults), and are generally docile when handled.

Western Hognose Snake (1.5 to 3 Feet)

Western hognose snakes have become incredibly popular in recent years, and their small size is a big reason why. Males typically stay around 1.5 to 2 feet, while females can reach 2.5 to 3 feet. They are famous for their upturned snout (which they use to dig in sandy soil) and their dramatic defensive displays, which include playing dead.

Hognose snakes do produce a mild venom in their rear teeth, but it is not considered medically significant to humans. They are classified as mildly venomous but are widely kept as pets without any issues. Their quirky personality and small size make them fantastic pets for snake enthusiasts of all levels.

Ringneck Snake (10 to 15 Inches)

For someone who wants a truly tiny snake, ringneck snakes are about as small as pet snakes get. Adults are only about 10 to 15 inches long and are incredibly slender. They are named for the bright orange or yellow ring around their neck, and their belly is often a matching bright color.

Ringneck snakes are not commonly kept as pets because they can be tricky to feed (they primarily eat worms, slugs, and small salamanders rather than mice), but they are fascinating little animals for keepers who are up for the challenge.

Corn Snake (3 to 5 Feet)

While corn snakes are not as small as some other species on this list, they deserve mention because they are slim bodied and feel much smaller than their length suggests. At 3 to 5 feet, they are very manageable and can be housed in a standard 40 gallon tank. Their gentle temperament, beautiful color morphs, and ease of care make them one of the most popular pet snakes in the world.

Children’s Python (2.5 to 4 Feet)

Despite the name (which comes from the scientist John George Children, not from being a children’s pet), Children’s pythons are excellent small snakes. They reach 2.5 to 4 feet and have a calm, docile temperament. They are one of the smallest python species and offer the python experience in a manageable package.

Choosing the Right Small Snake

When choosing a small snake, consider not just the size but also the temperament, feeding requirements, and care needs. Rosy boas and Kenyan sand boas are the easiest to care for. Western hognose snakes are the most entertaining personality wise. Corn snakes are the best all around beginner snake regardless of size. For a complete overview of snake options, browse our guide to popular pet snake breeds.