Instructions
Figure out how much space you need to care for the kind of lizard you wish to buy. Lizards not only come in a variety of colors, but they differ in size as well. Some grow to be several feet long while others reach only a few inches in maximum length. Measure the space where you want to house your lizard and be sure that it can accommodate it at full-grown size. Purchase a 10 gallon tank for a pair of leopard geckos, or get a 5-foot-high, 4-foot-square terrarium for a water dragon, for instance.
Establish a budget. Consider the purchase price of the lizard and the price of long-term care of your pet. Generally, common iguanas and geckos cost less than $50 retail. Exotic species of lizard can cost thousands.
Choose a lizard based on how its temperament matches your energy levels and habits. For example, a small gecko is a fun pet to play with and watch, but they don't care much for being held and like to scatter away quickly if you get too close. Alternatively, the dragon species are much larger and tend to be docile around their human owners when being held. Also, you have less risk of them escape on you.
Check your city laws and ordinances. Some localities don't permit residents to keep exotic animals as pets in residential areas. If you rent, check with your landlord to see if he allows exotic breeds before you bring a lizard home.
Be sure you can handle any special requirements regarding the care of a pet lizard. This may include providing a temperature-controlled room with special lighting.
How to Choose a Pet Lizard
Some people prefer to have exotic pets rather than a traditional cat or dog. A lizard makes an excellent pet because of its smaller size, quiet demeanor and inexpensive upkeep. Even busy professionals should have no problem managing to care for this pet. Lizards can live in small homes or apartments and don't require daily feedings. Most pet stores carry a variety of lizard breeds for purchase. You need only to decide which species you'd like to buy.