How to Breed Frogs

Understand that you cannot force your frogs to breed. You can, however, create conditions that will make them more likely to breed.

Make sure you have a male and a female frog. It can be difficult to identify the sexes, but some females have a triangle-like protrusion between their rear legs. The best way to be sure you have both sexes is to request this when purchasing your frogs.

Learn about the type of climate your type of frog naturally lives in. You need to replicate spring in that climate to make your frogs think it is time to breed. This may mean you'll need to lower the temperature (so your frogs will hibernate) and then warm the frogs' environment. Or you may have to create a dry period (usually done with dry moss) followed by a "rainy" period, during which you mist the frogs often. The change in climate triggers the impulse to breed.

Talk to the person you purchase your frogs from to determine what type of climate change your frog requires. You can also check with your vet.

Be sure to provide plants for the frogs to hibernate under or climb on (if you have a tree frog).

Understand that the length of the cold or dry spell will vary with the type of frog.

Provide your frogs with fresh water at all times even if you are simulating a dry spell.

Watch for your frogs to mate. The male will climb on top of the female and fertilize her eggs as they are laid.

Separate your frogs from their eggs so they do not attempt to eat them.

Expect your eggs to hatch into tadpoles in 6 to 21 days, depending on your type of frog.