Feeding African Dwarf Frogs: What Does an ADF Eat, Anyway?

African dwarf frogs can seem picky eaters and feeding them can be frustrating. Keep in mind, however, that these frogs have poor eyesight and usually only see things that are in front of them and at an angle. Also, ADFs tend to forage for food by smell, rather than sight. When trying to figure out what you can feed your frog, there are several options available that you can consider.

When you buy your African dwarf frog, the pet store may instruct you to feed it freeze-dried food, such as bloodworms or freeze-dried shrimp. However, freeze-dried foods are not necessarily the best type of food for your new pet. Dried food usually floats, making it difficult for frogs to find as they eat exclusively from the bottom of the tank. Also, once food touches water, it will expand, which can cause ADF health problems if a piece is eaten while it is still expanding.

To avoid the problems of freeze-dried foods, one of the best foods to feed your ADF is frozen bloodworms or frozen brine shrimp. These can come in resealable packages that make it easy to use. Frogs usually do very well with these, especially bloodworms, and they really seem to enjoy eating them.

Another option, which may be the best of both worlds for many frog owners, is pellet food. If your pet store has a reptile or frog section, you should be able to find small pellet foods made especially for aquatic frogs or turtles. These pellets are nutritious and soft enough for your frog to eat easily.

Remember, African dwarf frogs, like all animals, do best with variety. Your ADF would probably appreciate having frozen and pelleted foods as options, if possible.