For many people, the idea of owning a pet snake might seem intimidating—or even downright terrifying. But not all snakes fit the scary stereotypes. Some are so gentle, docile, and friendly that they completely change people’s perceptions of what it means to have a snake as a companion. These snakes aren’t just fascinating to watch; they’re harmless, easy to care for, and even enjoy human interaction. If you’ve ever been on the fence about snakes, these incredible reptiles might just change your mind forever.

1. Corn Snake

Corn snakes are often regarded as one of the most beginner-friendly snakes, and it’s easy to see why. With their calm demeanor and manageable size, they’re an ideal choice for anyone looking to own a pet snake. Known for their striking color patterns and docile nature, these snakes thrive in captivity with minimal care requirements. They don’t mind being handled regularly and are usually very patient with their owners. Their gentleness and predictable behavior make them an excellent choice for first-time snake keepers, turning many snake skeptics into true enthusiasts.

2. Ball Python

Ball pythons have earned a reputation as one of the most docile snake species, and for good reason. These snakes are generally shy by nature, often curling up into a ball when they feel threatened. This peaceful disposition makes them a favorite among snake lovers. Despite their tendency to be a bit reserved, they adapt well to regular handling, becoming more comfortable with their human companions over time. With their calm temperament, these snakes can easily change any misconceptions about snakes, proving that they can be both harmless and affectionate in their own unique way.

3. Western Hognose Snake

The Western Hognose may look intimidating at first with its upturned snout, but in reality, this snake is one of the most gentle species you can find. These snakes are non-venomous and have a laid-back nature, making them a great option for first-time snake owners. While they may initially be a little defensive—sometimes even playing dead when threatened—they pose no real danger to humans. Their distinctive appearance, coupled with their calm and harmless behavior, makes them a perfect example of how some snakes can be friendly and approachable.

4. Rosy Boa

Rosy boas are small, slow-moving, and gentle, making them a perfect choice for beginners. They’re known for their docile nature and vibrant coloration, which only adds to their appeal. Unlike some other snakes, they’re not prone to striking or showing aggression. Rosy boas are easy to care for and don’t require excessive space, making them a great choice for someone looking to keep a pet snake in a smaller environment. Their calm demeanor and willingness to be handled make them a standout when it comes to snakes that change people’s minds.

5. California Kingsnake

The California kingsnake is a friendly and adaptable snake, known for its ability to adjust to captivity with ease. It’s a non-venomous species with a generally calm temperament, especially if handled regularly. While they can be a bit more active than some other snakes, they’re not prone to aggression and will often show curiosity toward their owners instead. Their manageable size and low maintenance make them great companions for snake lovers of all experience levels. With their gentle nature, California kingsnakes often win over even the most skeptical individuals.

6. Garter Snake

Garter snakes are another breed known for being harmless and easygoing, making them one of the best options for someone new to snake ownership. They’re typically non-aggressive and tolerate regular handling well. While they are more active than some other snakes, they don’t typically exhibit any territorial behavior or aggression. Their small size and calm temperament make them an ideal choice for anyone looking for a low-maintenance, friendly pet snake. Garter snakes are a fantastic introduction to the world of reptiles, offering an ideal balance of gentleness and activity.

7. Milk Snake

Milk snakes are widely loved for their beautiful, vibrant coloration and friendly personalities. While they might look a bit intimidating due to their bold patterns, they are harmless and very gentle, especially when raised in captivity. Milk snakes are non-venomous and, with consistent handling, they grow accustomed to human interaction, becoming friendly and approachable. Their calm nature, paired with their striking appearance, makes them one of the most appealing pet snakes, perfect for people seeking both beauty and companionship in their reptiles.

8. Children’s Python

The Children’s Python is small, calm, and relatively low-maintenance, making it a wonderful choice for snake owners who are new to the reptile world. This species has a gentle temperament and enjoys being handled, although it’s not overly demanding of attention. Children’s pythons are also very patient, which makes them an excellent option for families with young children or for those who want a snake that is unlikely to get stressed easily. Their approachable nature and manageable size allow them to fit comfortably in most homes and hearts.

9. African House Snake

The African house snake is a lesser-known gem in the world of pet snakes, but it’s known for its docile nature and easy care. These snakes are small, non-aggressive, and very tolerant of regular handling. While they are a bit more elusive than some other species, they’re still relatively easy to interact with and enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle. African house snakes are perfect for new snake owners looking for a friendly, undemanding pet that can still provide a captivating and educational experience.

10. Kenyan Sand Boa

Kenyan Sand Boas are burrowers by nature, preferring to spend most of their time underground. Despite this, they’re known for being exceptionally calm and gentle when it comes to handling. These snakes are small and non-venomous, with a relaxed attitude that makes them great for beginners. Their docile behavior, combined with their love of digging, makes them a unique and non-threatening pet option. Kenyan Sand Boas are perfect for anyone looking for a snake that is content with a quiet environment and won’t cause any stress or anxiety for their owners.

11. Spotted Python

Spotted pythons are small, attractive snakes that make wonderful pets due to their calm and friendly nature. These pythons are typically docile and gentle, especially when raised in captivity. They have a relaxed temperament, making them easy to handle for those new to snake ownership. While they may initially be a bit shy, they quickly adapt to their environment and become more comfortable with their owners. Their small size and gentle nature make them an excellent option for first-time snake owners looking for a harmless and affectionate companion.

12. Burmese Python

Burmese pythons may be one of the largest snake species, but despite their size, they’re known for being surprisingly gentle. They are not aggressive by nature and often become quite affectionate toward their owners. With proper care and regular handling, Burmese pythons can grow to be incredibly calm and docile, making them a great choice for experienced snake enthusiasts who can provide the necessary space and care. While they’re not the best choice for everyone due to their size, their gentle nature makes them a remarkable example of how large snakes can be just as harmless and gentle as smaller species.

Love Pets as Much as We Do?

Scroll up and click the ‘Follow’ button to stay updated with the latest heartwarming, hilarious, and helpful pet posts from Pawdown, delivered straight to your Microsoft Start feed and MSN homepage!