Top 5 Smallest Tortoise Breeds: Compact Pet Tortoises That Stay Small

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Thinking about getting a tortoise but want a breed that stays small? You’re not alone—many people prefer compact tortoises that are easier to manage and house.

In this article, we’ll introduce the smallest tortoise species ranked by adult size, along with key care tips and recommended breeds that are perfect even for beginners.

Many of these small tortoises are beginner-friendly, so we hope you find your ideal pet tortoise here!

Top 5 Smallest Tortoise Breeds

There are many tortoise species, and some of them stay remarkably small even as adults.

Here’s our ranking of the smallest tortoise breeds that don’t grow too large.

1. Dalmatian Hermann’s Tortoise

The Dalmatian Hermann’s tortoise is one of the smallest tortoises in the world.

Even when fully grown, its shell length is only about 15 cm (6 inches), making it extremely compact.

It’s hardy and adapts well to captivity, making it an ideal choice for beginners.

2. Russian Tortoise (Horsfield’s Tortoise)

The Russian tortoise grows to about 20 cm (8 inches) at most.

It’s resistant to dry conditions and temperature changes, which makes it well-suited for indoor environments.

3. Pancake Tortoise

Famous for its flat shell, the pancake tortoise reaches an adult shell length of around 20 cm (8 inches).

This active little tortoise is fun to watch and has a charming personality despite its compact size.

4. Indian Star Tortoise (Male)

Male Indian star tortoises typically grow to about 20 cm (8 inches), which is smaller than the females.

Their star-patterned shells make them one of the most visually appealing tortoises available.

5. Greek Tortoise (Arabian Subspecies)

Among the Greek tortoise group, the Arabian subspecies is known for staying small—only about 20 cm (8 inches) even when mature.

It features striking shell patterns and is popular among collectors and beginners alike.

Care Tips for First-Time Tortoise Owners

Tortoises are relatively easy to care for, but beginners should follow a few important tips to keep their pets healthy and happy.

Let’s go over some basic but essential care points for small tortoise species.

Enclosure Size

Even small tortoises need enough space to move around. A good rule of thumb is to provide an enclosure at least 5 times their shell length.

Also, create both warm and cool zones inside the enclosure so your tortoise can regulate its body temperature naturally.

Temperature and Humidity

As cold-blooded animals, tortoises rely on external temperatures. You’ll need to manage both temperature and humidity carefully.

Ideal temperatures range from 28–32°C (82–90°F), and humidity should be maintained around 40–50%. In winter, make sure to use heating equipment.

UVB Lighting

Tortoises need UVB exposure to produce vitamin D3, which helps in calcium absorption and maintaining strong bones.

For indoor enclosures, a UVB light is essential and should be placed over the basking area.

How Much Do Small Tortoises Cost?

The cost of small tortoises varies depending on the species and how they’re sourced (captive-bred vs. wild-caught).

Here are average price ranges for popular small breeds:

• Dalmatian Hermann’s Tortoise: ¥30,000–¥50,000 (~$200–$350)
• Russian Tortoise: ¥15,000–¥30,000 (~$100–$200)
• Pancake Tortoise: ¥200,000–¥500,000 (~$1,300–$3,400)
• Indian Star Tortoise: ¥200,000–¥800,000 (~$1,300–$5,400)

Prices fluctuate based on availability, size, age, and seller reputation.

Summary: Key Points

• Several tortoise breeds, like the Dalmatian Hermann’s and Russian tortoise, grow only to around 20 cm (8 inches).
• Many small tortoises are suitable for beginners with proper care.
• Prices range from ¥15,000 to ¥800,000 depending on species and seller.
• Dalmatian Hermann’s tortoises are affordable and beginner-friendly.

If you’re looking for a small tortoise to raise, use this guide to find the perfect compact companion!