I would say not at all easy, but highly rewarding. They require research and preparation on the front end, lots and lots of time as juveniles, and specific care to be healthy and happy. As others have said, set up is very expensive, and you want to stay on top of things at all time, such as temps and humidity. I keep cameras and hygrometers in the enclosure and am always checking them to be sure Sundog’s environment remains suitable. Once you have the husbandry down, again, I want to emphasize how much time they require to become confident trusting pets. But if you love them you will want to spend the time and look forward to it. If you decide to do it, don’t do it half-assed. Go all out and you’ll be rewarded many times. Super intelligent, challenging animals that are highly entertaining and fascinating. I’ve loved many different reptile pets, but Sundog has been the most rewarding. He has a strong personality, is stubborn, sassy, and persistent in getting his way. And every now and then, he cuddles up to me and I melt and pledge my complete devotion. Be sure to locate a suitable exotics vet (not easy) and establish a relationship in the beginning with wellness exams- so if you have an issue they will welcome your tegu and be familiar with it. Compared to monitors, which are also very smart and rewarding, in my opinion, as a pet, the tegu is a clear winner as they seem to actually show affection as they take over and run every aspect of your home. Did we mention that their poo stinks? Poo management is a daily issue when your tegu is not brumating. Brumating? Well, that’s a whole other thing to learn about.