It, like other members of its genus, Ceratophrys, is commonly called the Pac-man frog, because of its resemblance to the video game character of the same name.

However, due to a row a teeth along the upper jaw,[3] it is unable to release prey from its mouth causing it to potentially die by choking.

[4] At extreme temperatures (both high and low), Cranwell's horned frog enters a period of estivation, developing a thick layer of protective skin to trap moisture and aid in respiration.

[citation needed] It is also a good practice to dust prey items with an appropriate calcium and multi-vitamin supplement to prevent the development of metabolic bone disease.

Because of its large mouth, C. cranwelli is particularly susceptible to impaction especially when young, a condition whereby the frog's gastrointestinal tract is obstructed by a foreign body accidentally swallowed.

Impaction often leads to constipation and malnutrition, and possibly death unless treated promptly with laxatives such as the osmotic diuretic lactulose.