If going with a hognose go with a Western Hognose - they're recommended for first time hog owners. However, you must make sure it is already feeding on mice. They are known to stop eating mice and only accepting lizards - males more than females. And they are known to just go off feed. Personally, from what I've heard about them (although I do hope to get one eventually), I don't thing a hog would fit the original posters requirement of "without too many problems". I still say corn or Mexican Black Kingsnake.