Bearded dragons are among the most popular pet reptiles, and it’s easy to see why. These friendly, low-maintenance lizards have big personalities, making them fantastic companions for beginners and experienced reptile keepers alike. If you’re considering bringing one home or want to ensure your current dragon is thriving, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Setting Up the Perfect Bearded Dragon Enclosure
A bearded dragon’s habitat is the foundation of its health and happiness. Get the setup right, and you’ll have a thriving pet. Get it wrong, and you could face serious health issues down the road.
Choosing the Right Tank
The first step is selecting an appropriately sized enclosure. For a baby dragon, a 20-gallon tank can work for a little while, but they grow fast. Adults need at least a 75-gallon enclosure, with 120 gallons or more being ideal for maximum comfort.
A glass front-opening terrarium works best, allowing proper ventilation and easy access for cleaning and handling.
Lighting and Heating
Bearded dragons come from Australia’s arid regions, where they bask under intense sunlight. To replicate their natural conditions, you’ll need:
- UVB lighting: A 10.0 or higher linear UVB bulb (like ReptiSun or Arcadia) is essential for vitamin D3 production, preventing metabolic bone disease.
- Basking lamp: Place a heat bulb on one end of the enclosure to create a basking spot between 95-110°F.
- Cool side temperature: Should stay around 75-85°F, ensuring a proper heat gradient.
Without proper UVB exposure, bearded dragons can develop serious health issues, so replace bulbs every 6-12 months even if they still emit light.
Substrate (Flooring Material)
The debate over the best substrate never ends. Loose substrates like sand and crushed walnut shells can cause impaction (a potentially fatal intestinal blockage). Instead, go for:
- Ceramic tiles (easy to clean)
- Reptile carpet
- Non-adhesive shelf liner
- Paper towels for young dragons (simple and disposable)
Essential Décor
Enriching your dragon’s space makes for a healthier, more active pet. Essentials include:
- A sturdy basking rock or platform under the heat lamp
- Hides on the cool and warm sides for security
- Branches or climbing structures for enrichment
- Food and water dishes (though they don’t drink much water)
A well-structured enclosure mimics their natural environment, keeping them physically and mentally engaged.
Best Diet and Nutrition Choices for Optimal Health
Bearded dragons are omnivores, meaning they require both plant-based foods and animal protein. Their diet should evolve as they grow.
Insects and Protein Sources
For young dragons (under 12 months), 80% protein and 20% veggies is ideal. Adults should flip that balance to 20% protein and 80% veggies.
Great feeder insects include:
- Dubia roaches (nutrient-dense, easier to digest)
- Crickets (widely available, but not as nutrient-rich)
- Black soldier fly larvae (high in calcium)
- Hornworms and silkworms (great for hydration)
Avoid wild-caught insects since they may carry pesticides or parasites.
Important: Always dust insects with calcium powder (with D3) 4-5 times a week and use a multivitamin supplement twice a week.
Safe Vegetables and Fruits
Healthy greens should be the primary component of an adult bearded dragon’s diet. Great choices:
- Mustard greens
- Collard greens
- Dandelion greens
- Squash, bell peppers, and carrots (great for variety)
Fruits should be given occasionally as treats, including:
- Blueberries
- Strawberries
- Mango
- Papaya
Avoid toxic or unsafe foods like avocado, rhubarb, fireflies, onions, and iceberg lettuce.
Handling and Bonding with Your Bearded Dragon
One of the best things about bearded dragons is their docile nature. Most enjoy human interaction once they learn to trust you.
How to Handle Your Bearded Dragon Safely
To build a bond, follow these steps:
- Start slow – Give your dragon time to adjust to its new home before handling.
- Approach from the side or front – Coming from above can trigger their natural predator response.
- Support their body – Always scoop from underneath, supporting the chest and limbs.
- Keep it short at first – Start with handling for just a few minutes, gradually increasing short positive interactions.
Dragons can recognize their owners over time, especially if they associate you with feeding and comfort.
Signs of Stress or Discomfort
Bearded dragons communicate through body language. Watch for:
- Puffing up their beard (often turning black) – Usually a sign of stress, fear, or defense.
- Glass surfing – Can indicate boredom, stress, or an enclosure that’s too small.
- Arm waving – A submissive gesture, often seen when they acknowledge a larger presence.
Respect their boundaries, and you’ll build a trusting relationship.
Common Health Issues and How to Prevent Them
A well-cared-for bearded dragon can live 10-15 years, but neglecting key care factors can lead to serious health concerns.
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)
A devastating illness caused by insufficient calcium or UVB exposure. Symptoms include:
- Soft or deformed bones
- Difficulty moving or twitching limbs
- Lethargy
Prevention: Use a high-quality UVB bulb and calcium supplements, and maintain a proper diet.
Parasites
Common in dragons housed in unsanitary conditions or fed wild insects. Signs include:
- Sudden weight loss
- Runny or smelly stool
- Weakness
If you suspect parasites, a reptile vet should do a fecal test.
Respiratory Infections
Caused by high humidity or cold temperatures. Watch for:
- Wheezing or mucus around the mouth
- Trouble breathing
- Lethargy
Keep humidity under 40% and provide a consistent heat gradient.
Seasonal Care Tips for Bearded Dragons
Brumation (Reptile Hibernation)
Many bearded dragons slow down and enter a hibernation-like state during colder months. They may:
- Eat less
- Sleep more
- Be less active
This is normal, but ensure they stay hydrated and monitor weight loss. If your dragon stops eating drastically outside of brumation season, consult a vet.
Shedding
Young bearded dragons shed often, while adults may shed only a few times a year. Signs of shedding include dull, flaky skin. Increase humidity slightly and provide rough surfaces like branches to help them slough off old skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I feed my bearded dragon?
Young dragons need insects 1-2 times per day, while adults should have protein only a few times a week, with daily fresh greens.
Can bearded dragons live together?
No. Bearded dragons are solitary and may become territorial or even fight when housed together. Always keep them in separate enclosures.
Do bearded dragons need water?
While they get most hydration from food, provide a shallow water dish. Many prefer drinking from misted greens rather than standing water.
How do I know if my bearded dragon is healthy?
A healthy dragon has clear eyes, a strong appetite, smooth skin, and regular bowel movements. Any sudden behavior changes warrant closer attention.
What should I do if my bearded dragon stops eating?
Temperature, illness, or stress can play a role. Check enclosure conditions and consult a vet if the issue persists beyond a few days.
Providing the right care ensures your bearded dragon lives a long, happy life. By maintaining proper diet, lighting, and handling routines, you’ll build a strong bond with your scaly friend. If you have any concerns, a reptile-experienced vet is always your best resource.
Got a bearded dragon of your own? Share your experiences in the comments!