With their gentle nature, expressive personalities, and surprisingly social behavior, these Australian natives have revolutionized how we think about reptilian pets.
A full-grown bearded dragon needs a minimum 40-gallon terrarium. Your setup should include:
Unlike many reptiles, bearded dragons are omnivores. Their diet shifts dramatically as they age:
| Age | Insects | Vegetables |
|---|---|---|
|
Baby (0-3 months) |
80% |
20% |
|
Juvenile (3-12 months) |
60% |
40% |
|
Adult (12+ months) |
20% |
80% |
Weekly weight checks and regular vet visits help catch issues early. A healthy adult beardie weighs between 350-600 grams and should have clear, alert eyes and smooth skin.
Unlike dogs needing multiple daily walks or cats requiring constant attention, bearded dragons adapt well to human schedules. They’re active during the day and typically sleep 8-12 hours at night.
With proper handling, bearded dragons rarely bite and don’t carry salmonella as frequently as other reptiles. They’re great for families with older children and can safely coexist with most pets when supervised.
These lizards recognize their owners and often show distinct personality traits. Some enjoy being handled so much they’ll actually climb to the front of their enclosure when their favorite person enters the room.
During winter months, your beardie might become less active and eat less. This natural cooling period typically lasts 1-3 months. Maintain regular temperatures but don’t force-feed during this time.
Some beardies refuse certain vegetables or suddenly stop eating insects. Try offering different textures and colors of vegetables, and rotate between cricket, dubia roach, and superworm varieties to maintain interest.
Black bearding, glass surfing, or refusing food often indicate stress. Common triggers include:
With proper care, 10-15 years in captivity. Some have been known to live up to 20 years!
No, bearded dragons are solitary and should be housed individually. Multiple dragons may fight and cause serious injury.
Start with 5-10 minutes daily, gradually increasing to 15-30 minutes as your dragon becomes comfortable. Always wash hands before and after handling.
Expect to invest $500-700 initially:
– Terrarium: $150-200
– Lighting/heating: $100-150
– Decor/substrate: $50-100
– Dragon: $50-200
– Initial supplies: $150
Remember, a bearded dragon is a long-term commitment requiring consistent care and attention. Their friendly nature, manageable care requirements, and fascinating behaviors make them exceptional pets for both beginners and experienced reptile enthusiasts alike.
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