Yes, bearded dragons are generally considered to be easy to take care of, particularly for beginner reptile owners. While bearded dragons are generally low-maintenance pets, they require specific care and attention to thrive. For example, they need a spacious enclosure with appropriate lighting and heating, a balanced diet of insects and vegetables, and regular veterinary check-ups.
Despite these requirements, many people find that bearded dragons are still relatively easy to care for compared to other reptiles. However, with research and preparation, anyone can provide a happy and healthy home for their bearded dragon.
Basic Care
Bearded dragons are known for being relatively easy to care for but still require proper care to ensure their health and happiness. Basic care includes housing, lighting and heating, feeding, and hydration. Here are some tips to help you provide the best care for your bearded dragon:
Housing
Bearded dragons need a spacious and secure enclosure to live in. The size of the enclosure depends on the size of your bearded dragon. A general rule of thumb is to provide at least a 40-gallon tank for a juvenile bearded dragon and a 75-gallon tank for an adult bearded dragon. The enclosure should have a secure lid to prevent escape and protect your bearded dragon from other pets in the house.
It is important to provide a substrate that is safe for your bearded dragon to walk on and easy to clean. Reptile carpets, paper towels, and ceramic tiles are all good options. Avoid using sand or loose substrates, which can cause impaction if ingested.
Lighting and Heating
Bearded dragons are diurnal reptiles, according to Seattle.gov. They need access to UVB lighting to help them metabolize calcium and stay healthy. A UVB bulb should be provided for 10-12 hours a day. The basking area should also have a heat lamp to provide a temperature gradient in the enclosure. The basking area should be around 100-110°F, and the cool side of the enclosure should be around 75-85°F.
Feeding
Bearded dragons are omnivores and need a varied diet of insects and vegetables. Juvenile dragons require more insects than vegetables, while adult dragons need more vegetables than insects. Offer insects such as crickets, dubia roaches, and mealworms as a treat a few times a week. Vegetables such as collard greens, kale, and butternut squash should be offered daily.
Dusting insects with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements ensures your bearded dragon gets the proper nutrition.
Hydration
Bearded dragons need access to fresh water at all times. A shallow dish of water should be provided in the enclosure. Bearded dragons also enjoy soaking in water, which can help with shedding and hydration. A shallow dish of water big enough for your bearded dragon to soak in should be provided a few times a week.
Health Concerns
Bearded dragons are generally hardy pets but can still experience health issues. Here are some common health concerns, preventative measures, and veterinary care tips to keep your bearded dragon healthy.
Common Health Issues
One of the most common health issues that bearded dragons face is impaction. This occurs when they ingest substrate, such as sand or gravel, which can cause a blockage in their digestive system. To prevent impaction, use a substrate that is easy to pass, such as reptile carpet or paper towels, and avoid feeding your bearded dragon in its enclosure.
Another common issue is metabolic bone disease, which can occur if your bearded dragon does not receive enough calcium and vitamin D3. Symptoms include lethargy, tremors, and difficulty walking. To prevent this, provide your bearded dragon with a calcium supplement and a UVB light source.
Preventative Measures
Regular cleaning of the enclosure is essential to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and parasites. Spot clean daily, and deep clean and disinfect the enclosure and accessories every 4-6 weeks.
Proper nutrition is also important for preventing health issues. Bearded dragons require a diet of 80% insects and 20% vegetables. Offer a variety of insects, such as crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches, and a variety of vegetables, such as collard greens, mustard greens, and squash.
Veterinary Care
If you notice any signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or abnormal behavior, seek veterinary care immediately. A veterinarian who specializes in reptiles can diagnose and treat your bearded dragon.
Regular check-ups are also important for maintaining your bearded dragon’s health. For example, a veterinarian can perform a physical exam, fecal exam, and blood work to ensure your bearded dragon is healthy.
Behavior and Temperament
Bearded dragons are known for their docile temperament, making them popular among first-time reptile owners. They are generally easy to handle and do not require extensive socialization or training.
Socialization
Bearded dragons are not social creatures though they may enjoy interaction with their owners. However, they do not require the same level of socialization as other pets, such as dogs or cats. I’ve bonded with my bearded dragon, and they are less affectionate than dogs. So handling your bearded dragon regularly is important to help it become comfortable with human interaction. This can be done by gently petting and holding your dragon for short periods each day.
Handling
Bearded dragons are generally easy to handle, but it is important to do so correctly to avoid causing stress or injury to your pet. When picking up your bearded dragon, support its entire body to prevent it from feeling insecure or unbalanced. It is also important to avoid grabbing your dragon by the tail, as this can cause it to become agitated and potentially drop its tail.
Training
Bearded dragons do not require extensive training but can be taught to recognize their owners and respond to their presence. This can be done by offering your dragon treats or feeding it from your hand. Over time, your dragon will begin to associate you with positive experiences and may become more responsive to your presence.
Overall, bearded dragons are relatively easy to care for and make great pets for those interested in reptiles. Proper handling and socialization can make your bearded dragon a beloved companion for years.
