Did you know bearded dragons are among the most popular reptiles? These small dinosaurs are adorable and lovely. Of course, like most reptiles, they have quite strict care requirements. First-timers will go through a learning curve. This essay, written by a local Treasure Coast, FL veterinarian, covers some of the fundamentals of beardie care.

Bearded Dragon Basics

The Bearded Dragon is native to central Australia. They normally live for eight to ten years. Most are naturally sandy-colored, which allows them to blend in with their native surroundings. Some, however, are yellow or orange. When startled, they flare out the skin under their chins, which resembles a beard … hence the name.

Beardies are popular because they are adorable, docile, friendly, and relatively easy to care for compared to other reptiles. Some are even cuddly!

Choosing Your Bearded Dragon’s Terrarium

The size of your pet’s environment will be determined by his or her age. A baby beardie requires at least a 20-gallon terrarium. However, they grow quickly, so you might want to acquire a 40-gallon one. A full-grown dragon will need at least 70 gallons. 

The cage’s dimensions should be longer and wider than its height. There are other substrate options to pick from, including newspaper, butcher paper, and reptile carpet. If you use paper, you will need to change it every day.

We do not advocate using sand substrates, particularly for young dragons. Baby lizards can ingest the particles. That can cause intestinal obstructions, which can be fatal.

Temperature for Bearded Dragon Habitats

Beardies, like many other reptiles, have specific temperature requirements. These guys regulate their internal temperature by going from hot to cool areas and back, so you’ll need to arrange the terrarium in a method that provides distinct temperature zones, or gradients. The warmer end should be around 95-105 degrees Fahrenheit. The cooler end could be about 85. The habitat can be cooler at night.

You’ll need to check these temps several times per day, so get a couple decent thermometers. Choose one with a hygrometer so you can monitor humidity as well.

What Accessories Do I Need for My Bearded Dragon?

You will need to furnish your pet’s habitat. Make sure your pet has a basking perch to hang out on while soaking up some (fake) rays. You can use driftwood, huge rocks, or even grape vines. Just be sure to choose something strong. You don’t want it to tumble over on your pet! Plants are also an excellent choice. Beardies occasionally eat real ones, so avoid adding anything harmful. You’ll also want to include at least one hide.

Don’t forget the dinnerware! Select small bowls for your pet’s dishes. This is especially crucial for baby lizards, as they can drown in deep basins. To prevent spoilage, place the bowls on the cooler end of the terrarium.

Heat and Lighting for Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons require full-spectrum lights to remain healthy. These guys need ultraviolet light, or UVB. If they do not get enough UVB, they will be unable to effectively digest calcium or Vitamin D. This can result in significant health problems. One of the most alarming is metabolic bone disease (MBD), which is debilitating and excruciatingly painful.

Beardies in the wild obtain their UVB from sunshine. Because your pet will be living indoors, you will need to purchase special bulbs.

There are several factors to consider here. Young beardies may require stronger bulbs than adults, so consult your veterinarian periodically. The lights should also be adjusted to a 12-hour cycle.

Proper setup is also necessary. Fluorescent bulbs should be placed at least one foot away from your dragon. Otherwise, your pet may suffer burns.

Finally, replace the bulbs on a regular basis. Because of the way things wear down, they may lose significant power before you notice anything unusual.

What Do I Feed My Bearded Dragon?

These attractive lizards are omnivorous, which means they eat both plants and insects. Though bugs will comprise the majority of your pet’s diet, the amounts and feeding schedules will shift throughout time. Younger dragons require more insects/protein, whereas adults can consume more food and fewer bugs. Ask your veterinarian for advice.

• Insects should be the main course. Crickets, Dubai roaches, butterworms, hornworms, wasps, elder bugs, and mealworms are all options for your dinosaur. Only sell store-bought insects. Wild bugs may be tainted with chemicals and/or transmit parasites or diseases. You should also coat your pet’s bugs with nutritious powder before they become lunch.
• Produce is also on the menu. Give your lizard plenty of green leafy vegetables, like dandelion, mustard greens, collard greens, kale, and endive. Yellow, red, and orange vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, and butternut squash, are also acceptable to beardies.
• Fruits are safe in modest portions and make excellent snacks. You don’t want to go overboard here, however, because they are heavy in sugar. Strawberries, grapes, tomatoes, peaches, figs, dates, and apricots are all terrific choices. Make sure to wash the produce before handing it over!
• Beardies can benefit from supplements, including calcium, vitamin D, and multivitamins. Contact your veterinarian for further information.
• Always conduct research on new foods before feeding them to your lizard to ensure their safety. You will also want to consult your veterinarian for specific advice.
• Did you know that your lizard companion can consume flowers? Dandelions, roses, carnations, and geraniums are all acceptable. Not all flowers are safe, so do your research before giving them to your pet. Also, avoid giving your beardie pesticide-treated flowers.
• Don’t forget fresh water! Beardies are prone to dehydration. Always provide your reptile friend with fresh water. (Your beardie will also benefit from regular soaks, but that’s another topic.) 

Your bearded dragon’s nutritional requirements will vary over time. Consult with your Treasure Coast, FL veterinarian on a frequent basis.

What Are the Symptoms of Sickness in Beardies?

Beardies are often hardy and healthy if properly cared for. However, like any other pet, they are prone to illness and damage.

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Lack Of Appetite
• Respiratory Issues
• Unusual Movements Or Posture
• Incomplete Sheds
• Weight And Composition Changes
• Lethargy
• Sunken Eyes
• Limping
• Stiffness/Weakness
• Tail Kinks
• Hanging Jaws
• Discoloration 
• Lesions

Any of these should result in an immediate call to the vet.

Make An Appointment At Our Treasure Coast, FL Animal Clinic

Do you have any questions about caring for a bearded dragon? Contact our Treasure Coast, FL pet hospital today!