Bearded dragons (Pogona species) are among the most popular pet reptiles, and for good reason. These friendly, easy-to-care-for lizards have distinct personalities, are relatively hardy, and can be a joy to watch and interact with. However, like any pet, they have specific care needs that must be met to ensure a healthy and happy life. If you’re a beginner considering bringing a bearded dragon into your home, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Is a Bearded Dragon Right for You?
Bearded dragons are an excellent choice for beginners, but they still require time, effort, and financial commitment. From purchasing a proper setup (which can cost anywhere from $200 to $500 initially) to ensuring a balanced diet and regular health checks, keeping a bearded dragon is not entirely low maintenance.
Understanding Bearded Dragons: Species Overview
Bearded dragons are native to the arid, rocky deserts and woodlands of Australia. The most common species kept as pets is the central bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps), known for its calm demeanor and tolerance of handling. These reptiles can live between 10 to 15 years in captivity with proper care, making them a long-term commitment.
Housing: Setting Up the Perfect Habitat
One of the most critical aspects of caring for a bearded dragon is providing a proper habitat. Here’s what you need:
Enclosure Size
Bearded dragons require spacious enclosures to thrive. For an adult dragon, a 40-gallon tank is the minimum size, though larger is always better. For juveniles, you can start with a smaller tank (20 gallons) but be prepared to upgrade as they grow.
- Baby dragons (0-6 months): 20-40 gallon tank
- Juveniles (6-12 months): 40-75 gallon tank
- Adults (1 year+): 75-120 gallon tank
Lighting and Heating
Bearded dragons are ectothermic (cold-blooded), meaning they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. You’ll need to set up a basking area and a cooler zone in their enclosure.
- Basking Spot: Provide a basking spot with temperatures between 95°F-110°F. Use a basking lamp (either mercury vapor bulbs or a combination of heat and UVB bulbs).
- Cooler Zone: The opposite side of the tank should maintain a cooler temperature of around 75°F-85°F.
- UVB Lighting: Bearded dragons require UVB light to synthesize vitamin D3, which is essential for calcium absorption. Without UVB light, they can develop metabolic bone disease. Ensure the UVB light is on for 10-12 hours a day and is replaced every 6 months.
Substrate
Choosing the right substrate (the material that lines the bottom of the enclosure) is important for both hygiene and safety. Avoid loose substrates like sand or gravel, which can cause impaction (blockages in the digestive system) if ingested.
- Safe substrates: Reptile carpet, tile, paper towels, or non-adhesive shelf liner.
- Unsafe substrates: Sand, wood chips, or walnut shells.
Feeding: A Balanced Diet
Bearded dragons are omnivores, meaning they need a mix of both plant and animal matter. Their diet changes as they grow:
Insects (Protein)
Insects like crickets, dubia roaches, and mealworms are a staple for young bearded dragons. As they age, their insect consumption decreases.
- Babies (0-6 months): 70% insects, 30% vegetables
- Juveniles (6-12 months): 50% insects, 50% vegetables
- Adults (1 year+): 20-30% insects, 70-80% vegetables
Make sure to dust insects with a calcium supplement (without D3 if you’re using UVB light, with D3 if not) about 3-5 times a week.
Vegetables (Greens)
Dark, leafy greens should make up the bulk of an adult bearded dragon’s diet. Suitable greens include:
- Collard greens
- Mustard greens
- Dandelion greens
- Endive
- Squash
Avoid high-oxalate greens like spinach and kale, which can inhibit calcium absorption.
Fruits (Occasional Treats)
Offer fruits occasionally as treats. Suitable options include berries, apples (without seeds), and melons. Fruit should only make up about 10% or less of their diet.
Water
While bearded dragons get most of their hydration from their food, water in a shallow dish should still be provided. You can also mist their enclosure or offer water droplets on their snout to encourage drinking.
Handling and Behavior
One of the reasons bearded dragons are so popular is their calm temperament. Most dragons tolerate handling well and can become accustomed to their owners. Here’s how to safely handle your dragon:
- Support their body: Always use both hands to support their body when picking them up. Make sure to support their belly and legs.
- Start slow: For new dragons, start with brief handling sessions and gradually increase the time as they get used to being handled.
- Watch for signs of stress: Bearded dragons will puff out their beard and darken it when they are feeling threatened or stressed. Allow them time to acclimate to you.
Common Health Issues
Though hardy, bearded dragons can suffer from various health problems if their needs are not met. Common issues include:
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)
MBD is caused by a lack of calcium or UVB light and results in weak bones, deformities, and lethargy. Ensure your dragon has a diet rich in calcium and proper UVB exposure.
Respiratory Infections
Cold or humid conditions can lead to respiratory infections. Symptoms include wheezing, excess mucus, or difficulty breathing. Keep the enclosure warm and dry to prevent these issues.
Impaction
This occurs when a bearded dragon ingests indigestible materials (such as sand or too-large insects) that block their digestive tract. Symptoms include lethargy, lack of appetite, and swelling.
Parasites
Internal parasites like pinworms can affect bearded dragons. Regular vet check-ups and maintaining a clean enclosure can help prevent parasitic infections.
Routine Care and Maintenance
Keeping your bearded dragon’s habitat clean and well-maintained is essential for its health:
- Daily: Remove uneaten food and spot clean any waste.
- Weekly: Clean the water dish and disinfect it with reptile-safe cleaner.
- Monthly: Deep clean the enclosure by removing all items and disinfecting them with a reptile-safe disinfectant.
Final Thoughts
Bearded dragons can make fantastic pets for both first-time reptile owners and experienced enthusiasts alike. Bringing home a bearded dragon can be a rewarding experience, provided you are prepared to meet their care needs. By setting up a proper enclosure, feeding them a nutritious diet, and providing routine care, you’ll have a happy, healthy bearded dragon for years to come.