What To Know Before Getting A Bearded Dragon?

Welcome to the world of bearded dragons! These delightful reptiles have become increasingly popular pets due to their easygoing demeanor and relatively low maintenance care requirements.

Before you jump in, however, there are a few things that you need to be aware of before getting a bearded dragon for yourself or your family. In this article, we will cover the basics about these lovable creatures so that you can make an informed decision on whether they are the right pet for you. Read on to find out what you need to know before getting a bearded dragon!

Housing Requirements

Bearded dragons need a large enclosure that is equipped with plenty of perches, branches, and hiding areas. The ideal size for an adult bearded dragon’s habitat is between 60 to 90 gallons. It should also have proper ventilation, as well as UVB lighting and heating lamps.

Temperature & Humidity

Bearded dragons require temperatures ranging from 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and slightly cooler at night (around 70-75 degrees). They also need a basking area which should be around 95-105 degrees. Lastly, humidity levels in their enclosure should remain low (30%-40%).

Dietary Needs

In terms of diet, bearded dragons are omnivores who enjoy eating both plant matter and insects. A balanced diet consists of fresh vegetables like kale or collard greens; fruits such as mangoes or papayas; live foods like crickets or mealworms; as well as occasional supplements containing calcium and vitamins D3/A/E/K1.

Health Care Considerations

When it comes to health care considerations for your bearded dragon pet, regular veterinary visits are essential for maintaining good health.

Additionally, you will want to make sure that your dragon has access to clean water that is changed daily and that its tank is cleaned regularly. Finally, you will want to watch out for any signs of illness such as loss of appetite or changes in behavior so that you can address them promptly with a veterinarian if needed.

Is A Bearded Dragon Good For Beginners?

A bearded dragon is a great option for beginner reptile owners. Bearded dragons make excellent pets due to their docile and friendly nature, making them well-suited for first time pet owners or those looking for an exotic pet with a relatively low maintenance level.

Bearded dragons are also easy to care for compared to some other reptiles as they do not require any special heating or lighting set ups. They can easily be kept in an enclosure that includes UVB lighting and heat lamps, along with plenty of substrate such as sand or soil.

This makes it easier and less expensive to provide the necessary environment for your beardie. Additionally, bearded dragons eat mostly insects so you don’t have to worry about buying live prey like mice or rats that some other lizards require.

Overall, bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptile species among beginners because they have a generally calm demeanor, need minimal setup and upkeep, and come in an array of beautiful color morphs which adds variety when selecting one from a breeder or store.

What Do I Need To Get Before I Get A Bearded Dragon?

Before getting a bearded dragon, it is important to have the necessary items in order to give your new pet the best possible care.

The first item you need to get before getting a bearded dragon is an enclosure. Bearded dragons require an enclosure that is at least 40 gallons and has proper ventilation. The enclosure should be lined with some type of substrate such as sand or recycled newspaper so your bearded dragon can dig and burrow comfortably.

It should also include plenty of hiding spots, branches and other climbing structures for enrichment. Additionally, the enclosure should have a secure lid as bearded dragons are excellent climbers and may escape if given the chance!

In addition to an appropriate enclosure, you will need additional supplies such as lighting fixtures for both day light bulbs as well as night lights (as bearded dragons are nocturnal), thermometers to monitor temperature levels within the tank, water dishes, food dishes, calcium supplements and any other items recommended by your veterinarian or breeder.

You will also want to research what types of food your specific species prefers prior to bringing them home – all beardies are different when it comes to diet! Lastly, make sure you have someone who can provide regular maintenance on the tank including cleaning out old food/waste and making sure everything stays tidy!

What Do You Do When You First Get A Bearded Dragon?

When you first get a bearded dragon, there are a few important steps to take to ensure their health and happiness.

The first step is to make sure your beardie has the right home. Bearded dragons need an enclosure that’s large enough for them to move around in comfortably, with plenty of room for a basking area and hiding spots.

The size of your tank should be at least 40 gallons or more depending on how big your bearded dragon will grow. It’s also important to provide adequate lighting, substrate, and other furniture such as branches and rocks in order for them to feel comfortable in their new environment.

The second step is making sure they have the right diet. Bearded dragons are omnivores so it’s important that their diet consists of both insects and plants. Live insects such as crickets or mealworms can be fed daily but should always be dusted with calcium powder in order for your beardie to stay healthy.

Vegetables like collard greens or carrots should also be offered once or twice per week in small amounts . If you choose to feed pellets as well, these should only account for about 10-20% of their overall diet. Lastly, water must always remain available for drinking purposes; many keepers suggest using a shallow dish or misting the enclosure 2-3 times a day instead of using a drip system which could potentially stress out your pet reptile.

What You Need To Know About Having A Bearded Dragon As A Pet?

Having a bearded dragon as a pet can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only are they easy to look after, but they also make great companions. However, it is important that you understand the basic needs of a bearded dragon before making the decision to bring one into your home.

The first thing you need to know about having a bearded dragon as a pet is that they require special care and attention. They need access to both UVB lighting and heat lamps in order to properly regulate their body temperature and absorb essential vitamins from the sun’s rays.

Bearded dragons also require regular feeding with fresh vegetables, insects, and occasional fruits or flowers for supplemental nutrition. Additionally, providing them with ample space for exercise is essential for their health and wellbeing.

Bearded dragons are social creatures by nature, so it’s important that you provide yours with plenty of interaction throughout the day. Taking time out of your day to spend quality bonding time with your new friend will help them feel safe and secure in their environment while allowing them to learn more about interacting with humans on their own terms.

Regular handling sessions should be done gently and patiently in order to give them enough time to adjust and get comfortable being handled by you or others around them

Do Bearded Dragons Like To Cuddle?

Bearded dragons, also known as Pogona Vitticeps, are an increasingly popular pet for reptile enthusiasts. They can be quite friendly and interactive once they become accustomed to their owners, but the question of whether or not these animals enjoy being cuddled is a tricky one.

The answer hinges on what you consider “cuddling” to mean. For some people, this means holding their bearded dragon in their hands and stroking its back as it sits calmly. In general, most bearded dragons do enjoy being held gently in this manner and will often close their eyes and remain still while being petted.

However, if your idea of cuddling involves squeezing them tightly against your chest in a hug-like fashion then this is probably not something that bearded dragons would appreciate very much! Most reptiles have evolved over time to stay away from potential predators which could squeeze or squish them so tight hugs may make them feel threatened or uncomfortable rather than safe and relaxed.

In summary, although bearded dragons may not necessarily enjoy being hugged like a teddy bear they will usually tolerate gentle handling such as strokes along the back or head scritches with patience and even pleasure – just don’t expect any hugging from your scaly friend!

Conclusion

Bearded dragons make excellent pets! They are easy to care for and can be a great source of companionship. With proper husbandry and veterinary care, they can live long and healthy lives. Before getting a bearded dragon, research what kind of enclosure is best, what type of diet should be provided, and how much time you will need to devote to their care.

Be sure to find a reputable breeder or rescue organization so that your new pet is healthy and happy. By taking the time to properly prepare for welcoming a bearded dragon into your home, you’ll ensure many years of enjoyment with your scaly companion.