Bearded Dragon Care Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Bearded dragons are one of the best reptile pets for beginners and experienced keepers alike. They're docile, curious, and genuinely enjoy human interaction — making them one of the most rewarding reptiles to own. With proper care, your beardie can live 10–15 years. Here's your complete guide!

🏠 Setting Up the Perfect Enclosure

Juvenile bearded dragons can start in a 40-gallon tank, but adults need at least a 75-gallon enclosure. Key setup requirements:

• Temperature gradient: Basking spot 100–110°F, cool side 80–85°F, nighttime 65–75°F
• UVB lighting: High-output 10.0 UVB bulb — absolutely essential for calcium metabolism
• Substrate: Reptile carpet, ceramic tile, or paper towels for juveniles; loose substrate for adults with caution
• Decor: Hides, hammocks, climbing branches, and flat basking rocks
• Replace UVB bulbs every 6 months even if still producing light

🍽️ Nutrition & Feeding

Bearded dragons are omnivores — their diet changes with age:

• Juveniles (under 6 months): 70% insects, 30% vegetables — feed 3x daily
• Sub-adults (6–12 months): 50% insects, 50% vegetables — feed 2x daily
• Adults (12+ months): 30% insects, 70% vegetables — feed daily or every other day

Best feeder insects: Dubia roaches, crickets, and black soldier fly larvae. Always gut-load before feeding.

Best vegetables: Collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, butternut squash, and bell peppers.

Avoid: Fireflies (toxic!), avocado, onion, and spinach in large amounts.

💊 Supplements

• Dust insects with calcium without D3 at every feeding
• Use calcium with D3 2–3 times per week
• Use a multivitamin once per week

🛁 Grooming & Hygiene

• Bathe in warm water (95–100°F) 2–3 times per week — aids hydration and shedding
• Trim nails every 4–6 weeks
• Clean the enclosure weekly; deep clean monthly

🤝 Handling & Socialization

Bearded dragons are one of the most handleable reptiles. Start with short 10–15 minute sessions and gradually increase. They often enjoy sitting on their owner's shoulder or lap and may even fall asleep during handling — a sign of complete trust!

💊 Health & Wellness

Watch for signs of illness: lethargy, loss of appetite, swollen limbs, runny stools, or labored breathing. Common issues include metabolic bone disease (preventable with proper UVB and calcium), impaction, and parasites. Annual vet check-ups with a reptile-experienced veterinarian are recommended.

Explore our Bearded Dragon Collection for all the premium supplies your beardie needs to live a long, happy life! 🦎