Are Bearded Dragons Good Pets for 9 Year Olds? A Comprehensive Guide

Are Bearded Dragons Good Pets For 9 Year Olds? Absolutely, with the right preparation and guidance, these gentle reptiles can be wonderful companions. PETS.EDU.VN provides expert advice and resources to ensure a positive experience for both child and dragon. Discover the joys and responsibilities of owning a “beardie” and learn how to create a safe and enriching environment.

1. Understanding the Appeal of Bearded Dragons for Children

Bearded dragons, often called “beardies,” have become increasingly popular pets, and it’s easy to see why. Their docile nature, relatively simple care requirements (compared to other reptiles), and unique appearance make them fascinating companions, especially for children. But are they the right pet for a 9-year-old? Let’s explore what makes them so appealing:

Docile Temperament: Bearded dragons are known for their calm and friendly personalities. They are generally tolerant of handling and rarely bite, making them safe for children to interact with under supervision.
Unique Appearance: With their spiky “beards” and expressive eyes, bearded dragons are visually captivating. Children are often drawn to their prehistoric look and enjoy observing their behaviors.
Relatively Simple Care: While they require specific environmental conditions, bearded dragons are not as demanding as some other reptiles or traditional pets like dogs or cats. This can make them a good entry-level reptile for families.
Educational Opportunity: Owning a bearded dragon can teach children about responsibility, animal care, and the importance of respecting living creatures. They can learn about reptile biology, habitat requirements, and proper feeding techniques.
Quiet Companions: Unlike some pets that require constant attention or can be noisy, bearded dragons are relatively quiet and independent. This can be a bonus for families living in apartments or with busy lifestyles.

However, it’s crucial to remember that “relatively simple” doesn’t mean “no effort.” Bearded dragons still require a significant commitment of time, resources, and parental involvement, especially when the primary caregiver is a 9-year-old.

2. Key Considerations Before Getting a Bearded Dragon

Before bringing a bearded dragon home for your 9-year-old, it’s essential to carefully consider the following factors. These factors will help you determine if a bearded dragon is truly the right pet for your family and ensure the well-being of the animal:

Parental Involvement is Crucial: A 9-year-old cannot be solely responsible for the care of a bearded dragon. Parents must be actively involved in all aspects of the animal’s well-being, from feeding and cleaning to monitoring its health and providing veterinary care. This includes:
- Supervising Handling: Ensuring the child handles the dragon gently and safely.
- Overseeing Feeding: Making sure the dragon receives the correct diet and supplements.
- Maintaining the Habitat: Regularly cleaning the enclosure and ensuring proper temperature and lighting.
- Scheduling Vet Visits: Finding an experienced reptile veterinarian and taking the dragon for checkups.
Commitment Level: Bearded dragons can live for 8-12 years, so acquiring one is a long-term commitment. Are you prepared to provide care for this animal for its entire lifespan, even as your child grows older and their interests change?
Financial Implications: Setting up a proper habitat for a bearded dragon can be expensive, and there are ongoing costs for food, lighting, supplements, and veterinary care. Can you comfortably afford these expenses?
- Initial Setup Costs: Expect to spend several hundred dollars on the enclosure, lighting, heating, and other essential equipment.
- Ongoing Expenses: Budget for regular purchases of live insects, fresh vegetables, calcium and vitamin supplements, and replacement UVB bulbs.
- Veterinary Care: Reptile vet visits can be more expensive than those for cats or dogs, so be prepared for potential medical costs.
Space Requirements: Adult bearded dragons need a large enclosure (minimum 40-gallon breeder tank, ideally larger). Do you have enough space in your home to accommodate a suitable habitat?
Knowledge and Research: Have you thoroughly researched the specific care requirements of bearded dragons? Do you understand their dietary needs, temperature and humidity requirements, and common health problems? PETS.EDU.VN is an excellent resource for accurate and up-to-date information.
Allergies and Health Concerns: Are there any family members with allergies to reptiles or insects? Are there any health conditions that could be exacerbated by owning a reptile?
- Salmonella Risk: Reptiles can carry Salmonella bacteria, which can cause illness in humans. It’s essential to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands thoroughly after handling the dragon or its enclosure.
- Compromised Immune Systems: Individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g., young children, the elderly, people with HIV/AIDS) are at higher risk of contracting Salmonella infections.

3. Setting Up the Perfect Bearded Dragon Habitat

Creating the right environment is crucial for the health and well-being of your bearded dragon. Here’s a breakdown of the essential components:

Enclosure:
- Size: A baby bearded dragon can start in a 20-gallon long tank, but they will quickly outgrow it. An adult needs a minimum of a 40-gallon breeder tank (36″ x 18″ x 16″), but larger is always better. A 75-gallon or 120-gallon tank is ideal.
- Material: Glass tanks are common and easy to clean. Enclosures made of PVC or wood are also available and can offer better insulation.
- Security: The enclosure must have a secure lid to prevent escapes.
Lighting:
- UVB Lighting: This is essential for vitamin D3 synthesis, which is necessary for calcium absorption and bone health. Without proper UVB lighting, bearded dragons can develop metabolic bone disease (MBD), a debilitating and potentially fatal condition.
  - Type: Use a UVB tube light that spans at least half the length of the enclosure.
  - Strength: A T5 UVB bulb with a UVB output of 10-12% is recommended.
  - Replacement: UVB bulbs lose their effectiveness over time and must be replaced every 6-12 months, even if they still appear to be working. Use a UVB meter to measure the output and ensure it’s within the optimal range.
- Basking Light: This provides a warm area for the dragon to bask and regulate its body temperature.
  - Type: Use a heat bulb or ceramic heat emitter (CHE).
  - Wattage: The wattage will depend on the size of the enclosure and the ambient temperature of the room. Aim for a basking spot temperature of 100-110°F (38-43°C) for babies and 95-105°F (35-41°C) for adults.
  - Placement: Position the basking light on one side of the enclosure to create a temperature gradient.
Heating:
- Temperature Gradient: Bearded dragons need a temperature gradient within their enclosure to thermoregulate (regulate their body temperature).
- Basking Spot: As mentioned above, the basking spot should be 100-110°F (38-43°C) for babies and 95-105°F (35-41°C) for adults.
- Cool Side: The cool side of the enclosure should be around 75-85°F (24-29°C).
- Nighttime Temperature: At night, the temperature can drop to 65-75°F (18-24°C). If it gets colder than that, use a ceramic heat emitter (CHE) to provide supplemental heat.
- Monitoring: Use digital thermometers with probes to monitor the temperatures in different areas of the enclosure.
Substrate:
- Safe Options:
  - Paper Towels: These are easy to clean and are a good option for baby bearded dragons.
  - Reptile Carpet: This is a soft, non-abrasive material that is easy to clean. However, it can harbor bacteria if not cleaned regularly.
  - Slate Tile: This is a natural and attractive option that is easy to clean and helps to file down the dragon’s nails.
- Avoid:
  - Sand: Sand can cause impaction if ingested, especially in young bearded dragons.
  - Wood Shavings: These can be toxic if ingested and can also harbor bacteria.
  - Crushed Walnut Shells: These can be sharp and can cause impaction.
Décor:
- Basking Platform: Provide a sturdy platform under the basking light where the dragon can bask.
- Hides: Provide at least two hides, one on the warm side and one on the cool side, where the dragon can retreat to feel secure.
- Climbing Branches: Bearded dragons enjoy climbing, so provide branches or rocks for them to explore.
- Food and Water Bowls: Use shallow, sturdy bowls that are easy to clean.

4. The Bearded Dragon Diet: What to Feed Your Scaly Friend

A proper diet is essential for the health and well-being of your bearded dragon. Their dietary needs change as they grow, so it’s important to understand the correct balance of insects, vegetables, and fruits.

Baby and Juvenile Bearded Dragons (0-12 months):
- Insects: 80% of their diet should consist of live insects, such as:
  - Dubia Roaches: An excellent source of protein and nutrients.
  - Crickets: A readily available and affordable option. Gut-load them with nutritious foods before feeding them to your dragon.
  - Black Soldier Fly Larvae: Another nutritious and easily digestible option.
  - Mealworms: Can be offered as an occasional treat, but they are high in fat and can cause impaction if fed in excess.
- Vegetables: 20% of their diet should consist of finely chopped vegetables, such as:
  - Collard Greens: A nutritious and readily available option.
  - Mustard Greens: Another good source of vitamins and minerals.
  - Turnip Greens: Similar to collard and mustard greens in nutritional value.
  - Butternut Squash: A good source of vitamins and fiber.
  - Acorn Squash: Similar to butternut squash in nutritional value.
- Fruits: Offer small amounts of fruit as an occasional treat (no more than 5% of their diet). Good options include:
  - Blueberries: A good source of antioxidants.
  - Strawberries: Another good source of antioxidants.
  - Raspberries: Similar to blueberries and strawberries in nutritional value.
  - Diced Mango: A sweet and nutritious treat.
- Frequency: Feed babies and juveniles 2-3 times per day, offering as much as they can eat in a 10-15 minute period.
- Supplements: Dust insects with a calcium supplement with D3 daily and a multivitamin supplement 2-3 times per week.
Adult Bearded Dragons (12+ months):
- Vegetables: 60-70% of their diet should consist of vegetables.
- Insects: 30-40% of their diet should consist of insects.
- Fruits: Offer small amounts of fruit as an occasional treat (no more than 5% of their diet).
- Frequency: Feed adults once per day or every other day, offering a smaller portion than you would offer a baby or juvenile.
- Supplements: Dust insects with a calcium supplement with D3 2-3 times per week and a multivitamin supplement once per week.
Important Considerations:
- Gut-Loading: Gut-load insects by feeding them nutritious foods like leafy greens, vegetables, and commercial gut-loading diets for 24-48 hours before feeding them to your dragon.
- Size of Insects: Offer insects that are no larger than the space between your dragon’s eyes to prevent impaction.
- Variety: Offer a variety of insects and vegetables to ensure your dragon is getting a balanced diet.
- Fresh Water: Provide a shallow dish of fresh water at all times. Mist your dragon with water daily to help them stay hydrated.
- Toxic Foods: Avoid feeding your dragon avocado, onions, rhubarb, and spinach, as these foods can be toxic.

Here is a sample table of safe and unsafe foods:

Food Type	Safe	Unsafe
Vegetables	Collard greens, mustard greens, turnip greens, butternut squash, acorn squash, green beans	Avocado, onions, rhubarb, spinach
Insects	Dubia roaches, crickets, black soldier fly larvae, mealworms (in moderation)	Wild-caught insects (may contain pesticides)
Fruits	Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, diced mango	Citrus fruits (in large quantities)
Other	Fresh water	Dog food, cat food, processed foods

5. Health and Hygiene: Keeping Your Bearded Dragon Happy and Healthy

Maintaining a clean environment and monitoring your bearded dragon for signs of illness are crucial for their health and longevity.

Cleaning the Enclosure:
- Daily: Remove uneaten food and feces daily.
- Weekly: Clean the entire enclosure with a reptile-safe disinfectant or a solution of diluted bleach (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely before returning the dragon to the enclosure.
- Substrate: Change the substrate regularly, depending on the type of substrate you are using. Paper towels should be changed daily, while reptile carpet should be laundered weekly.
Recognizing Signs of Illness:
- Lethargy: A decrease in activity level can be a sign of illness.
- Loss of Appetite: Refusal to eat can indicate a health problem.
- Weight Loss: A noticeable decrease in weight can be a sign of illness or malnutrition.
- Abnormal Stool: Diarrhea or constipation can indicate a digestive issue.
- Difficulty Shedding: Problems shedding can be a sign of dehydration or poor nutrition.
- Swollen Joints: This can be a sign of gout or infection.
- Mouth Rot: Redness, swelling, or pus in the mouth can indicate mouth rot (infectious stomatitis).
- Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): Symptoms include tremors, muscle weakness, and bone deformities.
- Respiratory Infection: Symptoms include wheezing, sneezing, and discharge from the nose or mouth.
Common Health Problems:
- Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): As mentioned earlier, this is a common and serious condition caused by a lack of calcium and vitamin D3.
- Impaction: This occurs when the dragon ingests indigestible materials, such as sand or large pieces of insects, which can block the digestive tract.
- Parasites: Bearded dragons can be infected with internal or external parasites, which can cause a variety of health problems.
- Respiratory Infections: These can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, and can be exacerbated by poor husbandry.
- Mouth Rot (Infectious Stomatitis): This is a bacterial infection of the mouth that can be caused by poor hygiene or injury.
Finding a Reptile Veterinarian:
- It’s essential to find a veterinarian who is experienced in treating reptiles. Not all veterinarians are knowledgeable about reptile care, so it’s important to do your research.
- Ask your local herpetological society or reptile rescue organization for recommendations.
- Schedule regular checkups with your reptile veterinarian to ensure your dragon is healthy.
Hygiene Practices for Children:
- Handwashing: Teach your child to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling the bearded dragon or its enclosure.
- Supervision: Always supervise young children when they are handling the bearded dragon.
- No Kissing: Do not allow your child to kiss the bearded dragon, as this can spread bacteria.
- Separate Enclosure: Keep the bearded dragon’s enclosure away from food preparation areas.

6. Safe Handling and Interaction: Building a Bond with Your Dragon

Bearded dragons are generally docile and tolerant of handling, but it’s important to handle them gently and respectfully.

Approaching the Dragon:
- Slowly: Approach the dragon slowly and avoid sudden movements.
- From the Side: Approach the dragon from the side, rather than from above, as this can be perceived as a threat.
- Speak Softly: Speak to the dragon in a calm and soothing voice.
Picking Up the Dragon:
- Support the Body: Gently scoop up the dragon with one hand supporting its chest and the other supporting its hind legs.
- Avoid the Tail: Do not grab the dragon by its tail, as this can injure it.
- Secure Grip: Hold the dragon securely but not too tightly.
Handling the Dragon:
- Short Sessions: Keep handling sessions short, especially when the dragon is new to your home.
- Gentle Strokes: Gently stroke the dragon’s back or head.
- Avoid Stress: If the dragon seems stressed or uncomfortable, return it to its enclosure.
Activities with Your Dragon:
- Supervised Exploration: Allow the dragon to explore a safe and supervised area outside of its enclosure.
- Bonding Time: Simply spending time near the enclosure and talking to the dragon can help build a bond.
- Training: Some bearded dragons can be trained to perform simple tasks, such as coming when called or target training.

7. The Role of PETS.EDU.VN in Your Bearded Dragon Journey

PETS.EDU.VN is dedicated to providing accurate, up-to-date, and reliable information on all aspects of pet care, including bearded dragons. We understand the joys and challenges of pet ownership, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Comprehensive Care Guides: Our website features detailed care guides on a wide range of topics, including habitat setup, diet, health, and behavior.
Expert Advice: Our team of experienced veterinarians, reptile specialists, and pet care professionals are available to answer your questions and provide personalized advice.
Community Forum: Connect with other bearded dragon owners in our online forum to share tips, ask questions, and get support.
Product Reviews: We provide unbiased reviews of the latest products and equipment for bearded dragons, helping you make informed decisions about what to buy.
Local Resources: Find reptile veterinarians, breeders, and rescue organizations in your area.

8. Alternatives to Bearded Dragons for 9-Year-Olds

If, after careful consideration, you decide that a bearded dragon is not the right pet for your 9-year-old, there are other reptile options that may be a better fit. These options generally require less specialized care or are more forgiving of beginner mistakes:

Leopard Geckos: These small lizards are relatively easy to care for and have a docile temperament. They don’t require UVB lighting (though it is beneficial) and can be fed a diet of crickets and mealworms.
Crested Geckos: These arboreal geckos are also relatively easy to care for and have a docile temperament. They can be fed a commercially available crested gecko diet and require a humid environment.
Corn Snakes: These non-venomous snakes are relatively docile and easy to care for. They can be fed frozen-thawed mice and don’t require UVB lighting.

Before acquiring any pet, it’s essential to do thorough research and ensure that you can provide the necessary care.

9. Myth Busting: Common Misconceptions About Bearded Dragons

There are many misconceptions about bearded dragons, which can lead to improper care and health problems. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths:

Myth: Bearded dragons are low-maintenance pets.
- Reality: While they are not as demanding as some other pets, bearded dragons require specific environmental conditions, a specialized diet, and regular veterinary care.
Myth: Bearded dragons can live in small enclosures.
- Reality: Adult bearded dragons need a large enclosure (minimum 40-gallon breeder tank, ideally larger) to thrive.
Myth: Bearded dragons only need to eat crickets.
- Reality: Bearded dragons need a varied diet of insects, vegetables, and fruits.
Myth: UVB lighting is not essential for bearded dragons.
- Reality: UVB lighting is essential for vitamin D3 synthesis, which is necessary for calcium absorption and bone health. Without proper UVB lighting, bearded dragons can develop metabolic bone disease (MBD).
Myth: Bearded dragons don’t need veterinary care.
- Reality: Bearded dragons can be susceptible to a variety of health problems and need regular veterinary care from a reptile veterinarian.

10. Making the Decision: Is a Bearded Dragon Right for Your Family?

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get a bearded dragon for your 9-year-old is a personal one. Consider the following questions:

Are you prepared to be actively involved in all aspects of the dragon’s care?
Can you afford the initial setup costs and ongoing expenses?
Do you have enough space for a suitable enclosure?
Have you thoroughly researched the specific care requirements of bearded dragons?
Are there any family members with allergies or health concerns that could be affected by owning a reptile?
Is your child responsible enough to handle the dragon gently and follow instructions?

If you can answer “yes” to all of these questions, then a bearded dragon may be a good fit for your family. However, if you have any doubts, it’s best to wait until your child is older or consider a different type of pet.

Alt text: Happy bearded dragon basking on a rock, highlighting the importance of proper terrarium setup for reptile well-being.

Remember, owning a pet is a big responsibility. By doing your research, providing proper care, and involving your child in a responsible way, you can create a positive and enriching experience for both your family and your new scaly friend.

Ready to learn more and connect with a community of passionate pet owners? Visit PETS.EDU.VN today and discover a wealth of information, expert advice, and helpful resources to support you every step of the way!

For more information, contact us at 789 Paw Lane, Petville, CA 91234, United States. Whatsapp: +1 555-987-6543. Or visit our website: pets.edu.vn

FAQ: Bearded Dragons as Pets for Children

Here are some frequently asked questions about bearded dragons as pets for children:

Are bearded dragons good pets for kids?
- Bearded dragons can be good pets for kids, especially those who are responsible and interested in learning about reptiles. However, parental supervision and involvement are essential.
What is the best age for a child to get a bearded dragon?
- There is no set age, but most experts recommend that children be at least 9 or 10 years old before getting a bearded dragon. Even then, parents must be the primary caregivers.
Are bearded dragons easy to take care of?
- Bearded dragons require specific environmental conditions, a specialized diet, and regular veterinary care. While they are not as demanding as some other pets, they are not low-maintenance.
How big do bearded dragons get?
- Adult bearded dragons can grow to be 18-24 inches long.
How long do bearded dragons live?
- Bearded dragons can live for 8-12 years in captivity.
Do bearded dragons bite?
- Bearded dragons are generally docile and rarely bite. However, they may bite if they feel threatened or stressed.
What do bearded dragons eat?
- Bearded dragons eat a varied diet of insects, vegetables, and fruits.
How much does it cost to care for a bearded dragon?
- The initial setup costs can be several hundred dollars, and ongoing expenses can range from $50-$100 per month.
Do bearded dragons need UVB light?
- Yes, UVB lighting is essential for vitamin D3 synthesis, which is necessary for calcium absorption and bone health.
Where can I find a healthy bearded dragon?
- You can find bearded dragons at reptile breeders, reptile rescues, and some pet stores. Be sure to choose a reputable source and ask questions about the dragon’s health and history.