Are Bearded Dragons Safe Pets? A Comprehensive Guide

Are Bearded Dragons Safe Pets? Absolutely! Bearded dragons can make wonderful pets for the right owners. At PETS.EDU.VN, we believe providing the correct environment and care ensures a healthy and happy life for your beardie. This article will explore the safety aspects of keeping bearded dragons as pets, covering everything from their temperament to potential health concerns, giving you the facts you need to make an informed decision. With proper husbandry, diet, and understanding, these gentle reptiles can be rewarding companions, offering years of enjoyment and education on reptile care, responsible pet ownership, and herpetology.

1. Understanding the Temperament and Behavior of Bearded Dragons

Are bearded dragons safe pets when it comes to temperament? Generally, yes, bearded dragons are known for their docile and friendly nature, making them a popular choice among reptile enthusiasts. Unlike some reptiles that may be skittish or aggressive, bearded dragons often tolerate handling and interaction, especially when accustomed to it from a young age. However, understanding their behavior and respecting their boundaries is crucial to ensure a safe and positive experience for both you and your pet.

1.1. Docile Nature and Handling

Bearded dragons are typically calm and tolerant of handling, particularly if they have been socialized from a young age. They often enjoy gentle petting and can be held for extended periods without displaying signs of stress or aggression. This makes them suitable pets for families with older children who understand how to handle them gently. However, it’s essential to always supervise interactions between children and bearded dragons to prevent accidental injury to either party. At PETS.EDU.VN, we emphasize the importance of teaching children how to handle these reptiles safely and respectfully.

1.2. Recognizing Stress Signals

While bearded dragons are generally docile, they can still experience stress or discomfort. It’s essential to be able to recognize the signs of stress in your bearded dragon to avoid causing them unnecessary distress. Common stress signals include:

Darkening of the beard: A black or dark beard is often a sign of stress, fear, or discomfort.
Hissing: Hissing is a defensive behavior and indicates that the dragon feels threatened.
Arm waving: This can be a sign of submission or an attempt to appease a perceived threat.
Glass surfing: Excessive scratching at the glass of the enclosure may indicate stress or boredom.

By understanding these signals, you can adjust your interactions to ensure your bearded dragon feels safe and secure.

1.3. Safe Handling Techniques

To ensure a safe and positive experience when handling your bearded dragon, follow these guidelines:

Approach slowly and gently: Avoid sudden movements that may startle your dragon.
Support the body: Always support the dragon’s body when holding them to prevent them from feeling insecure.
Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling your bearded dragon to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Supervise children: Always supervise interactions between children and bearded dragons to prevent accidental injury.

1.4. Potential Behavioral Issues

While bearded dragons are generally docile, some individuals may exhibit behavioral issues due to stress, poor husbandry, or underlying health problems. Common behavioral issues include:

Aggression: Although rare, some bearded dragons may become aggressive, particularly during breeding season or if they feel threatened.
Biting: Biting is uncommon but can occur if the dragon feels threatened or is mishandled.
Tail nipping: This can occur in juveniles kept together and may be a sign of stress or competition.

Addressing these issues promptly by improving husbandry, providing a more enriching environment, or consulting with a veterinarian can help to resolve behavioral problems.

1.5 The Role of Enrichment

Enrichment plays a vital role in a bearded dragon’s mental and physical wellbeing. A stimulating environment will keep them happy and also greatly reduce the risk of stress-related behaviors. Some enrichment ideas include:

Climbing branches: These allow the dragon to explore and exercise.
Hiding spots: Caves or other hiding places provide a sense of security.
Different textures: Providing varied substrates like rocks, sand, or reptile carpet, can keep the dragon engaged.
Puzzle feeders: These encourage natural foraging behaviors.

By providing a rich and stimulating environment, you can help prevent behavioral issues and ensure your bearded dragon is a happy and well-adjusted pet.

2. Housing and Environmental Safety for Bearded Dragons

Are bearded dragons safe pets when it comes to their housing requirements? Yes, but only if their enclosure is properly set up and maintained. Creating a safe and appropriate habitat is essential for the health and well-being of your bearded dragon. A well-designed enclosure should mimic their natural environment, providing the correct temperature gradient, humidity levels, and UVB lighting. Proper housing not only ensures their physical health but also contributes to their mental well-being, reducing stress and promoting natural behaviors.

2.1. Enclosure Size and Design

The size of the enclosure is one of the first and foremost concerns when it comes to the safety of your beardie. As bearded dragons grow, they require larger enclosures to accommodate their size and activity level. A baby bearded dragon may be comfortable in a 20-gallon tank, but adults require a minimum of 75 gallons. Larger enclosures are always better, as they provide more space for the dragon to move around and explore.

The enclosure should be designed to provide a temperature gradient, with a basking spot at one end and a cooler area at the other. This allows the dragon to regulate its body temperature by moving between the different zones.

2.2. Temperature and Humidity

Maintaining the correct temperature and humidity levels is crucial for the health of your bearded dragon. Bearded dragons are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. The temperature gradient in the enclosure should be as follows:

Basking spot: 95-105°F (35-40°C)
Warm side: 85-90°F (29-32°C)
Cool side: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
Nighttime: 65-75°F (18-24°C)

Humidity levels should be kept low, between 30-40%, to prevent respiratory problems. A hygrometer can be used to monitor humidity levels.

2.3. Lighting Requirements

Bearded dragons require both UVB and UVA lighting to thrive. UVB lighting is essential for vitamin D3 synthesis, which is necessary for calcium absorption. Without adequate UVB lighting, bearded dragons can develop metabolic bone disease (MBD), a serious and potentially fatal condition. UVA lighting promotes natural behaviors and helps to improve appetite and activity levels.

UVB bulbs should be replaced every 6-12 months, even if they are still emitting light, as their UVB output decreases over time.

2.4. Substrate and Cage Furnishings

The substrate you use in your bearded dragon’s enclosure can impact their health and safety. Loose substrates like sand can be ingested and cause impaction, a potentially fatal condition. Safe substrate options include:

Reptile carpet: Easy to clean and non-toxic.
Paper towels: A simple and hygienic option.
Slate tiles: Provide a natural and easy-to-clean surface.

Cage furnishings should be sturdy and non-toxic. Avoid small objects that could be ingested and cause impaction. Provide a basking platform, hiding spots, and climbing branches to enrich the environment.

2.5. Potential Hazards in the Enclosure

Several potential hazards can pose a risk to your bearded dragon in their enclosure. These include:

Heat rocks: Can cause burns and should be avoided.
Unsecured decorations: Can fall and injure the dragon.
Toxic plants: Can be ingested and cause illness.
Small objects: Can be ingested and cause impaction.
Insects: Can bite the dragon and cause infections.

Regularly inspect the enclosure for potential hazards and remove them to ensure the safety of your bearded dragon.

2.6. Maintaining a Clean and Sanitary Environment

Regular cleaning is essential to prevent the buildup of bacteria and parasites in the enclosure. Remove feces and uneaten food daily, and disinfect the enclosure regularly. Change the substrate as needed to maintain a clean and sanitary environment. A clean environment will reduce the risk of health problems and contribute to the overall well-being of your bearded dragon.

3. Nutritional Safety: What to Feed Your Bearded Dragon

Are bearded dragons safe pets when it comes to their dietary needs? Yes, as long as you understand and meet their specific nutritional requirements. A balanced and nutritious diet is vital for the health and longevity of your bearded dragon. These omnivorous reptiles require a varied diet consisting of insects, vegetables, and fruits. Understanding the appropriate types and quantities of food to offer at different life stages is essential to prevent nutritional deficiencies and obesity.

3.1. Dietary Needs at Different Life Stages

Bearded dragons have different dietary needs at different life stages. Baby and juvenile bearded dragons require a higher proportion of insects to support their rapid growth, while adults need more vegetables to prevent obesity. A general guideline is:

Babies (0-6 months): 80% insects, 20% vegetables
Juveniles (6-12 months): 60% insects, 40% vegetables
Adults (12+ months): 20% insects, 80% vegetables

Adjust these ratios based on your dragon’s individual needs and consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns.

3.2. Recommended Insects

Insects should make up a significant portion of the diet, especially for young bearded dragons. Nutritious insect options include:

Crickets: A staple insect, readily available and easy to gut-load.
Dubia roaches: A highly nutritious option, easy to breed and gut-load.
Mealworms: Can be offered as an occasional treat, but high in fat.
Superworms: Also high in fat, should be offered sparingly.
Black soldier fly larvae: Highly nutritious and calcium-rich.

Avoid feeding wild-caught insects, as they may contain parasites or pesticides. Always gut-load insects with nutritious vegetables and calcium supplements before feeding them to your bearded dragon.

3.3. Safe Vegetables and Fruits

Vegetables should make up the bulk of an adult bearded dragon’s diet. Safe and nutritious vegetable options include:

Collard greens: A calcium-rich staple vegetable.
Mustard greens: Another nutritious leafy green.
Turnip greens: A good source of vitamins and minerals.
Dandelion greens: A natural and nutritious option.
Butternut squash: A good source of vitamins and fiber.
Acorn squash: Another nutritious squash option.

Fruits can be offered as an occasional treat, but should not make up a large portion of the diet due to their high sugar content. Safe fruit options include:

Blueberries: A good source of antioxidants.
Strawberries: Another nutritious berry option.
Raspberries: A healthy and tasty treat.
Papaya: A good source of vitamins and enzymes.
Mango: Another tropical fruit option.

Avoid feeding citrus fruits, avocado, and rhubarb, as they can be toxic to bearded dragons.

3.4. Foods to Avoid

Certain foods can be harmful or toxic to bearded dragons and should be avoided. These include:

Avocado: Contains persin, which is toxic to reptiles.
Rhubarb: Contains oxalic acid, which can interfere with calcium absorption.
Onions: Can cause anemia in reptiles.
Garlic: Can be toxic to reptiles in large quantities.
Iceberg lettuce: Offers little nutritional value and can cause diarrhea.
Spinach: Can interfere with calcium absorption if fed in large quantities.

Always research a food item before offering it to your bearded dragon to ensure it is safe.

3.5. Supplementation: Calcium and Vitamins

Bearded dragons require calcium and vitamin supplementation to prevent nutritional deficiencies. Calcium is essential for bone health, while vitamins support overall health and immune function. Dust insects with a calcium supplement before feeding them to your dragon. A multivitamin supplement can be offered once or twice a week.

Consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage of supplements for your bearded dragon.

3.6. Hydration

Providing adequate hydration is essential for the health of your bearded dragon. While they primarily get moisture from their food, it’s still important to offer fresh water daily. You can provide water in a shallow dish or mist the enclosure to increase humidity.

4. Common Health Concerns and Prevention

Are bearded dragons safe pets when it comes to their health? Yes, with proactive care and preventative measures. Like all animals, bearded dragons are susceptible to certain health problems. Understanding these common health concerns and taking steps to prevent them is essential for ensuring the health and well-being of your pet. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper husbandry, and a nutritious diet can help to prevent many common health problems.

4.1. Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)

Metabolic bone disease (MBD) is a common and serious condition in bearded dragons caused by a lack of calcium and vitamin D3. Symptoms of MBD include:

Lethargy
Weakness
Tremors
Swollen limbs
Deformed bones

MBD can be prevented by providing adequate UVB lighting, supplementing with calcium and vitamin D3, and feeding a balanced diet.

4.2. Impaction

Impaction occurs when a bearded dragon ingests indigestible materials, such as sand or large pieces of food, which can cause a blockage in the digestive tract. Symptoms of impaction include:

Loss of appetite
Lethargy
Straining to defecate
Swollen abdomen

Impaction can be prevented by avoiding loose substrates like sand, feeding appropriately sized food items, and providing adequate hydration.

4.3. Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections are common in bearded dragons kept in environments with poor ventilation or humidity. Symptoms of respiratory infections include:

Wheezing
Coughing
Nasal discharge
Lethargy

Respiratory infections can be prevented by maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels, providing good ventilation, and keeping the enclosure clean.

4.4. Parasites

Bearded dragons can be infected with various internal and external parasites, such as worms, mites, and coccidia. Symptoms of parasitic infections include:

Weight loss
Diarrhea
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Skin irritation

Parasitic infections can be prevented by maintaining a clean enclosure, avoiding contact with wild reptiles, and having regular fecal exams performed by a veterinarian.

4.5. Mouth Rot (Infectious Stomatitis)

Mouth rot, or infectious stomatitis, is a bacterial infection of the mouth that can occur in bearded dragons with poor immune systems or injuries to the mouth. Symptoms of mouth rot include:

Swollen gums
Redness or bleeding in the mouth
Pus or discharge in the mouth
Loss of appetite

Mouth rot can be prevented by maintaining a clean enclosure, providing a nutritious diet, and avoiding injuries to the mouth.

4.6. Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for the early detection and treatment of health problems in bearded dragons. A veterinarian can perform a physical exam, fecal exam, and other diagnostic tests to assess your dragon’s health. They can also provide advice on proper husbandry and nutrition.

4.7. Creating a Preventative Care Plan

A preventative care plan should include regular veterinary check-ups, proper husbandry practices, a nutritious diet, and parasite prevention. By proactively addressing potential health concerns, you can help to ensure your bearded dragon lives a long and healthy life.

5. Zoonotic Diseases: Protecting Yourself and Your Family

Are bearded dragons safe pets when it comes to zoonotic diseases? While the risk is minimal with proper hygiene, it’s important to be aware. Zoonotic diseases are diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans. While the risk of contracting a zoonotic disease from a bearded dragon is relatively low, it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself and your family.

5.1. Salmonella

Salmonella is the most common zoonotic disease associated with reptiles, including bearded dragons. Salmonella bacteria are commonly found in the digestive tracts of reptiles and can be shed in their feces. Humans can become infected with Salmonella by coming into contact with reptile feces or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms of Salmonella infection include:

Diarrhea
Fever
Abdominal cramps

To prevent Salmonella infection, always wash your hands thoroughly after handling your bearded dragon or cleaning their enclosure. Avoid touching your face or mouth while handling reptiles. Keep reptiles away from food preparation areas.

5.2. Other Potential Zoonotic Diseases

In addition to Salmonella, bearded dragons can potentially carry other zoonotic diseases, such as:

Campylobacteriosis: A bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
Cryptosporidiosis: A parasitic infection that can cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea.
Ringworm: A fungal infection that can cause skin lesions.

These infections are less common than Salmonella but can still pose a risk, especially to individuals with weakened immune systems.

5.3. Protecting Vulnerable Populations

Certain populations are more vulnerable to zoonotic diseases, including:

Children under 5 years old
Pregnant women
Elderly individuals
People with weakened immune systems

These individuals should take extra precautions when handling reptiles and should consult with a doctor if they develop any symptoms of illness.

5.4. Hygiene Practices

Proper hygiene practices are essential for preventing zoonotic diseases. These include:

Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling reptiles or cleaning their enclosure.
Avoiding touching your face or mouth while handling reptiles.
Keeping reptiles away from food preparation areas.
Cleaning and disinfecting the enclosure regularly.
Wearing gloves when cleaning the enclosure.
Supervising children when they are handling reptiles.

5.5. Consulting with a Doctor

If you develop any symptoms of illness after handling a reptile, consult with a doctor. Inform the doctor that you have been in contact with a reptile so they can properly diagnose and treat your condition.

6. Responsible Ownership and Ethical Considerations

Are bearded dragons safe pets in the context of responsible ownership? Absolutely! Ensuring responsible and ethical care is key. Owning a bearded dragon is a long-term commitment that requires dedication, knowledge, and resources. Responsible ownership involves providing proper care, ensuring the animal’s well-being, and respecting its natural behaviors. It also involves being aware of the ethical considerations surrounding the reptile trade and making informed decisions about where you acquire your pet.

6.1. Long-Term Commitment

Bearded dragons can live for 8-12 years or more, so owning one is a long-term commitment. Be prepared to provide proper care for your dragon for the duration of its life. This includes providing a suitable enclosure, nutritious diet, regular veterinary care, and plenty of attention and enrichment.

6.2. Financial Responsibility

Owning a bearded dragon can be expensive. You will need to purchase an enclosure, lighting, heating, substrate, food, supplements, and other supplies. You will also need to budget for regular veterinary check-ups and potential medical expenses. Be sure you are financially prepared to care for a bearded dragon before bringing one home.

6.3. Ethical Sourcing

The reptile trade can have negative impacts on wild populations. Many reptiles are captured from the wild and sold as pets, which can deplete wild populations and disrupt ecosystems. Choose to purchase captive-bred bearded dragons from reputable breeders or rescue organizations. Avoid purchasing wild-caught reptiles or supporting businesses that sell them.

6.4. Understanding Legal Requirements

Some states or localities may have regulations regarding the ownership of certain reptiles, including bearded dragons. Be sure to research the legal requirements in your area before acquiring a bearded dragon. You may need to obtain a permit or license to own a reptile.

6.5. Educating Others

Responsible reptile owners can help to educate others about proper reptile care and conservation. Share your knowledge with friends, family, and community members. Encourage responsible pet ownership and support organizations that are working to protect reptiles and their habitats.

7. Creating a Safe and Enriching Environment

Are bearded dragons safe pets when they have a stimulating environment? Yes, an enriched environment is key to their well-being. Beyond the basic necessities, creating a safe and stimulating environment is crucial for the well-being of your bearded dragon. Enrichment helps to reduce stress, prevent boredom, and promote natural behaviors.

7.1. Providing Hiding Spots

Hiding spots provide a sense of security for bearded dragons. Offer multiple hiding spots in the enclosure, such as caves, logs, or overturned flowerpots. Make sure the hiding spots are large enough for the dragon to comfortably fit inside.

7.2. Offering Climbing Opportunities

Bearded dragons enjoy climbing, so provide climbing opportunities in the enclosure. Offer sturdy branches, rocks, or platforms that the dragon can climb on. Make sure the climbing structures are securely placed to prevent them from falling.

7.3. Introducing Novel Objects

Introduce novel objects into the enclosure regularly to keep the dragon stimulated. You can offer new toys, such as balls or stuffed animals. You can also rearrange the enclosure to create a new environment for the dragon to explore.

7.4. Encouraging Foraging Behavior

Encourage foraging behavior by hiding food items around the enclosure. You can hide insects under rocks or in crevices. You can also use a puzzle feeder to make the dragon work for its food.

7.5. Providing Supervised Outdoor Time

If the weather is warm and sunny, you can take your bearded dragon outside for supervised outdoor time. Make sure the area is secure and free from predators. Provide shade and water for the dragon.

8. Safe Interaction with Children and Other Pets

Are bearded dragons safe pets around children and other pets? Yes, with proper supervision and precautions. Introducing a bearded dragon into a household with children or other pets requires careful consideration and planning. Proper supervision and education are essential to ensure the safety of both the reptile and the other members of the household.

8.1. Educating Children

Educate children about how to handle a bearded dragon gently and respectfully. Teach them not to squeeze, pull, or drop the dragon. Supervise interactions between children and the dragon to prevent accidental injury.

8.2. Supervised Interactions

Always supervise interactions between children and bearded dragons. Do not allow children to handle the dragon unsupervised. Teach children to wash their hands thoroughly after handling the dragon.

8.3. Introducing to Other Pets

Introduce the bearded dragon to other pets gradually and under supervision. Keep the dragon in a secure enclosure to prevent accidental injury. Do not allow other pets to harass or intimidate the dragon.

8.4. Separate Enclosures

Keep the bearded dragon in a separate enclosure from other pets. Do not allow other pets to enter the dragon’s enclosure. This will prevent accidental injury and reduce the risk of disease transmission.

8.5. Monitoring Behavior

Monitor the behavior of all pets during interactions. If any pet shows signs of aggression or stress, separate them immediately. Consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist if you have concerns about the safety of your pets.

9. Understanding Brumation and Its Impact on Safety

Are bearded dragons safe pets during brumation? Yes, but you need to recognize and manage this natural process. Brumation is a period of dormancy that bearded dragons undergo, typically during the cooler months. During brumation, the dragon’s metabolism slows down, and they may eat less, sleep more, and become less active. Understanding brumation is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of your bearded dragon.

9.1. Recognizing the Signs of Brumation

Common signs of brumation include:

Decreased appetite
Increased sleeping
Lethargy
Decreased activity
Hiding more often

These signs can be subtle, so it is important to monitor your dragon closely during the cooler months.

9.2. Consulting with a Veterinarian

Before allowing your bearded dragon to brumate, consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health problems. A veterinarian can perform a physical exam and fecal exam to ensure that your dragon is healthy enough to undergo brumation.

9.3. Preparing for Brumation

To prepare your bearded dragon for brumation, gradually decrease the temperature and lighting in the enclosure. Offer smaller meals and ensure that the dragon has access to fresh water. Provide a dark, quiet hiding spot where the dragon can sleep.

9.4. Monitoring During Brumation

Monitor your bearded dragon closely during brumation. Weigh the dragon regularly to ensure that it is not losing too much weight. Offer water periodically to prevent dehydration. Check the enclosure for signs of mold or mildew.

9.5. Gradual Awakening

As the weather warms up, gradually increase the temperature and lighting in the enclosure. Offer small meals and encourage the dragon to become more active. Consult with a veterinarian if the dragon does not wake up or eat after several weeks.

10. Emergency Preparedness: What to Do in a Crisis

Are bearded dragons safe pets during emergencies? Being prepared is crucial for their safety. Despite our best efforts, emergencies can happen. Being prepared for potential crises is essential for protecting the health and safety of your bearded dragon.

10.1. Identifying Emergency Situations

Common emergency situations include:

Power outages
Natural disasters
Illness or injury
Escape from the enclosure

10.2. Creating an Emergency Plan

Develop an emergency plan that includes:

Contact information for your veterinarian
A list of emergency supplies
A plan for evacuating your reptile
A designated safe place for your reptile

10.3. Assembling an Emergency Kit

Your emergency kit should include:

A portable carrier
A heat source (such as a heat pack)
A water bottle
A small amount of food
A first-aid kit
A towel or blanket

10.4. Veterinary Care

Know the location of the nearest emergency veterinary clinic that treats reptiles. Keep your reptile’s medical records readily available. Be prepared to transport your reptile to the veterinary clinic in an emergency.

10.5. Prevention

Prevent emergencies by:

Maintaining proper husbandry
Providing a secure enclosure
Supervising interactions with other pets
Regular veterinary check-ups

Taking these precautions can help to ensure the safety and well-being of your bearded dragon in the event of an emergency.

In conclusion, are bearded dragons safe pets? Yes, bearded dragons can be safe and rewarding pets for those who are prepared to provide proper care and attention. By understanding their behavior, providing a safe and enriching environment, and practicing responsible ownership, you can enjoy years of companionship with these gentle reptiles.

For more in-depth information on bearded dragon care, including detailed guides on nutrition, health, and behavior, visit PETS.EDU.VN. Our comprehensive resources can help you become a knowledgeable and responsible bearded dragon owner.

Do you need expert guidance on caring for your bearded dragon? Visit PETS.EDU.VN today for a wealth of information and resources tailored to reptile owners. Our site offers detailed guides on creating the perfect habitat, choosing the right diet, and preventing common health issues.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Bearded Dragon Safety

Here are some frequently asked questions about the safety of bearded dragons as pets:

1. Are bearded dragons safe for children?

Yes, bearded dragons can be safe for children if they are handled gently and under adult supervision. Educate children on how to properly interact with the dragon and always supervise their interactions.

2. Do bearded dragons bite?

Bearded dragons are not aggressive and rarely bite unless they feel threatened. A bite from a bearded dragon is not venomous but can still be painful, so it’s important to handle them with care.

3. Can bearded dragons transmit diseases to humans?

Bearded dragons can carry Salmonella bacteria, which can be transmitted to humans. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling your dragon or cleaning its enclosure to prevent the spread of bacteria.

4. What are the signs of stress in a bearded dragon?

Signs of stress in a bearded dragon include darkening of the beard, hissing, arm waving, and glass surfing. If you notice these signs, adjust your handling or environment to reduce the dragon’s stress.

5. How often should I clean my bearded dragon’s enclosure?

You should spot-clean your bearded dragon’s enclosure daily, removing feces and uneaten food. A more thorough cleaning should be done weekly, replacing the substrate and disinfecting the enclosure.

6. What should I feed my bearded dragon?

Bearded dragons require a varied diet of insects, vegetables, and fruits. The ratio of insects to vegetables should vary depending on the dragon’s age. Supplement their diet with calcium and vitamins as recommended by a veterinarian.

7. How do I prevent metabolic bone disease (MBD) in my bearded dragon?