FAQs
Welcome to our FAQs page, where you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about bearded dragon care. We’ve organized our FAQs into categories to make it easy for you to find the information you need. Simply click on any question to reveal detailed answers and helpful tips.
What is the ideal temperature for a bearded dragon's enclosure?
Bearded dragons need a temperature gradient in their enclosure. The basking area should be between 95-110°F (35-43°C), while the cooler side should be around 75-85°F (24-29°C). At night, the temperature can drop to around 70-75°F (21-24°C).
How often should I feed my bearded dragon?
Young bearded dragons (up to 6 months old) should be fed 2-3 times a day with a diet primarily consisting of insects. As they mature, they should transition to more vegetables and can be fed once a day or every other day.
What should I do if my bearded dragon stops eating?
A decrease in appetite can be normal during shedding, brumation, or if your bearded dragon is stressed. However, if your dragon refuses food for more than a few days or shows other signs of illness, consult a reptile veterinarian.
How often do bearded dragons shed?
Bearded dragons typically shed their skin every few weeks when they are young and growing rapidly. As they age, shedding becomes less frequent, occurring every few months. Regular shedding is a sign of good health.
What should I do if my bearded dragon has trouble shedding?
If your bearded dragon has trouble shedding, provide a warm bath to help loosen the skin. You can also gently mist their enclosure to increase humidity, but be careful not to overdo it, as high humidity can lead to respiratory issues.
Can I house two bearded dragons together?
It’s generally not recommended to house two bearded dragons together, especially males, as they can become territorial and aggressive. Females can sometimes be housed together, but it’s best to monitor them closely or provide separate enclosures to avoid stress or injury.
How do I know if my bearded dragon is sick?
Signs of illness in bearded dragons include lethargy, loss of appetite, abnormal stool, swelling, respiratory distress, or unusual behavior. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a reptile veterinarian as soon as possible.
What type of substrate should I use in my bearded dragon’s enclosure?
It’s recommended to use solid substrates like reptile carpet, tile, or paper towels to avoid the risk of impaction, which can occur if your dragon ingests loose substrates like sand.
How can I tell the gender of my bearded dragon?
To determine the gender of your bearded dragon, gently lift the tail and look at the underside near the vent. Males typically have two bulges (hemipenal bulges) on either side of the tail base, while females have a single bulge or none.
Do bearded dragons need UVB light?
Yes, UVB light is essential for bearded dragons as it helps them produce vitamin D3, which is necessary for calcium absorption. Without UVB, they are at risk of developing metabolic bone disease (MBD).