Don't Make These 5 Most Common Mistakes with Your Bearded Dragon!
Bearded dragons are one of the most popular pet reptiles due to their friendly nature, wide availability, and relatively easy care requirements. However, new and experienced owners alike can make mistakes that may impact their pet’s long-term health and well-being. To ensure your scaly pal thrives, avoid making these five common bearded dragon care mistakes!
1. Incorrect UVB Lighting
Bearded dragons require UVB lighting to properly metabolize calcium and prevent metabolic bone disease (MBD). A common mistake is either not providing a UVB light at all or using an insufficient one.
Solution: Use a high-quality linear UVB bulb, such as the Reptisun 10.0 or Arcadia 12% T5, and replace it every 6-12 months to maintain effectiveness. Ensure the bulb covers half of the enclosure and that no glass or plastic barriers block the UVB rays.
2. Poor Diet Choices
Many owners either overfeed or underfeed their bearded dragons or provide an imbalanced diet. Feeding too many insects and not enough vegetables can lead to obesity and nutrient deficiencies in adult dragons, and underfeeding babies can lead to poor growth.
Solution: Offer a balanced diet consisting of leafy greens (e.g., collard, mustard, and dandelion greens), live insects, and occasional fruits. Younger dragons require more protein (80% insects, 20% greens), while adults need a more plant-based diet (80% greens, 20% insects).
Check out our articles on Baby Bearded Dragon Care, and Bearded Dragon Diet Guide!
3. Inadequate Temperature and Humidity Levels
Bearded dragons need a temperature gradient to regulate their body heat. A lack of proper basking temperatures or an enclosure that is too cold can lead to digestive and immune system issues.
Solution: Maintain a basking spot of 105-115°F (40-46°C) and a cooler side around 70-85°F (21-29°C). Use a digital thermometer and infrared temp gun to monitor temperatures accurately. Additionally, keep humidity levels between 30-40% to prevent respiratory infections.
4. Improper Calcium and Vitamin D3 Supplementation
A lack of proper calcium and Vitamin D3 supplementation can lead to metabolic bone disease (MBD), a preventable, oftentimes severe condition in bearded dragons. Many owners either neglect supplementation or overuse it without proper guidance.
Solution: Dust feeder insects with calcium powder (without D3) for most feedings and use calcium with D3 every few meals. Ensure your bearded dragon gets proper UVB exposure, as it is essential for Vitamin D3 synthesis and calcium absorption.
5. Using Too Small of an Enclosure
Many owners make the mistake of housing their bearded dragon in an enclosure that is too small, inhibiting their ability to thermoregulate properly and taking away opportunities for their beardie to express natural behaviors.
Solution: Bearded dragons require a minimum enclosure size of 4x2x2 to allow for proper movement, basking, and enrichment. Larger enclosures are always better. Ensure the setup includes appropriate lighting, heating/temperature gradients, hiding spots, and climbing opportunities to keep your dragon comfortable.
Proper care is essential for the health and well-being of bearded dragons in captivity. By educating yourself on the most common mistakes, you can help avoid making them yourself. Always research, stay informed, and consult a reptile veterinarian when in doubt. Your bearded dragon will thank you for it!
