You've got a breadie, now what?

Bearded dragons are perfect for people who are looking for a low maintenance reptile and according to an article published by Reptiles Magazine  in March of 2021, bearded dragons are the most popular reptiles to own. Relatively easy to care for, especially for children and people on the go, these charismatic little lizards can grow up two feet long and can live up to 15 years. That means they will probably be a better choice than marriage for some of you. However, like every other pet you may bring into your home you'll want to be prepared for your new scaley friend.

    We do breed these cute and lovable omnivores, along with many other reptiles. Now, the insects that they need in their diet, such as earthworms, mealworms, crickets and dubia roaches, can all be found HERE. Yes, I'm aware that bugs are gross, but there is something satisfying about naming a roach after your old boss and feeding it to a dragon. However, creepy crawlers are not the only thing that we feed our beloved little beardies. They also have been known to snack on fruits and veggies! They love strawberries, raspberries and grapes just as much as the next kid, just make sure they are diced to the right size so your tiny dragon doesn't choke. For veggies, these little guys have been known to love things such as collard greens, bell peppers, kale, parsley, cilantro and many more. Spinach, broccoli and lettuce can be done sparingly, seeing as some trace minerals can be found and these don't really offer any nutritional value to your new friend. In their younger years, you'll want to feed them a few times a days. If they don't finish their meal feed them a smaller amount next time. Just like you, your little beardie doesn't want a house full of bugs after a meal has ended. As these surprisingly cuddly little creatures mature they will only be need to feed once a day, but as every good parent knows, little growers need to eat. 

If you've adopted one of our little beardie babies you can easily start your new baby in a 10 gallon tank, but you'll need to find a 20 to 50 gallon long glass aquarium by the time they are six months old. Don't forget that these little guys love to climb, so having fun stuff in their enclosures is important. Remember, your beardie is your new baby, so don't put anything in their habitat that they could potentially choke on. Decorating can be fun when you get a new pet, but we want to make sure that everything is safe for your beardie. If you want to add some pop to your new pets little home we highly recommend shopping with Candice when decorating your dragons new hut or cave. Her Etsy store has some wonderful examples of the things that little beardies find cozy in their leisure time. Small pebbles, gravel and sand could be harmful to your new pet, though. When shopping be sure they have a cozy place to relax, something to climb on, a hut to hide in and a small bowl for water. Not too deep now, if they get in and can't get out...well...I honestly don't know anyone who makes caskets this small.

You'll need to keep this small bowl cleaned out and refilled roughly three to four times a week. Like most other reptiles you'll want a cool side and a basking side. Thermometers are necessary in the tank to be sure the temperature is safe enough for your new baby. You want your cooling side to be around 80 degrees Fahrenheit and the basking side should be roughly around 100 degrees Fehrenhiet. Misting the tank a few times a week is good for your new friend, too. Just not in the face. No one likes that. Now, just like your Instagram pictures, your beardie needs the right lightening. The UVB lightening helps your little friend maintain their calcium levels. You need to change these bulbs every six months. Don't wait for it to go out and panic trying to find one last minute. This is a pet, not your gas tank.

You're goal is to mimic Australia where these little dragons originate. They get that fantastic name from the little beard of spikes found under their chins. If they puff up and turn black, (just the beard, you didn't adopt Toothless from that kids movie) they are feeling threatened. It's okay to back off for minute and let them settle down. Chances are you're just annoying and your bearded dragon is the first to tell you. Regardless of your temperament, these loveable little reptiles are wonderful family pets and they look forward to being welcomed into your home.