🦎 Ultimate Bearded Dragon Care Guide

Setting up a bearded dragon the right way starts with choosing the correct equipment, lighting, and nutrition. The products below are commonly used essentials that help support proper habitat setup, healthy growth, and long-term care—making it easier to create a safe, comfortable environment for your beardie from day one.

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Quick Shop: Bearded Dragon Essentials (Amazon)

🏠 Habitat & Setup

🔥 Heating & Lighting

🥗 Feeding & Supplements

🧠 Enrichment & Handling

🧼 Health, Cleaning & Travel

📘 Chapter 1: Before You Buy – Is a Bearded Dragon Right for You?

Bearded dragons, or “beardies,” are one of the most popular pet reptiles for a reason—they’re friendly, relatively easy to care for, and have unique personalities. But like any living creature, they require specific care and long-term commitment. This chapter will help you determine if a bearded dragon is the right companion for your home and lifestyle.

1.1 What to Expect Owning a Bearded Dragon

Bearded dragons live 8–12 years with proper care. While they don’t need daily walks like a dog, they do need:

Daily feeding and monitoring
A properly maintained enclosure with lighting and heat
Regular cleaning and occasional vet visits

They are calm and often enjoy handling, but they still need gentle care and time to acclimate to human interaction.

1.2 Time and Lifestyle Considerations

Ask yourself:

Do you have 30–60 minutes per day for feeding, cleaning, and bonding?
Can you afford the initial habitat setup (~$200–$500) and monthly upkeep?
Do you have a quiet, safe space in your home for a large tank?

These lizards are not ideal for young kids to care for independently, but they make great family pets when an adult oversees care.

1.3 Bearded Dragon Personality

Beardies are known for being:

Docile and tolerant of handling
Inquisitive and active during the day (diurnal)
Quick to learn feeding routines and even recognize their owner

They can also display stress through “glass surfing” (pacing the tank) or darkening their beard. Observing these behaviors helps you learn what your beardie likes and dislikes.

1.4 Budgeting for Your First Year

Upfront Costs:

Enclosure (40-120 gallons): $100–$300
UVB & basking lights: $40–$100
Substrate, décor, and food bowls: $50–$100
Thermometers/hygrometers: $20–$50

Ongoing Monthly Costs:

Insects, greens, and calcium powder: $30–$50
Electricity for lights/heating: ~$10–$20
Occasional vet check-ups: $50–$100/year

1.5 Pros and Cons of Bearded Dragon Ownership

Pros	Cons
Friendly and easy to handle	Requires specialized lighting/heating
Long lifespan for a reptile	Daily cleaning and feeding
Fascinating to watch and interact	Can carry salmonella (wash hands often)
Diurnal (awake during the day)	Costs add up over time

1.6 Three Must-Have Products for First-Time Owners

To get started smoothly, here are 3 essential beginner-friendly items:

REPTI ZOO 120 Gallon Reptile Terrarium
- Spacious, front-opening glass enclosure
- Great airflow and security
- View on Amazon
Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0 UVB T5 HO Lamp
- Essential for bone and metabolic health
- High output, full-spectrum lighting
- View on Amazon
Exo Terra Digital Thermometer and Hygrometer
- Accurate monitoring of tank environment
- Easy-to-read digital display
- View on Amazon

1.7 Final Thoughts

Bearded dragons are rewarding pets when their care is understood and respected. If you’re willing to invest the time, money, and love, you’ll gain a quirky, loyal reptilian friend who can be part of your family for over a decade. If you’re excited rather than overwhelmed after reading this—then you’re probably ready for the next chapter.

Chapter 2: Setting Up the Perfect Habitat

Creating a Safe, Comfortable Home for Your Bearded Dragon

Bearded dragons may be hardy reptiles, but they thrive only when their environment closely mimics their natural habitat. Setting up their enclosure correctly from the beginning is essential for their health, happiness, and long-term well-being.

In this chapter, you’ll learn exactly what kind of space your bearded dragon needs—from tank size and lighting to substrate and décor—and get recommendations for gear to make it easy.

2.1 Tank Size: Bigger is Better

A bearded dragon’s enclosure needs to be roomy enough to allow for:

Proper temperature zoning (basking + cool areas)
Free movement and exploration
Growth into adulthood

Minimum tank size guidelines:

Baby (under 10 inches): 20–40 gallons
Juvenile (10–16 inches): 40–75 gallons
Adult (16+ inches): Minimum 75 gallons, ideally 120 gallons or more

A long, horizontal tank is better than tall ones, as beardies spend most of their time on the ground.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t buy a small tank and plan to “upgrade later.” You’ll save money (and stress) starting with a full-size enclosure from the start.

2.2 Substrate: Safe Ground to Walk On

There are many substrate options, but not all are safe. Loose substrates like sand can cause impaction (a potentially fatal digestive blockage) if ingested. For beginners, it’s best to stick with these safe options:

Non-adhesive shelf liner
Reptile carpet (washable and reusable)
Tile or slate (retains heat and is easy to clean)

Avoid: Calcium sand, wood chips, or bark. Even “digestible” sand can be dangerous over time.

2.3 Essential Décor: Enrichment + Function

A basic beardie setup should include:

Basking platform or rock for heat absorption
Hides on both warm and cool sides of the tank
Branches or hammocks for climbing and basking
Food and water dishes (shallow and stable)

These items not only make the enclosure more natural but also give your dragon a sense of safety and options for thermoregulation.

2.4 Choosing the Right Enclosure Location

Place your bearded dragon’s enclosure in a room that:

Maintains a consistent temperature
Has low traffic and minimal noise
Is away from direct air vents or sunlight (which can overheat the tank)

Avoid placing the enclosure near windows, radiators, or loud TVs. Beardies can become stressed by constant noise or too much activity.

2.5 Cleaning & Maintenance

Keep the enclosure clean by:

Removing uneaten food daily
Spot-cleaning feces or urates daily
Deep-cleaning surfaces weekly with reptile-safe disinfectant

Always wash your hands after handling your bearded dragon or cleaning the tank to prevent potential salmonella transmission.

2.6 Three Must-Have Products for Habitat Setup

To set your dragon up for success, consider these top-rated essentials:

Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium, 48Lx18Dx18H (67 Gallon)
- Perfect size for juvenile-to-adult beardies
- Sliding doors and front ventilation
- View on Amazon
Zilla Reptile Terrarium Liner (50 Gallon)
- Easy to clean, non-toxic, and won’t cause impaction
- Custom-fit and cuttable to size
- View on Amazon
PietyPet Bearded Dragon Accessories Pack (with Hammock, Logs & Bowls)
- Great starter décor bundle
- Includes basking platform, food dishes, and climbing accessories
- View on Amazon

2.7 Final Thoughts

Your bearded dragon’s habitat is more than a tank—it’s their entire world. A well-set-up enclosure helps regulate their body temperature, provides mental stimulation, and prevents health issues. Think of it as investing in your dragon’s future comfort and happiness.

Next, we’ll dive deeper into a critical component of your setup: Heating and Lighting—where many first-time owners make mistakes that can be costly to their pet’s health.

Chapter 3: Nutrition & Feeding

Fueling Your Bearded Dragon for a Long, Healthy Life

Bearded dragons are omnivores, requiring a balanced mix of insects, vegetables, and occasional fruits. Their dietary needs change drastically as they age, and improper feeding is one of the leading causes of illness. In this chapter, we’ll break down what to feed your dragon at each life stage, which insects and greens are best, how to supplement properly, and how to ensure they stay hydrated.

3.1 Diet Breakdown by Age: Baby vs Juvenile vs Adult

✔️ Baby Dragons (0–6 months)

Insect-heavy diet: 70–80% insects, 20–30% veggies
Feed 3–5 times per day
Prioritize protein for growth

✔️ Juvenile Dragons (6–12 months)

Balanced diet: 50% insects, 50% veggies
Feed 2–3 times daily
Begin focusing on more plant-based intake

✔️ Adult Dragons (12+ months)

Veggie-heavy diet: 70–80% greens, 20–30% insects
Feed once daily or every other day
Overfeeding insects in adulthood can cause obesity

🛑 Avoid feeding wild-caught insects. They may carry parasites or pesticides.

3.2 Staple Insects

Offer a variety of live insects that are properly gut-loaded (fed nutritious food 24 hours before feeding to your dragon):

Insect	Notes
Dubia Roaches	High protein, easy to digest, low fat
Crickets	Widely available, affordable, jumpy
Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL)	Naturally high in calcium, soft-bodied
Hornworms	Hydrating, great treat (not staple)
Mealworms/Superworms	Only for adults due to hard exoskeleton
Waxworms	Fatty—treat only, not staple

🛑 Avoid: Fireflies, wild bugs, large superworms for babies

3.3 Vegetables & Leafy Greens

Fresh vegetables should be a daily staple, especially for juveniles and adults. Focus on nutrient-dense, calcium-rich greens.

Best Greens (daily use):

Collard greens
Mustard greens
Turnip greens
Dandelion greens
Endive & escarole

Vegetables to rotate in:

Squash (butternut, acorn, spaghetti)
Bell peppers
Carrots (in moderation)
Green beans

🛑 Avoid: Spinach (binds calcium), iceberg lettuce (no nutrition), kale (occasional only due to oxalates)

3.4 Fruits & Occasional Treats

Fruits should make up no more than 5–10% of the diet, offered 1–2 times per week as treats.

Safe fruits in moderation:

Blueberries
Strawberries
Apples (no seeds)
Mango
Papaya

🛑 Avoid: Citrus (too acidic), avocado (toxic), rhubarb (deadly)

3.5 Calcium & Vitamin Supplementation

Bearded dragons require calcium to prevent metabolic bone disease, especially under UVB lighting. Use high-quality supplements:

Calcium without D3: For use when UVB lighting is present
Calcium with D3: For dragons that get limited UVB exposure
Multivitamin: Use sparingly, once per week

Supplement schedule:

Age	Calcium	Multivitamin
Babies	5x/week	1x/week
Juveniles	4x/week	1x/week
Adults	3x/week	1x/week

Dust insects and some veggies lightly before feeding.

3.6 Hydration Habits

Bearded dragons don’t always drink from standing water. Here’s how to keep them hydrated:

Misting: Lightly mist greens or dragon’s body (not too much to avoid mold)
Soaking: Bathe 2–3 times/week in lukewarm water to promote hydration and shedding
Drippers or shallow bowls: Some dragons will drink from moving water or puddles

💧 Tip: Look for wrinkled skin or sunken eyes as early signs of dehydration.

🛒 3 Must-Have Feeding Products (Amazon Affiliate Links)

Fluker’s High-Calcium Cricket Feed (for gut-loading)
- Keeps feeder insects nutritious for your beardie
- View on Amazon
Rep-Cal Herptivite Multivitamin for Reptiles
- Trusted vitamin blend, easy to mix with calcium
- View on Amazon
OMEM Reptile Feeding Dish Set (non-tip bowls)
- Perfect for veggies, insects, and water
- View on Amazon

3.7 Final Thoughts

Feeding your bearded dragon correctly is one of the most rewarding and impactful parts of reptile ownership. When their diet is balanced and nutrient-rich, you’ll see it in their behavior, color, and activity levels. Take the time to understand what they need at every stage, and you’ll be rewarded with a thriving, happy dragon.

Up next: Handling, Taming & Socialization – how to build trust and bond with your bearded dragon!

Chapter 4: Handling, Bonding & Behavior

Taming Your Dragon: Building Trust and Understanding Their Language

A bearded dragon may not bark or purr, but they have their own rich vocabulary—body language, gestures, and behaviors that communicate how they feel. In this chapter, we’ll explore how to handle your beardie safely, read their signals, build trust, and enrich their environment for better mental health.

4.1 Taming Your Dragon: Earning Trust and Reducing Stress

When you first bring a bearded dragon home, it may take days—or even weeks—for them to fully acclimate. This is normal. The key to taming is patience, consistency, and calm energy.

Tips to build trust:

Start by sitting near the enclosure to let them observe you
Offer food from your hand to create positive association
Don’t force handling—start slow and short
Always approach from the front or side (never from above like a predator)

Look for signs of progress like:

Taking food from your fingers or tongs
Climbing onto your hand voluntarily
Relaxing on your lap or chest

4.2 Handling Tips: Safe Practices for Kids and Adults

Proper handling keeps both your dragon and you safe.

How to handle a bearded dragon:

Gently scoop from underneath—support all four limbs and the belly
Keep them close to your body to help them feel secure
Avoid grabbing the tail or limbs

Do:

Wash your hands before and after
Handle them in a quiet, stable environment
Supervise children closely and teach gentle touch

Don’t:

Handle them right after feeding or during shedding
Let them roam unsupervised on high furniture
Place them near other pets (especially cats/dogs)

4.3 Body Language: What They’re Trying to Tell You

Bearded dragons are expressive, and understanding their body language helps you respond appropriately.

Behavior	Meaning
Head Bobbing	Dominance or mating behavior (fast bob = challenge, slow bob = submission)
Arm Waving	Submission or non-threatening greeting
Black Beard	Stress, fear, anger, or mating readiness
Glass Surfing	Stress, boredom, or wanting to explore
Tail Twitching	Alert or slightly agitated
Hissing/Gaping	Threat display or overheating
Color Fading	Relaxation (especially during basking)

🔍 Tip: A black beard doesn’t always mean aggression—check for environmental causes like temperature or tank stress.

4.4 Mental Stimulation & Play

A bored beardie is a stressed beardie. They are curious by nature and benefit greatly from safe stimulation both inside and outside the tank.

🧠 Enrichment Ideas:

Rearrange tank décor regularly
Offer climbing branches, logs, or hammocks
Hide insects or treats to encourage natural hunting
Introduce mirrors occasionally (some enjoy seeing their reflection)

🚶‍♂️ Safe Roaming & Outdoor Time:

Supervised indoor roaming in a closed, hazard-free room
Outdoor time on a leash or in a screened enclosure (weather permitting)
Avoid extreme temps, bright direct sun for long periods, or toxic plants

⚠️ Never leave your bearded dragon outside unattended, even in a fenced yard.

🛒 3 Must-Have Handling & Enrichment Products (Amazon Affiliate Links)

SLSON Reptile Leash & Harness Set
- Adjustable and soft for safe outdoor adventures
- View on Amazon
Niteangel Bearded Dragon Hammock + Ladder Kit
- Encourages climbing, lounging, and basking
- View on Amazon
REPTI ZOO Portable Reptile Playpen Enclosure (Pop-Up Outdoor Use)
- Great for safe outdoor stimulation or travel
- View on Amazon

4.5 Final Thoughts

Bonding with your bearded dragon is one of the most rewarding parts of ownership. They may not cuddle like a dog, but they absolutely recognize you, learn your patterns, and enjoy calm interaction. When you learn to read their signals and provide mental stimulation, you’ll unlock a whole new level of companionship.

Up next: Health & Hygiene: Common Illnesses, Shedding & Cleanliness – How to spot problems early and keep your dragon in peak condition.

Chapter 5: Health & Hygiene

Keeping Your Bearded Dragon Clean, Comfortable & Illness-Free

While bearded dragons are hardy reptiles, they are still vulnerable to a range of health issues if their environment and diet aren’t carefully maintained. In this chapter, you’ll learn how to recognize early signs of illness, maintain proper hygiene, prevent common diseases, and find professional help when needed.

5.1 Common Health Issues

Understanding the most frequent medical conditions in bearded dragons can help you act quickly when something goes wrong.

🦠 Parasites (Internal & External)

Symptoms: Diarrhea, weight loss, lethargy, poor appetite
Cause: Often from contaminated feeder insects or poor hygiene
Prevention: Routine fecal checks and clean enclosure practices

🪵 Impaction (Digestive Blockage)

Symptoms: Lack of bowel movements, bloating, dragging back legs
Cause: Eating substrate, oversized food, dehydration
Prevention: Use safe substrates (no sand!), provide proper hydration

💀 Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)

Symptoms: Lethargy, soft jaw, limb tremors, crooked limbs
Cause: Lack of calcium or insufficient UVB lighting
Prevention: Daily calcium, proper UVB exposure

🌬️ Respiratory Infections

Symptoms: Wheezing, bubbling from nose, lethargy, open-mouth breathing
Cause: Low temperatures or high humidity
Prevention: Maintain correct temperature gradients and ventilation

5.2 Signs of Illness: What to Watch For

Early detection is key. Be alert for these common red flags:

Dramatic appetite changes
Lethargy or sudden aggression
Unusual stools (runny, smelly, or discolored)
Gaping mouth (when not basking)
Black beard that doesn’t lighten
Swelling in limbs or jaw
Loss of weight despite eating

🔔 If you notice multiple symptoms or persistent issues, contact a reptile vet immediately.

5.3 Bathing & Shedding: Hygiene Basics

Bathing:
Bearded dragons should be bathed 2–3 times per week in shallow, lukewarm water (no soap). This helps with hydration, cleanliness, and bowel movements.

How to bathe your beardie:

Use a plastic tub or sink
Water should be no deeper than their shoulders
Gently splash water over their back
Supervise at all times (they can drown!)

Shedding:
Beardies shed in patches—babies more often (weekly), adults less (every few months). Never pull off stuck shed. Instead:

Increase humidity slightly during shed
Offer a rough surface (like driftwood) for rubbing
Use shedding spray if needed

⚠️ Retained shed on toes or tail can cause constriction and tissue damage.

5.4 Preventative Care: Staying One Step Ahead

Preventive health routines are essential:

Fecal tests every 6–12 months (especially for parasites)
Regular weigh-ins to monitor body condition
Spot cleaning daily, deep-clean tank weekly
Proper diet & supplementation to avoid MBD
UVB bulb replacement every 6 months

🛠 Keep a bearded dragon health journal with dates of feeding, shedding, weight, and any behavior changes.

5.5 Finding a Reptile Vet

Not all veterinarians are trained in exotic reptile care. You’ll need a reptile-certified or exotic vet for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

How to find one:

Search “exotic vet near me” or use the ARAV directory (Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians)
Ask your local pet store or herpetology group
Call ahead and ask if they treat bearded dragons

✅ Establish a relationship before there’s an emergency—you’ll be glad you did.

🛒 3 Must-Have Health & Hygiene Products (Amazon Affiliate Links)

Zoo Med Repti Shedding Aid Spray
- Helps loosen and moisturize stuck shed
- View on Amazon
Exo Terra Digital Thermo-Hygrometer
- Accurately tracks both temperature and humidity
- View on Amazon
Fluker’s Repta Rinse Reptile Eye Rinse
- Gentle eye cleaner to flush out debris or prevent infection
- View on Amazon

5.6 Final Thoughts

Preventing illness is much easier than treating it. A clean environment, proper lighting, balanced nutrition, and regular observation are your best defense. By keeping your dragon clean and comfortable, you’re helping them live a longer, healthier life—and saving yourself costly vet bills.

Up next: Long-Term Commitment: Lifespan, Enrichment & Travel Care – How to ensure your dragon stays happy for years to come.

Chapter 6: Long-Term Commitment

Lifespan, Enrichment & Travel Care for Your Bearded Dragon

Bearded dragons aren’t just temporary pets—they’re long-term companions. With proper care, they can live 8–12 years, sometimes longer. In this chapter, you’ll learn how to enrich their lives through mental stimulation, prepare for major life changes like vacations or moving, and understand the full commitment involved in being a bearded dragon owner.

6.1 Lifespan: What You’re Committing To

Bearded dragons live an average of 8–12 years in captivity. Some have reached 15+ years with exceptional care.

Key long-term responsibilities include:

Maintaining proper diet and UVB lighting
Monitoring for age-related health issues (arthritis, slower digestion)
Planning for care during vacations or emergencies
Ensuring regular vet visits as they age

🕒 Think long-term: Before adopting, ask yourself if you can commit to over a decade of daily care, costs, and attention.

6.2 Enrichment Throughout Their Life

Mental stimulation is vital for keeping a bearded dragon active and engaged—even as they age.

Lifelong enrichment ideas:

Rotate tank décor to introduce novelty
Provide basking platforms, tunnels, and climbing elements
Use puzzle feeders or hand-feeding for engagement
Offer outdoor exploration (supervised) when safe
Introduce new textures (tiles, fake plants, ramps) in their space

🎮 Enrichment reduces boredom, prevents “glass surfing,” and leads to more natural behavior.

6.3 Recognizing Age-Related Changes

As your bearded dragon grows older, expect changes in behavior and energy.

Signs of aging may include:

Less interest in food or reduced activity
Slightly duller coloring
More time basking and resting
Thicker or slower sheds
Weight loss or muscle tone reduction

What to do:

Make climbing easier with lower perches
Offer easier-to-digest foods (softer insects, finely chopped greens)
Provide extra warmth during colder seasons
Continue routine vet visits and fecal exams

6.4 Vacation, Travel & Emergency Planning

Life happens. It’s important to plan ahead for when you can’t be there.

Options for travel care:

Trusted pet sitter (best choice): Someone experienced with reptiles
Boarding: Some exotic vet clinics offer reptile boarding
Temporary travel enclosure: If you need to take them with you (short trips only)

When traveling with your dragon:

Use a ventilated, secure reptile carrier
Include a small heating pad or warm water bottle
Keep them in a calm, quiet space away from extreme temps

🧳 Emergency Prep Tip: Always have a backup power source for heat lamps during outages.

6.5 Budgeting for the Long Haul

Over the years, expenses can include:

New UVB bulbs every 6–12 months
Vet visits and fecal exams
Upgrading tank size or décor
Feeding (especially if breeding feeders at home)
Travel supplies or pet sitters during vacations

Estimated yearly cost: $300–$500
Planning financially ensures you’re never caught off guard.

🛒 3 Must-Have Long-Term & Travel Care Products (Amazon Affiliate Links)

REPTI ZOO Portable Reptile Travel Carrier with Ventilation
- Perfect for trips, vet visits, or emergency evacuations
- View on Amazon
Exo Terra Reptile Cave (Medium/Large)
- Comfortable hide spot—important for enrichment and aging dragons
- View on Amazon
Zilla Heat Mat Terrarium Warmer (Medium, 16W)
- Great backup heat source for travel or power outages
- View on Amazon

6.6 Final Thoughts

Owning a bearded dragon is a long-term partnership filled with daily care, subtle behavioral cues, and rewarding companionship. By preparing for changes in their health, mood, and mobility, you’re not just giving them a home—you’re giving them a full life.

Up next: Chapter 7 – Resources, Rescue & Responsible Ownership – How to support the reptile community and make ethical choices in bearded dragon care.

Chapter 7: Long-Term Care & Enrichment

Maintaining Daily Routines, Planning for Life Stages, and Traveling Smart

Bearded dragon care doesn’t end once the tank is set up. It’s an ongoing commitment that includes daily routines, seasonal adaptations, record keeping, and even planning for time away. Long-term care ensures your beardie thrives from youth to old age. Let’s dive into how to keep their care consistent and enriching for years to come.

7.1 Daily, Weekly & Monthly Care Tasks

Keeping your bearded dragon healthy involves consistent routines. Here’s a breakdown:

🗓️ Daily Tasks

Feed fresh veggies/insects
Spot-clean waste
Check temperature and UVB light
Mist or bathe if needed
Observe behavior for changes

📆 Weekly Tasks

Deep clean food and water dishes
Rotate tank décor for stimulation
Bathe for hydration and cleanliness
Light substrate cleaning

🗓️ Monthly Tasks

Deep-clean tank and décor with reptile-safe cleaner
Check UVB bulb output (replace every 6 months)
Weigh your dragon
Review feeding and behavior logs

7.2 Seasonal Changes & Brumation

Brumation is a hibernation-like state that occurs during cooler months, usually in adult bearded dragons.

Signs of Brumation:

Decreased appetite or activity
Sleeping more, often in hides
Less basking or movement

Is It Normal?
Yes, especially in fall/winter. It can last a few weeks to 2+ months.

Brumation Safety Tips:

Offer food less frequently (don’t force it)
Always provide fresh water
Keep temps stable (but reduce basking slightly)
Avoid handling unless necessary
Do not brumate sick dragons—consult a reptile vet first

7.3 Record Keeping: The Health Tracker You Didn’t Know You Needed

Tracking your bearded dragon’s health makes it easier to spot trends or issues early.

Useful things to log:

Feeding schedules and food types
Shedding dates and behavior
Weight (weekly/monthly)
Fecal appearance
Lighting/bulb replacement dates
Notes on mood, activity, or unusual behavior

🗒️ A basic notebook or spreadsheet works—many keepers use apps or printed logs.

7.4 Upgrades & Senior Dragon Care

As your dragon ages, they may need small adjustments:

Habitat Adjustments for Older Beardies:

Lower basking platforms and hides
Softer or smoother surfaces
Easier access to food/water
Warmer overnight temps during colder months

Health Considerations:

Arthritis or slower movement
Reduced appetite
More frequent baths for hydration
Continue calcium and multivitamins to maintain bone strength

🧓 Just like us, beardies slow down with age—but they can still live happily and comfortably with the right support.

7.5 Travel & Boarding: What To Do When You’re Away

You’ll eventually need to travel—and beardies can’t always come with you.

Option 1: In-Home Pet Sitter
Best choice. Train them on feeding, misting, and light schedules. Leave printed instructions and your vet’s contact info.

Option 2: Reptile Boarding Facility or Exotic Vet
Call ahead and check that they’re experienced with bearded dragons.

Option 3: Short-Term Travel with Your Dragon
If necessary, use a well-ventilated carrier and heat pad. Keep trips short and avoid extreme temperatures or stress.

✈️ NEVER leave a bearded dragon unattended in a vehicle or sunlit area—they overheat quickly and can die in minutes.

🛒 3 Must-Have Long-Term Care Products (Amazon Affiliate Links)

Bearded Dragon Care Log Book: Feeding, Shedding, & Health Tracker
- Keep track of everything in one organized place
- View on Amazon
Zilla Pro Sol Reptile Terrarium Cleaner
- Safe, non-toxic formula for monthly deep cleaning
- View on Amazon
REPTI ZOO Reptile Transport Carrier
- Ideal for vet visits, emergency evacuations, or short trips
- View on Amazon

7.6 Final Thoughts

Consistency is key in long-term reptile care. By sticking to simple routines, adjusting for age and seasons, and preparing ahead for travel, you’ll provide your bearded dragon with a safe, stimulating life from hatchling to senior. Caring for these incredible creatures is a marathon, not a sprint—and it’s deeply rewarding every step of the way.

🦎 Congratulations—you’ve completed the Ultimate Bearded Dragon Care Guide!