Bearded dragons are one of the most popular pet reptiles thanks to their calm personalities, hardy nature, and easy handling. This care sheet covers everything you need to know to keep your bearded dragon healthy, comfortable, and thriving.
Enclosure & Habitat Setup
Tank Size
Adults: Minimum 40–75 gallons (ideal 4x2x2)
Juveniles: 20–40 gallons
A larger enclosure allows natural movement, basking, and better overall health.
Safe Substrates
Reptile carpet
Tile
Vinyl flooring
Paper towels (best for young or recovering dragons)
Avoid loose sand, calcium sand, and wood chips because they can cause impaction or respiratory problems.
Heating & Lighting
Bearded dragons need proper heat and UVB to digest food, stay active, and maintain strong bones.
Temperatures
Basking area: 95°F–105°F
Cool side: 75°F–85°F
Nighttime: 70°F–75°F
Lighting
Use a T5 HO UVB tube rated 10.0 or 12%
Mount the UVB inside the enclosure for best results
Replace the bulb every 6–12 months
Combine a bright basking bulb with UVB for healthy digestion and energy.
Diet & Feeding
Bearded dragons are omnivores and require a balanced diet of insects and vegetables.
Feeding Ratio
Juveniles: 70% insects / 30% greens
Adults: 20% insects / 80% greens
Good Feeder Insects
Dubia roaches
Crickets
Superworms (as treats)
Black soldier fly larvae
Hornworms
Best Vegetables & Greens
Collard greens
Mustard greens
Turnip greens
Squash
Bell peppers
Green beans
Avoid: avocado, onions, iceberg lettuce, and any wild insects.
Hydration & Humidity
Bearded dragons come from dry environments.
Humidity: 30–40%
Provide a shallow water dish
Mist vegetables for extra moisture
Bath 1–2 times a week if shedding or dehydrated
Handling & Temperament
Bearded dragons are gentle and easy to tame.
Handle daily
Always support the chest and tail
Move slowly so they feel secure
Shedding
Dragons shed frequently when young and in patches as adults.
Increase hydration
Let the shed fall off naturally
Never pull shed skin
Common Health Concerns
Watch for:
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Swollen limbs
Black beard stress displays
Trouble breathing
Runny or unusual stools
If any symptoms appear, contact a reptile veterinarian.
Lifespan & Growth
With proper care, bearded dragons typically live 10–15 years. They grow quickly during their first year and reach full size around 12–18 months.
Final Care Tips
Use proper UVB
Keep temperatures accurate
Offer a varied diet
Keep the enclosure clean
Provide hides, branches, and climbing areas
