\n
As long as your beardie has the right habitat components\u2014such as temperature control<\/strong>, UVB lighting<\/strong>, appropriate substrates<\/strong>, etc.\u2014they should thrive in captivity.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\nSince these animals aren\u2019t particularly active or destructive, it won\u2019t be necessary to replace items frequently or worry about furniture damage<\/strong> due to climbing or burrowing.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis makes owning a bearded dragon much less stressful<\/strong> than owning other types of pets!<\/p>\n\n\n\n2. It’s nice to have them around!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n One of the great things about having a bearded dragon is that they enjoy our company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They are incredibly social and love to interact with us, either through gentle petting or by watching us move around their habitats. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This makes them an ideal companion animal for those who want something more than just an ordinary cage-bound pet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bearded dragons can be trained to recognize some commands and tricks<\/strong>, which adds further entertainment value<\/strong> for both you and your new friend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/path> <\/g> <\/g> <\/path> <\/g> <\/g> <\/circle> <\/g> <\/g> <\/svg><\/div>\n
It doesn’t require experience to train reptiles, it’s relatively easy to teach your beardie basic behaviors like coming when called or even learning how to do simple tricks such as playing dead or giving high-fives! <\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\nNot only will this provide hours of fun and entertainment but also create a strong bond between you two.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Handling them is their favorite thing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n If you’re considering getting one as a pet, you’ll be pleased to know that bearded dragons really enjoy being handled and interacting with their owners<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFor those looking for an animal companion who likes spending time with humans, it’s hard to beat a beardie! Here is why:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nThey tend not to get scared easily when someone approaches them or touches them<\/li>\n\n\n\n With frequent handling from an early age, they will become used to human interaction making them more docile and friendly<\/strong> over time<\/li>\n\n\n\nMost bearded dragons like having their heads scratched which can create a strong bond between them and their owner<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\nSome specimens will even seek out physical contact by climbing onto people\u2019s shoulders or arms when given the opportunity<\/li>\n\n\n\n Beardies make excellent show-and-tell companions due to their relatively small size<\/strong> and gentle temperament<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nIn short, if you want an affectionate pet that loves lots of cuddles and enjoys spending time with its family then there isn’t much better than owning a bearded dragon!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n4. Bearded Dragon Live Long Lives<\/h3>\n\n\n\n I’m sure you’re already aware that bearded dragons are long-lived. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In fact, Bearded dragons can live up to 15 years in captivity with proper care and attention<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis makes them a great addition to the family for many years to come!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, you won’t have to worry about replacing your beloved companion anytime soon, since they have such a long lifespan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Beautiful and available in various color<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Bearded dragons are simply stunning! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bearded dragons come in a variety of colors, from bright yellow to burnt orange and dark red<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nTheir texture is quite unique too; they have spines that look like a beard hence their name. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When it comes to the range of color possibilities, bearded dragons have taken over reptile care experts\u2019 hearts with their beauty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not only do they come in multiple shades and patterns<\/strong>, but also combinations of both – some will even be speckled or striped.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/path> <\/g> <\/g> <\/path> <\/g> <\/g> <\/circle> <\/g> <\/g> <\/svg><\/div>\n
Some morphs are striking enough that if seen out in nature people would assume the lizard was created by Photoshop! <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Benefits Of A Variety Of Colors:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\nMore Interesting To Look At:<\/strong> It can be so much fun watching your dragon change as he grows older and seeing how his patterning develops into its full potential.<\/li>\n\n\n\nStronger Immunity:<\/strong> Different colored lizards may have stronger immune systems due to environmental factors such as temperature, humidity levels, UVB lighting, etc., which means healthier dragons down the road.<\/li>\n\n\n\nUnique Personality:<\/strong> Each bearded dragon has its own individual personality<\/strong> regardless of its coloring; however, many owners believe that certain morphs tend to take on more distinct personalities than others.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n6. Playing with and carrying bearded dragons is easy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Bearded dragons are surprisingly lightweight, so they’re easy to carry around<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nI’ve seen people take their bearded dragons for a walk on the leash! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
They also make great playmates; you can even teach them tricks with positive reinforcement techniques<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nTheir docile nature makes them ideal for handling and cuddling as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Be sure to provide plenty of time for<\/strong> relaxation<\/strong> and avoid stressing out<\/strong> your dragon by overly handling them or engaging in too much activity at once. <\/p>\n\n\n\nRespectful interaction is key <\/strong>\u2014 if your dragon isn’t feeling up to being handled one day, then don’t force it! Allowing them some space will only strengthen the bond that you share.<\/p>\n\n\n\n7. Nice Quiet Pet<\/h3>\n\n\n\n They don’t bark, meow, or chirp and they sleep during the day<\/strong> so you won\u2019t be disturbed while at home. <\/p>\n\n\n\nIt’s like having an evergreen tree that doesn\u2019t need watering!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are some great benefits of owning a bearded dragon:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nLow maintenance<\/strong> \u2013 bearded dragons only require feeding once every one to two days and their tanks are cleaned weekly<\/li>\n\n\n\nQuiet<\/strong> \u2013 no barking or meowing; just the occasional whistle when communicating with other Bearded Dragons<\/li>\n\n\n\nCan live up to 10 years<\/strong> in captivity if taken care of properly<\/li>\n\n\n\nFun to watch as they explore and play with each other<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>
\n
Having a bearded dragon is also beneficial for your mental health – watching them can help reduce stress levels and provide comfort<\/strong>. You get all these advantages without any noise pollution from your new best friend.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n8. They Don’t Smell<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Bearded dragons are relatively odorless when compared to other pet reptiles<\/strong>, they don’t produce odors that linger in the air and they don’t need daily baths as some amphibians do<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThis makes them a great choice for people who might not be able to handle the smell of their reptile companion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition, bearded dragons simply don\u2019t carry an<\/strong> unpleasant scent<\/strong> \u2013 so you won\u2019t have to worry about your house smelling bad from having one as a pet! <\/p>\n\n\n\nWith proper care, including regular spot cleaning and changing out substrate weekly<\/strong>, you can maintain a pleasant living environment with your dragon. <\/p>\n\n\n\n9. Somewhat Inexpensive<\/h3>\n\n\n\n For those of us on a budget, owning a bearded dragon can be an affordable and worthwhile investment. Even if you\u2019re looking for the more expensive morphs, like The Red Hypo or Super Hypo citrus dragons<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThey are still much cheaper than other exotic animals<\/strong> that require similar upkeep. <\/p>\n\n\n\nPlus, since these creatures don’t need to eat as often as some pets do, your food expenses won\u2019t skyrocket either!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The cost of housing is also relatively low when it comes to beardies. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/path> <\/g> <\/g> <\/path> <\/g> <\/g> <\/circle> <\/g> <\/g> <\/svg><\/div>\n
A simple 40-gallon<\/strong> tank with all the necessary equipment \u2013 UVB lighting, adequate ventilation, proper substrate<\/strong> \u2013 will set you back no more than<\/strong> $150<\/strong> in most cases. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\nConsidering everything else a pet needs (i.e., vet visits) this is quite reasonable<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nAll in all, having a bearded dragon around doesn\u2019t have to break the bank<\/strong>; making them ideal for people who want something special without spending too much money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n10. They Can Be Hand-Fed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Hand-feeding bearded dragons are one of the biggest benefits of owning them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
They can be very interactive with their owners<\/strong>, and many will gladly accept food from a human hand<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThis makes it easier to observe behaviors associated with eating habits such as head bobbing or arm waving<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nIt’s also an excellent opportunity for bonding time<\/strong> between you two. <\/p>\n\n\n\nHand-fed reptiles tend to show more affection towards their caregivers<\/strong> than those that are fed in other ways.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBut before attempting this, make sure your beardie has been properly tamed! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Taming requires patience and consistency<\/strong> on your part, but with some practice, it can be done relatively quickly. <\/p>\n\n\n\nIf they’re not used to people touching them yet<\/strong>, then start by offering treats while slowly introducing physical contact until they become comfortable being handled<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nOnce they feel secure<\/strong> and relaxed around humans<\/strong>, hand-feeding becomes much simpler.<\/p>\n\n\n\nCons Of Having A Bearded Dragon<\/h2>\n\n\n\n While bearded dragons may be attractive, they are not for the faint of heart. They can carry salmonella bacteria in their feces, which can be transmitted to individuals.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThey also require enough space and certain lighting and temperatures to thrive in nature. In some cases, if they are caught in the wild, they may suffer from health issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It can take a long time for owners to take care of baby bearded dragons since they require a lot of live food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Need Plenty Of Space<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Dodo<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nBearded dragons are undeniably cute, but they require a lot of space to be happy and healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Having enough room is not only important for their physical health, but it’s also key to ensuring that your dragon doesn’t become stressed or aggressive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It may seem like an easy task, to provide adequate living quarters for one reptile, yet many people underestimate the amount of space needed by these creatures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It’s true that bearded dragons don’t need as much room as larger lizards such as iguanas, but they still benefit from having plenty of areas to roam around in. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A minimum tank size of 40 gallons is recommended when housing two adult beardies together; if there are more than two adults in the same enclosure then you’ll need an even bigger setup! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A bearded dragon needs a large cage, with an ideal volume of 120 gallons. It needs a lot more space on the floor than it does on top.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thermosensitivity<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: reptileadvisor.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nBearded dragons are incredibly sensitive to temperature. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In order for them to be comfortable, their environment needs to remain at a consistent temperature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If it’s too cold, their metabolism slows down, making them lethargic, weak, and unable to digest food properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the other hand, if it gets too hot, they can suffer from heat stroke or dehydration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Besides, if these temperatures aren’t maintained correctly over time, bearded dragons can become stressed out or even develop health problems like respiratory infections or metabolic bone disease. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
An Insect and Vegetable Balance Diet Is Needed<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: iStock + Centuryboy<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nIt can be difficult to provide bearded dragons with a balanced diet of vegetables and insects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Owners must know what types of food are necessary for their dragon’s health, as well as how much they should eat each day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Additionally, the owner needs to make sure that any live insects offered have not been treated with pesticides or other chemicals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Insects such as crickets, mealworms, super worms, waxworms, fruit flies, roaches, silkworms, and more may need to be purchased from specialty stores or online retailers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Vegetables such as collard greens, mustard greens, turnip greens, dandelion greens, and parsley should also be included in their diet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It Takes Time And Effort To Maintain The Tank<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Maintaining the tank requires time and effort which should not be underestimated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The first thing to keep your reptile healthy is to clean out its enclosure regularly. You should do this at least once every two weeks, but if needed, more frequently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This includes removing any uneaten food or waste that has accumulated in the tank over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Second Step – You will need to monitor and adjust the temperature levels within the atmosphere of the enclosure as this is critical for the health of your pet- too low and they may become lethargic; too high and they could suffer from heatstroke! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When caring for a Bearded Dragon, you should also monitor humidity levels since these factors are important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You need to maintain hygine <\/h3>\n\n\n\n Since bearded dragons are known to spread salmonella, it is critical to maintain good hygiene after handling them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Salmonella can cause serious health issues if ingested, and washing your hands after coming in contact with the dragon or its habitat will help reduce this risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It’s especially important to take extra precautions when young children are around; they may not understand how to properly wash their hands and could accidentally spread germs from both themselves and the dragon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, those who have compromised immune systems or other underlying medical conditions should be wary of interacting with these reptiles as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fragile Compared To Others<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Bearded dragons need more attention and care than other pets. They\u2019re a little bit more fragile, so they can be prone to illnesses or injuries if not properly taken care of.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPotential Injury<\/th> Emotional Response<\/th><\/tr><\/thead> Broken bones<\/td> Frustration\/Sadness<\/td><\/tr> Mites<\/td> Revulsion\/Anger<\/td><\/tr> Malnutrition<\/td> Fear\/Worry<\/td><\/tr> Respiratory infection<\/td> Anxiety\/Panic<\/td><\/tr> Constipation & Impaction<\/td> Dread\/Sympathy<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThese potential health issues can cause pain for your bearded dragon and stress for you as its owner. Regular visits with the vet are essential, along with regular check-ups at home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Make sure you have all the necessary equipment on hand \u2013 such as an ultraviolet light bulb, thermometer, and calcium supplement \u2013 before bringing them into your house.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costly To Maintain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Bearded dragons can be expensive pets to maintain. They require a large enclosure and specialized lighting, heating, and humidity systems as well as certain dietary needs that must all be met in order for them to thrive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As we have said before, they need regular checkups at the vet and special supplements or medications may be necessary depending on their health status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Things you’ll need to spend money on include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nFood:<\/strong> Bearded dragons typically eat live insects like crickets, worms, roaches, etc., which will need to be regularly purchased. Vegetables should also be included in their diet.<\/li>\n\n\n\nSupplies:<\/strong> An appropriately sized habitat with proper decor so your beardie feels safe and secure is essential. You will also need substrate (for example sand or reptile carpet) along with hiding places and branches for climbing\/basking, basking lights, UVB bulbs, thermometers\/hygrometers, water dishes, and more.<\/li>\n\n\n\nMiscellaneous expenses:<\/strong> These can range from bedding material changes every couple of weeks to additional items such as vitamin powders or calcium supplements needed if there is a deficiency in their diet.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nYou Should Be Comfortable Around Live Insects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n If you are not the type of person who can handle critters crawling around, then owning a bearded dragon may be difficult. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It’s true that one might get used to it over time, but if keeping live insects in your home is too much for you to stomach, then this pet may not be suitable for you.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nBearded dragons need plenty of insect-based food items like crickets and mealworms; these creatures must also be fed alive or else they will die quickly after being ingested by the lizard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The thought of having to feed them their dinner could give many people quite the heebie-jeebies! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even with all the proper equipment, it still requires strong nerves to provide these tiny morsels on a daily basis \u2013 especially when they start hopping around everywhere. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So if bugs make you squeamish at first glance, getting a bearded dragon probably isn’t such a good idea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n At the end of the day, owning a bearded dragon is no small feat. It requires a lot of dedication and commitment to ensure that you are providing them with the best quality of life possible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The cons of having a bearded dragon can seem overwhelming at first, but if you love these animals as much as I do, then there\u2019s nothing quite like caring for one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The sheer joy I feel when my little buddy crawls onto my hand or comes up to greet me when I enter his enclosure cannot be described in words. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Watching him explore his tank and bask under his UVB light brings such peace to my soul. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even though he might not understand me per se, it’s clear from the behavior that he recognizes and appreciates my presence. He has become a part of our family now, and we wouldn’t have it any other way!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So sure, taking care of a bearded dragon isn’t always easy – but neither is parenting or marriage!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With patience and plenty of TLC (Tender Loving Care), this animal can bring unbelievable happiness into your home – just make sure you’re prepared to take on all the responsibilities beforehand.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Are you looking for a unique and exciting pet to bring into your home? If so, then a bearded dragon may be the perfect fit. But before bringing one of these creatures into your life, it’s important to consider all of the pros and cons that come along with owning a bearded dragon. In this […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":537,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_gspb_post_css":".gs-autolist{margin:15px 0 30px;border:1px solid #dddddd7d}.gs-autolist-item{padding:15px 15px 15px 5px;display:flex;align-items:center}.gs-autolist-title,.gs-autolist-title a{font-size:18px;line-height:24px;text-decoration:none}#gspb_toc-id-gsbp-f91ecbb9-7d9a .gs-autolist-item{background-color:#fff}#gspb_toc-id-gsbp-f91ecbb9-7d9a .gs-autolist-item:nth-child(2n){background-color:#eee}#gspb_toc-id-gsbp-f91ecbb9-7d9a .gs-autolist-title a{color:#000}#gspb_toc-id-gsbp-f91ecbb9-7d9a .gs-autolist-number{border-radius:50%;margin:0 20px 0 15px;text-align:center;font-weight:700;background-color:#3e0089;color:#fff;height:25px;line-height:25px;width:25px;font-size:16px;min-width:25px}.gs-box{padding:20px;border-left:5px solid transparent;margin-bottom:25px}.gs-box-text>p{margin-bottom:20px;margin-top:0}.gs-box-text>p:last-of-type{margin-bottom:0}.gs-box.info_type svg{fill:#30a030}.gs-box.blue_type{color:#31708f;background-color:#d9edf7;border-color:#bcdff1}.gs-box.info_type{color:#155724;background-color:#d4edda;border-color:#c3e6cb}.gs-box.icon_type{display:flex}.gs-box.icon_type .gs-box-icon{width:28px;min-width:28px}.gs-box.icon_type .gs-box-text{flex-grow:1;margin:0 15px}#gspb_infoBox-id-gsbp-2b5bf107-e439 .gs-box{background-color:#fafbfd}","footnotes":""},"categories":[16,1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/jeffreyyounggren.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/367"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/jeffreyyounggren.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/jeffreyyounggren.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jeffreyyounggren.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jeffreyyounggren.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=367"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/jeffreyyounggren.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/367\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11183,"href":"https:\/\/jeffreyyounggren.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/367\/revisions\/11183"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jeffreyyounggren.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/537"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/jeffreyyounggren.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=367"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jeffreyyounggren.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=367"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jeffreyyounggren.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=367"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}