Pet Critique

Hi there, pet lovers! 🦎

Bearded dragons are one of the most beloved reptiles in the pet-keeping world, and for good reason. With their calm demeanor, fascinating behavior, and adorable personalities, they make a wonderful pet for both new and experienced reptile keepers. In this pet care article, we’ll explore why Bearded Dragons make such great pets, with pet expert tips to help you care for them properly. Here’s why they stand out:

Ease of Handling: 4/5

Bearded dragons are among the most handleable reptiles, making them perfect for beginners and children. They’re naturally calm, enjoy human interaction, and are content to sit on your shoulder or lap for extended periods. Their preference for climbing to higher vantage points adds to their charm. They are pretty hardy as well so they can handle a little bit of rough handling. Additionally, they don’t drop their tails like many other lizards, so there’s no fear of accidental harm during handling.

The only reason they didn’t score a perfect 5 is their potential to poop during handling. However, this issue is easily managed by giving them a quick bath before handling, as they tend to relieve themselves in water—a quirk that almost makes them feel potty-trained. Their claws are small and unlikely to cause harm, and bites are incredibly rare unless mistaken for food during feeding. Bearded dragons are social, gentle, and easy to handle, making them a joy to interact with.

Care and Maintenance: 3/5

While rewarding, caring for a bearded dragon requires a fair amount of commitment and effort. They are omnivores, meaning they need a balanced diet of live insects (like dubia roaches, crickets, and superworms) and fresh vegetables (such as mustard greens, collard greens, and kale). Variety is key to their health, and dietary supplements like calcium and vitamins are essential.

Proper lighting and heating are crucial. Bearded dragons need UVB bulbs to metabolize calcium and avoid metabolic bone disease, along with basking lights to maintain an ideal temperature gradient: 90–100°F in the basking area and 78–80°F ambient. Both bulbs need regular replacement, which can be costly. Their enclosures also require frequent cleaning to manage odor, as they do have a distinctive smell. While not overwhelming, this can be a consideration for those sensitive to scents.

Health and Durability: 4/5

Bearded dragons are hardy reptiles that tolerate beginner mistakes better than many other species. They’re resilient as long as their basic needs are met, including proper temperature, UV exposure, and diet. However, extreme temperatures or prolonged lack of UVB lighting can lead to serious health issues. They can also tolerate moderate handling by children, though supervision is always recommended.

The need for a spacious enclosure to provide a temperature gradient is a factor to consider, as small enclosures can make it difficult to regulate their environment. Overall, their forgiving nature makes them an excellent choice for first-time reptile owners.

Availability: 5/5

Bearded dragons are one of the most readily available pet reptiles. They’re found in nearly every pet store that sells reptiles and from countless breeders. Breeding programs have also resulted in a stunning variety of morphs, offering a range of colors, patterns, and textures. Whether you’re looking for a traditional bearded dragon or something more unique like a leatherback morph, there’s an option for every aesthetic preference.

Initial Costs: 3/5

While the initial purchase price of a bearded dragon is quite affordable, the cost of setting up their habitat can be significant. They require a large enclosure to accommodate their size and activity level, along with proper heating, UVB lighting, and decor to simulate their natural environment. High-quality setups, including thermostats and thermometers, can run several hundred dollars.

Ongoing costs include replacing UVB bulbs every 6–12 months and providing a steady supply of insects and fresh vegetables. While not the most expensive pet reptile to care for, their needs are more demanding than some other species, which keeps their score in this category from being higher.

Final Thoughts: 3.8/5

The bearded dragon is a fantastic pet for those willing to invest in their care. They’re incredibly social, hardy, and rewarding animals, with engaging personalities that quickly make them a favorite member of the household. While their care is more involved than some reptiles, the effort is well worth it for such a personable and interactive pet. If you’re ready to meet their needs, the bearded dragon is a wonderful companion that will bring years of joy.

Let us know if you think a bearded dragon is right for you in the comments below! We’d love to hear your pet care tips and stories. Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest pet reviews and expert advice on reptile care! 🦎