Bearded dragons have been a beloved household pet since they first made their appearance in the reptile scene. With their friendly demeanor, long lifespan, and unique appearance, they’re a popular choice for families seeking a low-maintenance pet that can offer companionship for years to come. However, there are several pros and cons to owning a bearded dragon that any potential owner should consider before taking the plunge.
The Pros
1. They’re not smelly
One of the biggest advantages of owning a bearded dragon is that they are not smelly animals. Unlike dogs, cats, and other household pets, beardies tend to produce minimal irritants even when their environment is kept clean. Any smells produced by a bearded dragon will stay confined to their tank, making them a great option for those who live in small or shared spaces.
2. They’re docile
Bearded dragons have a great temperament and are known for their calm and friendly personalities. The majority of beardies are easygoing, and enjoy human companionship. They’re rarely skittish and don’t mind being held by their human family members. Many bearded dragon owners love that their pets are so sociable and enjoy being a part of their daily lives.
3. They don’t need to be kept in pairs
Many exotic animals, such as guinea pigs, rabbits, and chinchillas, require companionship in order to be happy pets. Bearded dragons, on the other hand, are solitary creatures that prefer to live alone and generally become territorial if forced to share their space. This means that you don’t need to adopt two beardies to keep your pet happy.
4. They’re quiet
Noise sensitivity is a problem for many households, especially those with sound-sensitive neighbors or roommates. Fortunately, bearded dragons are very quiet pets that don’t make much noise. They may hiss if provoked, but even that sound is not loud enough to cause any disturbance.
5. They’re easy to handle
Bearded dragons are small- to medium-sized lizards that are easy to manage and handle. They’re great for first-time lizard owners who are just getting started with reptile care. With proper handling and socialization, beardies can get used to coming out of their tanks and hanging out with their human family members.
6. They come in a variety of colors and morphs
While many people think bearded dragons are brown or tan lizards, they come in a wide array of colors and morphs. There are red, gray, and orange beardies, as well as leatherback (smooth back), translucent (see-through spikes and scales), silkback (no spikes), and paradox (blotches of bright colors) morphs.
7. They’re affordable
Bearded dragons are affordable pets that are available in many pet stores. Most pet store beardies will run you about $50 to $150, making them an accessible option for many families. You should expect to pay more if you’re interested in adopting a rare morph.
8. They have long lifespans
Bearded dragons can live 10 years or more in captivity with proper care and husbandry. In fact, the oldest known beardie lived to be 18 years old! With the right care and attention, you can have a companion for years to come.
9. They look cool
Owning a bearded dragon is like having your very own pet dinosaur. You’ll love watching them puff up their beards and bask in their tank.
The Cons
1. They need a lot of space
While bearded dragons are smaller than some other reptile species, they can still grow to be between one and two feet long. This means that they require plenty of space and a spacious tank to accommodate their size and other supplies. The minimum recommended enclosure size is 48 inches x 24 inches x 24 inches, but many sources suggest going above and beyond this requirement.
2. They’re expensive
While bearded dragons are an affordable pet to adopt, securing the supplies you’ll need to house and keep your reptile happy can add up quickly. A high-quality enclosure in the appropriate size can run you several hundred dollars, and you’ll also need proper lighting equipment to house your reptile’s bulbs. New reptile owners should avoid buying start-up kits as the included tanks are often too small and the lighting equipment inadequate.
3. They have specific habitat requirements
Bearded dragons are originally from the deserts of Australia, which means that they require plenty of light (full spectrum UVA/UVB) and warmth (a basking lamp) and low humidity in their habitats. Without the appropriate lighting and temperature conditions, your bearded dragon could develop serious health problems like metabolic bone disease. Be prepared to monitor the temperature and humidity inside the enclosure and familiarize yourself with the proper care instructions.
4. They eat live insects
Bearded dragons are omnivorous, which means that they’ll consume a lot of vegetables and insects. Appropriate animal-based protein sources include Dubia roaches, mealworms, and crickets. Juvenile beardies can eat up to 80 crickets in a single day, so be prepared to refill their food supply often.
5. They hibernate
Bearded dragons enter a hibernation-like state known as brumation during the year’s colder months. This means that you will need to monitor your pet carefully during this time to ensure they remain healthy. Many common signs of brumation can also be signs of health issues, so pay close attention to your pet’s behavior and physical health.
Wrapping Up
Bearded dragons can make great pets for the right kind of owner. If you’re willing to go the extra mile to care for your pet’s specific needs, you’ll have a companion that will offer years of love and joy. However, potential owners should be aware of the cost of supplies and the specific requirements needed to ensure their bearded dragon lives a long, happy life.
