Bearded dragons, often referred to as bearded lizards, are one of the most popular reptile pets around the world. Their friendly nature, low-maintenance care requirements, and manageable size make them a perfect choice for first-time reptile buyers. If you’re considering adding a bearded lizard to your family, there are several key factors to consider to ensure that you select a healthy, happy dragon and provide the best possible care.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about buying a bearded lizard, including where to find them for sale, what to look for when choosing one, how to prepare your home, and important care tips for first-time reptile buyers.
1. Why Choose a Bearded Lizard as Your First Reptile?
Bearded dragons are an excellent choice for beginners due to their calm temperament, manageable size, and ease of care. Here are a few reasons why they are ideal pets for first-time reptile owners:
- Friendly and Tolerant: Bearded dragons are known for being docile and easy to handle. Unlike some reptiles that are more prone to stress or aggression when handled, bearded dragons often enjoy human interaction and can develop strong bonds with their owners.
- Relatively Low Maintenance: Bearded dragons require a relatively low level of care compared to other reptiles. They have simple diet and habitat needs that are easy to meet with the right preparation.
- Long Lifespan: Bearded dragons typically live 10 to 15 years, making them a long-term companion that you can enjoy for many years if you care for them properly.
- Manageable Size: Bearded dragons typically grow to 18-24 inches in length, which is a manageable size for most homes. They don’t require the large, elaborate enclosures that some other reptiles do.
2. Where to Find Bearded Lizards for Sale
The first step in getting a bearded dragon is finding a reputable place to buy one. Bearded lizards are available from a variety of sources, including breeders, pet stores, and online sellers. When buying any reptile, it’s essential to ensure that the seller is reputable and prioritizes the health and well-being of their animals.
Breeders
Buying from a responsible breeder is often the best option for first-time reptile buyers. Reputable breeders typically specialize in breeding healthy and well-socialized bearded dragons. They can provide you with information about the lizard’s genetics, lineage, and care history, ensuring you’re getting a healthy animal. If you choose to purchase from a breeder, be sure to:
- Ask questions about the bearded dragon’s health and diet.
- Ensure that the breeder provides a clean and safe environment for the reptiles.
- Check if the breeder offers any health guarantees or return policies.
Pet Stores
Reputable pet stores that specialize in reptiles are another common place to purchase bearded lizards. While some pet stores prioritize the health of their animals, others may not have the same standards, so it’s essential to do your research before purchasing. When visiting a pet store:
- Inspect the bearded dragons for signs of good health (clear eyes, no signs of skin problems, etc.).
- Ask about the care and feeding practices the store uses to maintain their reptiles.
- Check the store’s reputation by reading reviews or asking other reptile owners for recommendations.
Online Sellers
Buying a bearded dragon online is also an option, but it comes with some additional risks. Online sellers may not always offer the same opportunity to inspect the animal in person before purchase. However, some reputable online breeders and pet stores ship bearded dragons to your home with proper care and shipping protocols. When buying online:
- Only buy from trusted, established breeders or pet stores with good reviews.
- Ensure the seller provides a health guarantee and allows for a vet check before shipping.
- Ask for detailed photos and information about the bearded dragon before making the purchase.
3. What to Look for When Buying a Bearded Lizard
As a first-time reptile buyer, there are several things to look for when choosing a bearded dragon to ensure it is healthy and well-suited for your home.
Age and Size
Bearded dragons come in various ages, from hatchlings to adults, and choosing the right age depends on your preferences and experience level.
- Hatchlings (under 4 inches): While hatchlings can be more fragile and require more care, they offer the opportunity to raise the dragon from the start and bond with them as they grow. They are also more active and curious, which can be fun to watch. However, they need more frequent feedings and can be more sensitive to environmental changes.
- Juveniles (4-12 inches): Juveniles are often the best choice for first-time buyers. They are generally easier to care for than hatchlings, requiring less frequent feedings and being more resilient. Juveniles are also more adaptable to their new environment and usually settle in quicker than hatchlings.
- Adults (12+ inches): Adults are generally easier to care for, requiring fewer feedings and less attention than younger dragons. However, they are also larger, and you’ll need to make sure you have a suitable-sized enclosure. Adult bearded dragons also have established temperaments, so they may not bond as easily with new owners as juveniles or hatchlings.
Signs of Good Health
When purchasing a bearded lizard for sale, it’s essential to check for signs of good health. A healthy bearded dragon should have:
- Clear, Bright Eyes: The eyes should be bright and clear, with no discharge or swelling.
- Smooth Skin: Look for smooth, tight skin. Excessively wrinkled or loose skin may indicate dehydration or illness.
- Active Behavior: A healthy bearded dragon should be alert and active. If the dragon appears lethargic, stressed, or unusually still, it may be a sign of health issues.
- Healthy Appetite: Bearded dragons are known for their appetite. A healthy dragon should show interest in food, whether it’s insects or leafy greens.
- No Visible Injuries or Wounds: Inspect the bearded dragon for cuts, open sores, or signs of infection. Ensure that the dragon’s limbs, tail, and body are intact and functioning normally.
Behavior and Temperament
Bearded dragons are known for their docile and curious nature, but their behavior can vary based on age and personality. When selecting a bearded lizard, observe its behavior:
- Does it appear calm and relaxed when handled, or does it seem overly stressed or aggressive?
- Is it curious about its surroundings or does it hide away constantly?
While some dragons may take time to acclimate to new surroundings, others are naturally more confident and comfortable being handled. Ensure that you’re prepared for the level of interaction the bearded dragon enjoys.
4. Setting Up Your Home for a Bearded Dragon
Once you’ve found and purchased a healthy bearded dragon, the next step is to prepare your home for its arrival. Bearded lizards require a suitable habitat to thrive, so it’s crucial to set up their environment before bringing them home.
Choosing the Right Tank Size
A bearded dragon needs plenty of space to roam and explore. For a juvenile bearded dragon, a 20-gallon tank is usually sufficient, but as they grow, they will need more space. For adult bearded dragons, a 40-gallon tank is the minimum recommended size, though larger tanks are always better.
Heating and Lighting
Bearded dragons require a temperature gradient in their tank to regulate their body heat. The basking area should reach temperatures of 100-110°F (38-43°C), while the cooler area should be around 75-80°F (24-27°C). Use a heat lamp to create the basking area and a ceramic heat emitter or other reliable heat sources for the cooler side of the tank.
UVB lighting is essential for bearded dragons, as it helps them metabolize calcium and maintain healthy bones. Make sure to provide UVB light for 10-12 hours a day.
Substrate and Hiding Spots
For substrate, you can use reptile carpet, tile, or paper towels, as these are easy to clean and safe for the dragon. Avoid using sand, as it can cause impaction if ingested. Bearded dragons also appreciate hiding spots and climbing areas in their enclosures, so include rocks, logs, or branches for enrichment.
5. Feeding Your Bearded Dragon
Feeding a bearded dragon is relatively straightforward but requires a balanced diet. Bearded dragons are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant material and insects. Some food options include:
- Insects: Crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms, and waxworms are all excellent sources of protein. Be sure to feed your dragon gut-loaded (well-fed) insects and avoid overfeeding.
- Vegetables: Leafy greens such as collard greens, dandelion greens, and mustard greens are ideal. Squash, bell peppers, and carrots can also be offered occasionally.
- Fruits: Fruits should be fed in moderation and can include strawberries, blueberries, melon, and apples.
Bearded dragons also need calcium and vitamin D3 supplements to maintain healthy bones. Dust their food with calcium powder 2-3 times a week and offer a multivitamin once a week.
6. Long-Term Care and Maintenance
Once your bearded dragon is home and settled, ongoing care and maintenance are essential to ensure that your pet stays healthy and happy. Regularly clean the tank, monitor the temperature, and ensure that your dragon is eating a balanced diet. Handling your bearded dragon for short periods each day will also help build trust and ensure a bond.
Conclusion
Purchasing a bearded lizard for sale can be an exciting and rewarding experience for first-time reptile buyers. By doing thorough research, choosing a reputable source, selecting a healthy dragon, and setting up a proper habitat, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a responsible bearded dragon owner. With their friendly nature, manageable size, and unique personality, bearded dragons can be a lifelong companion that brings joy to your home for years to come.
