Introduction

Bearded dragons are among the most popular reptile pets, and for good reason - they are docile, easy to care for, and fairly low-maintenance. However, because of their size and active nature, providing them with a comfortable living space can be tricky, especially for beginners who are new to reptile keeping. In this blog post, we will show you 10 creative DIY bearded dragon enclosure ideas that are perfect for beginners. These ideas are affordable, relatively easy to assemble, and provide ample space for your dragon to live and thrive.

1. Wooden Crates

Wooden crates make excellent bearded dragon enclosures, particularly for those on a tight budget. Crates can be stacked on top of each other to create a multi-level enclosure, and they can be customised with windows, doors, and other features that your dragon will love. You can purchase wooden crates from your local hardware store, or repurpose old ones that you may have laying around.

2. PVC Enclosure

PVC enclosures are a popular choice for many reptile keepers because of their durability, versatility, and ease of use. PVC sheets can be cut and molded into any shape or size, making them perfect for custom-built bearded dragon enclosures. Additionally, PVC is a non-toxic material that won’t harm your pet, and it’s easy to clean and maintain.

3. Bookshelf Enclosure

If you’re short on space, a bookshelf enclosure is an excellent option. This type of enclosure is built by converting an old bookshelf into a multi-level living space for your dragon. By removing shelves and adding custom features like a basking area and a hide box, you can create a comfortable and stimulating environment for your pet without taking up extra floor space.

4. Melamine Enclosure

Melamine is another popular material for DIY reptile enclosures. Melamine sheets are easy to cut and assemble, and they come in a variety of colours and patterns, making it easy to create a beautiful and functional enclosure for your dragon. Melamine is also durable, easy to clean, and non-toxic, making it a safe choice for your reptile.

5. Wire Mesh Enclosure

Wire mesh enclosures are easy to assemble, affordable, and provide excellent ventilation for your dragon. The wire mesh can be purchased at your local hardware store and cut to size, then assembled with zip ties or other fasteners. However, it’s important to make sure that the enclosure is safe for your pet by covering any sharp edges and ensuring that the mesh is not too wide or too small.

6. Aquarium Enclosure

An aquarium enclosure is a popular choice for bearded dragon owners, especially those who are new to reptile keeping. Aquariums are easy to find and purchase, and they provide excellent visibility for your pet. However, be aware that aquariums may not be the best choice for fully-grown bearded dragons, as they may outgrow the enclosure and require more space.

7. Custom Built Enclosure

For those who are handy and enjoy a good DIY project, a custom-built enclosure is the ultimate choice. A custom-built enclosure allows you to create a living space that is tailored specifically to your pet’s needs, personality, and preferences. However, this type of enclosure requires more time, effort, and resources than other options and may not be suitable for beginners.

8. Plastic Tub Enclosure

Plastic tub enclosures are an affordable and easy option for those who are new to reptile keeping. Plastic tubs can be purchased at most home goods stores, and they can be customised with windows, doors, and other features to make them more suitable for your pet. However, plastic tubs may not be the best choice for bearded dragons that require a lot of space, as they can be quite small.

9. Terrarium Enclosure

Terrarium enclosures are an excellent choice for bearded dragons that require a lot of space and love to climb. A terrarium is essentially a glass container that can range in size from small to very large, and it can be customised with a variety of features like basking spots, hide boxes, and even water features. However, terrariums can be expensive, heavy, and difficult to move around.

10. C&C Cage Enclosure

C&C cages are a popular choice among reptile keepers because of their versatility and affordability. C&C cages are essentially modular wire cages that can be assembled in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can be customised in many ways to suit your pet’s needs. However, as with wire mesh enclosures, it’s important to make sure that the enclosure is safe for your pet by covering any sharp edges and ensuring that the mesh is not too wide or too small.

Conclusion

There you have it - 10 creative DIY bearded dragon enclosure ideas for beginners. By using these ideas as inspiration, you can create a comfortable, stimulating, and safe living space for your bearded dragon without breaking the bank. Remember to always do your own research and consult with an experienced reptile veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health and well-being.