10 High-Protein Foods for Your Bearded Dragon

Bearded dragons are popular pets for good reason: they are friendly, easy to care for, and make great companions. However, it’s essential to ensure that your bearded dragon receives a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs, which include a healthy dose of protein. In this article, we’ll explore ten high-protein foods that you can add to your bearded dragon’s diet to keep them healthy and happy.

1. Crickets

Crickets are a staple source of protein for many reptile owners, and bearded dragons are no exception. These crunchy insects are an excellent source of protein and also provide fiber and some essential minerals for your pet. Be sure to dust your crickets with a calcium and vitamin D supplement before feeding them to your bearded dragon.

2. Dubia Roaches

Dubia roaches are another common protein source for bearded dragons. They are high in protein and low in fat, making them an ideal addition to your pet’s diet. If you’re squeamish about handling roaches, you can also find them pre-packaged at many pet stores.

3. Mealworms

Mealworms are another popular food for bearded dragons. While they are an excellent source of protein, they are also relatively high in fat, so be sure to feed them in moderation.

4. Silk Worms

Silk worms are a lesser-known food for bearded dragons, but they are an excellent option for adding variety to your pet’s diet. They are high in protein and low in fat, making them a healthy addition to your pet’s meals.

5. Superworms

Superworms are larger and meatier than mealworms and are a good source of protein for bearded dragons, but they are also high in fat. Feed them in moderation as an occasional treat, rather than a regular part of your pet’s diet.

6. Grasshoppers

Grasshoppers are another insect that can provide a good source of protein for bearded dragons. They are also high in calcium, which is essential for your pet’s bone health. You may also be able to find grasshoppers in your backyard or a nearby field.

7. Hornworms

Hornworms are a popular food for bearded dragons and other reptiles. They are high in protein and also contain a lot of moisture, making them an excellent choice for hydration in addition to nutrition.

8. Red Wigglers

Red wigglers are a type of worm that you can feed to your bearded dragon for protein. They are not as high in protein as some of the other foods on this list, but they are still a good source of nutrition and can help provide variety in your pet’s diet.

9. Pinky Mice

While some bearded dragon owners may shy away from feeding their pets mice, they are an excellent source of protein for your pet. Pinky mice are young mice that have not developed fur and are an appropriate size for bearded dragons. However, they should only be fed as an occasional treat and not as a regular part of your pet’s diet.

10. Cooked Chicken or Fish

While most of your bearded dragon’s protein should come from insects, you can also feed them cooked chicken or fish as a treat. Make sure to remove any bones and only give them small amounts of cooked meat.

Conclusion

Insects should make up the bulk of your bearded dragon’s protein intake, but it’s also essential to provide variety in their diet to keep them healthy and happy. Try incorporating some of these high-protein foods into your pet’s meals to ensure they are getting the nutrition they need.