Can a Baby Bearded Dragon Live in a 10 Gallon Tank?

So, you’ve decided to bring home a baby bearded dragon. And now you’re wondering if a 10 gallon tank is good enough for them. The short answer is no. In fact, a 10 gallon tank is too small for even the tiniest hatchlings. But before you get disheartened, let’s take a closer look at why that is and what you can do about it.

Why a 10 Gallon Tank is Too Small for a Baby Bearded Dragon?

Bearded dragons are active reptiles that require a lot of space to move, explore, bask, and generally live their best life. A 10 gallon tank is barely enough space for a juvenile bearded dragon, let alone a baby. Here are some of the reasons why a 10 gallon tank is too small for a baby bearded dragon:

• Bearded dragons can grow up to 24 inches in length, and a 10 gallon tank cannot accommodate their adult size.
• Bearded dragons require a temperature gradient in their enclosure, which means they need different temperature zones to regulate their body temperature, and a 10 gallon tank does not offer enough room for that.
• Bearded dragons need a UVB light source for proper bone development, and a 10 gallon tank cannot provide adequate UVB exposure to the entire enclosure.
• Bearded dragons produce a lot of waste, which needs to be cleaned regularly, and a 10 gallon tank can quickly become overcrowded and unsanitary.

What Size Tank Does a Baby Bearded Dragon Need?

The general rule of thumb is that a baby bearded dragon needs at least a 20 gallon tank. However, that’s the minimum. In reality, the more space you can provide for your bearded dragon, the better. A larger tank means more opportunities for exercise, exploration, and mental stimulation. And let’s not forget that a larger tank is also easier to maintain as it reduces the frequency of cleanups.

What are the Best Enclosures for Baby Bearded Dragons?

When it comes to bearded dragon enclosures, bigger is always better. Here are some of the best options to consider for your baby bearded dragon:

• 20 gallon long tank - this is the minimum tank size recommended for a baby bearded dragon. A 20 gallon long tank measures 30 inches long x 12 inches wide x 12 inches tall.
• 40 gallon breeder tank - this is the ideal tank size for a baby bearded dragon. A 40 gallon breeder tank measures 36 inches long x 18 inches wide x 16 inches tall. It provides ample space for a bearded dragon to grow and explore while accommodating a temperature gradient, UVB light, and other accessories.
• PVC reptile enclosure - PVC enclosures are lightweight, easy to clean, and customizable. They provide excellent insulation, which makes them great for maintaining temperature and humidity. A PVC enclosure measuring at least 48 inches long x 24 inches wide x 24 inches tall is suitable for a baby bearded dragon.
• Custom-built wooden enclosure - if you have the skills and tools to build your own enclosure, a wooden enclosure can be a great option. It’s durable, provides ample space, and can be customized to your liking. However, wooden enclosures require more maintenance and can be more difficult to clean.

What Else Does a Baby Bearded Dragon Need in their Enclosure?

Aside from the enclosure itself, here are some other essential items that a baby bearded dragon needs for optimal health and well-being:

• Heating and lighting - bearded dragons require a basking spot temperature of 100-110°F and a cool spot temperature of 80-85°F. They also need a UVB light source for 10-12 hours a day to help with calcium absorption and prevent metabolic bone disease.
• Substrate - a substrate is the material at the bottom of the enclosure that captures waste and allows for natural behavior like digging and burrowing. Suitable substrates for baby bearded dragons include reptile carpet, paper towels, newspapers, or tiles. Avoid loose substrates like sand, gravel, or crushed walnut shells as they can cause impaction or respiratory issues.
• Accessories - provide your baby bearded dragon with a hide box or two for privacy, a basking platform or rock, a branch or decoration for climbing, and a water dish for drinking and soaking.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, a 10 gallon tank is not suitable for a baby bearded dragon. Providing your bearded dragon with an appropriate enclosure is essential for their health, happiness, and longevity. A 20 gallon long tank is the minimum recommend size for a baby bearded dragon, but a larger enclosure, such as a 40 gallon breeder tank or custom-built PVC enclosure, is even better. Remember to provide your baby bearded dragon with adequate heating and lighting, safe substrate, and accessories for enrichment. With the right care and environment, your baby bearded dragon will thrive and become a cherished pet in your family for years to come.