Can Bearded Dragons and Dogs Share a Home?

Bearded dragons are an increasingly popular pet for beginner pet owners, but adding a bearded dragon to a home that already has a pet dog can be tricky. As natural predators, dogs may view bearded dragons as prey - but with some preparation and patience from their owners, it’s definitely possible for these two pets to coexist peacefully. In this guide, we’ll give you the tips and tricks you need to make your bearded dragon and dog comfortable and happy in the same home.

Introducing a Bearded Dragon and Dog to Each Other

Before you even bring your bearded dragon home, it’s important to prepare your dog for the new addition to your household. Here’s how to do it:

• Teach your dog basic obedience commands like “sit” and “stay”.
• Introduce your dog to other pets in a controlled environment, like a dog park or obedience class.
• Use positive reinforcement like treats or playtime when your dog behaves well around other pets.
• Be patient - it may take some time for your dog to adjust to a new pet in their home.

Once your dog is comfortable around other pets, it’s time to start introducing them to your new bearded dragon. Here’s how to do it:

• Put your bearded dragon in their enclosure and let your dog sniff around the perimeter.
• Supervise your dog’s interactions with your bearded dragon closely, especially in the first few days.
• Use positive reinforcement like treats or playtime when your dog behaves well around your bearded dragon.
• Be patient - it may take some time for your dog and bearded dragon to adjust to each other.

Keeping Your Bearded Dragon Safe from Your Dog

Even if your dog and bearded dragon seem to get along, it’s important to take steps to keep your bearded dragon safe from your dog. Here are some tips:

• Always supervise your dog’s interactions with your bearded dragon.
• Never let your dog unsupervised in the same room as your bearded dragon.
• Make sure your bearded dragon’s enclosure is secure and out of your dog’s reach.
• Keep your dog’s food and water away from your bearded dragon’s enclosure.
• Be aware of your dog’s body language and intervene if you sense any aggression towards your bearded dragon.

Keeping Your Dog Happy with a Bearded Dragon in the Home

While it’s important to keep your bearded dragon safe, it’s also important to make sure your dog is happy and well-adjusted to having a new pet in the home. Here are some tips:

• Give your dog plenty of attention and playtime to ensure they don’t feel neglected.
• Create a space for your dog where they can retreat to if they need some alone time from your bearded dragon.
• Make sure your dog still gets plenty of exercise and outdoor time.
• Keep your bearded dragon’s enclosure clean and odor-free to prevent any discomfort for your dog.
• Be patient - it may take some time for both your dog and bearded dragon to adjust to each other.

Conclusion

Adding a bearded dragon to a home with a dog may seem daunting at first, but with some preparation and patience, it’s definitely possible to create a happy home for both pets. By following our tips and tricks, you’ll be able to ensure both your dog and bearded dragon are comfortable and safe in the same household. Happy pet owning!