Why is an Enclosure Important for Your Pygmy Bearded Dragon?

Pygmy bearded dragons are popular pets due to their small size, calm temperament, and ease of care. However, creating the perfect enclosure for them is crucial to their health, happiness, and survival. A proper enclosure provides a safe and comfortable living space for your pet, mimics their natural habitat, and allows them to exhibit their natural behaviors.

Choosing the Right Size of Enclosure

The size of your pygmy bearded dragon enclosure depends on the size of your pet, the number of pets, and the amount of space available in your home. Generally, a single pygmy bearded dragon requires a minimum of a 20-gallon enclosure. If you have more than one pygmy bearded dragon, you will need a larger enclosure to accommodate them. It is essential to ensure that the enclosure is big enough to allow your pet to move around and stretch its legs adequately.

Selecting the Right Type of Enclosure

The type of enclosure you choose for your pygmy bearded dragon also plays a critical role in their overall wellbeing. A few popular options are:

• Glass Terrarium: Glass terrariums are the most common type of enclosure for pygmy bearded dragons. They come in various shapes, sizes and are easy to clean and maintain. One of the downsides of a glass terrarium is it traps humidity, which can be harmful to your pet if it isn’t ventilated correctly.
• Plastic Tub: Plastic tubs are an affordable option for an enclosure. They are easy to clean and provide proper ventilation for your pet. However, they don’t look as attractive as glass terrariums.
• Mesh Terrarium: Mesh terrariums also called screen cages, are a great option for providing ventilation to your pet. They are lightweight, easy to clean, and come in various sizes. However, they might not be as sturdy as other types of enclosures.

Setting Up the Enclosure

Once you have selected the right size and type of enclosure, it’s time to set it up for your pygmy bearded dragon. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Substrate

Make sure the substrate you use is safe for your pet and helps maintain the right level of humidity. Avoid substrates like sand or wood chips, as they can cause digestive issues if ingested. Good options are reptile carpet, paper towels, or newspaper.

Lighting and Heating

Pygmy bearded dragons require a certain amount of UVB and UVA light and heat to stay healthy. Install a heat lamp and a UVB bulb in the enclosure. Make sure the temperature in the basking area is around 95℉, and the cooler side of the enclosure is around 75℉.

Decorations

Decorations in the enclosure not only make it look appealing but also create a more comfortable and stimulating environment for your pet. Provide hiding spots, climbing branches or vines, and basking spots for your pet to exhibit natural behaviors.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular cleaning and maintenance of the enclosure are essential to keep your pet healthy and happy. Remove any uneaten food, clean the water dish, and spot clean the substrate daily. Replace the substrate every few weeks completely.

Conclusion

Creating the perfect enclosure for your pygmy bearded dragon requires a bit of effort and commitment but pays off in their health and happiness. Make sure to select the right size and type of enclosure, set it up correctly, and maintain it regularly. Following these tips will ensure that your pygmy bearded dragon will thrive in their new home!