Introduction

As a bearded dragon owner, you want to ensure that your pet gets a nutritious and balanced diet. While commercial food pellets are a great staple for your bearded dragon, treats can add variety and excitement to their diet. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best bearded dragon treats that are healthy and easy to make at home.

Benefits of Treats for Bearded Dragons

Treating your bearded dragon has several benefits, such as:

• Bonding with your pet: Hand feeding your bearded dragon treats can help build trust and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.
• Prevention of boredom: Providing treats can help relieve boredom and provide mental stimulation for your bearded dragon.
• Variety of nutrients: Different treats offer different nutrients that may be missing from the commercial pellet diet.
• Training and conditioning: Giving treats as a reward can help train your bearded dragon and teach them good behavior.
• Encouraging hydration: Some treats, like fruits and vegetables, have a high water content that can help keep your bearded dragon hydrated.

Commercial vs. Homemade Treats

While commercial treats for bearded dragons are available in the market, it is best to opt for homemade treats as they are healthier and cheaper. Commercial treats often contain preservatives and are high in sugar or fat, which can impact your bearded dragon’s overall health. Homemade treats, on the other hand, are made with fresh and wholesome ingredients, and you can control the amount and type of treat you give in accordance with your bearded dragon’s diet and health.

10 Best Homemade Bearded Dragon Treats

Here are some of the best bearded dragon treats that are healthy and easy to make at home:

1. Berries

Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are a great source of vitamins and antioxidants that can promote good health in your bearded dragon. Wash and cut the berries into small pieces, and feed in moderation, as they are high in sugar.

2. Kale Chips

Kale is an excellent source of calcium and other nutrients that can benefit your bearded dragon’s health. Preheat the oven to 350°F and tear the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces. Coat with olive oil and bake for 10-15 minutes, until crispy. Allow it to cool before feeding.

3. Squash Fries

Squash is another food item that is loaded with nutrients like vitamin A, potassium, and fiber, that is essential to your bearded dragon’s diet. Cut the squash into small sticks or wedges and toss with a little bit of olive oil. Roast in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and crispy on the outside. Allow it to cool before feeding.

4. Green Beans

Green beans are an excellent source of fiber, and vitamins such as A, C and K. Wash and chop the green beans into small pieces before feeding.

5. Diced Carrots

Carrots are a great source of fiber and vitamin A that can benefit your bearded dragon’s health. Slice the carrots into small pieces that are easy for your pet to eat.

6. Apples

Apples are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants that can benefit your bearded dragon’s health. Cut the apples into small pieces, and remove the seeds before feeding, as they contain cyanide, which is toxic to bearded dragons.

7. Hard-Boiled Eggs

Eggs are an excellent source of protein and can benefit your bearded dragon’s growth and development. Hard-boil an egg, cool it, and chop it into small pieces before feeding.

8. Freeze-Dried Crickets

Freeze-dried crickets are a great source of protein, and can add variety to your bearded dragon’s diet. Ensure that you purchase from a trusted and reputable seller, and feed in moderation, as they are high in fat.

9. Mealworms

Mealworms are another excellent source of protein but are also high in fat. Feed in moderation, and ensure that they are live or fresh, as canned or stored mealworms can contain bacteria and be harmful to your bearded dragon’s health.

10. Pinkie Mice

Pinkie mice are a natural source of protein and fats that can benefit your bearded dragon’s diet. Feed in moderation, and ensure that you purchase from a trusted and reputable seller, as they can contain parasites or diseases.

Conclusion

Treats can be an excellent addition to your bearded dragon’s diet, but they should be given in moderation, and their nutritive value taken into consideration. Homemade treats offer several benefits over commercial treats, and they are easy to make and cost-effective. With the different treat options mentioned in this blog post, you can provide your bearded dragon with a variety of delicious and nutritious treats that will benefit its overall health and well-being.