Do It Yourself Bearded Dragon Enclosure - The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

Are you a beginner looking to build a bearded dragon enclosure? Do you want to provide your bearded dragon with a comfortable living space while also saving some money? Look no further! This ultimate guide will take you through the steps to set up your own bearded dragon enclosure.

Why build a DIY bearded dragon enclosure?

Before we dive into the setup process, let’s talk about why you should consider building a DIY bearded dragon enclosure.

• Cost-effective: Building your own bearded dragon enclosure can save you a significant amount of money compared to buying one from a pet store.
• Customizable: DIY enclosures allow you to customize your setup to fit your bearded dragon’s specific needs.
• Bonding: Building an enclosure is a great bonding experience between you and your bearded dragon.
• Learning: You can learn new skills and gain knowledge about bearded dragons by building their enclosure.

Materials needed to build a bearded dragon enclosure

Here is a list of materials you will need to build your own bearded dragon enclosure:

• MDF or Plywood for the frame of the enclosure
• Glass or Plexiglas for the front of the enclosure
• Wood glue
• Silicone sealant
• Spray paint or wood stain
• Hinges and a door handle
• Heat lamp and UVB light bulbs
• Substrate (e.g. reptile carpet or paper towels)
• Climbing and basking spots (e.g. logs, rocks, branches, and hammocks)
• Water and food dishes

Step-by-step guide to build a bearded dragon enclosure

Now that you have all the materials, let’s start building your bearded dragon enclosure.

Step 1: Design your enclosure

The first step in building a bearded dragon enclosure is to design it. This is where you can get creative and make it your own.

Consider the size of your bearded dragon and how much space they need. A general rule of thumb is to have a minimum of 40 gallons for one adult bearded dragon.

You should also consider the temperature and humidity requirements for your bearded dragon’s enclosure. Research the ideal temperature range and set up a heat lamp and a UVB light bulb accordingly.

Pro tip: Plan your enclosure with easy cleaning in mind. Make sure you can remove all the accessories and substrate easily for cleaning purposes.

Step 2: Build the frame of the enclosure

Now that you have the design in mind, it’s time to build the frame of the enclosure using MDF or plywood.

Cut the wood to the desired size, making sure the dimensions are correct. Glue the pieces together using wood glue and reinforce the frame with screws or nails.

Step 3: Install the glass or plexiglass front

The front of the enclosure should be made of glass or plexiglass, which will allow you to view your bearded dragon and provide enough natural light for them.

Measure and cut the glass or plexiglass to fit the frame. Apply silicone sealant to the edges of the glass and press it into place. Allow the sealant to dry for at least 24 hours before handling the enclosure.

Step 4: Add the finishing touches

Now that you have the frame and front complete, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your bearded dragon’s enclosure.

Spray paint or stain the wood to give it a polished look. Install the hinges and a door handle to make it easy to access the enclosure. Add climbing and basking spots, water and food dishes, and a substrate.

Maintenance and cleaning

Cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your bearded dragon happy and healthy.

Here are some tips to keep your bearded dragon’s enclosure clean:

• Spot clean daily and replace the substrate once a week.
• Deep clean the enclosure once a month.
• Disinfect the water and food dishes daily.
• Replace the UVB light bulb every six months.
• Replace the heat lamp bulb every year.

Conclusion

Building a DIY bearded dragon enclosure can be a fun and rewarding experience for beginners. Not only is it cost-effective, but you can also customize it to fit your bearded dragon’s specific needs. Remember to plan and design the enclosure beforehand, use the right materials, and maintain and clean it regularly.