Introduction

Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that have recently become popular as pets. They are friendly, relatively easy to care for, and full of personality. One of the most common questions potential bearded dragon owners ask is how big they grow. This blog post aims to answer that question in detail, covering the size of fully grown bearded dragons, factors that can affect their growth, and tips for taking care of them.

How Big Do Bearded Dragons Get?

In general, bearded dragons grow to be between 18 and 24 inches long from nose to tail. However, males tend to be larger than females. Male bearded dragons can grow to be up to 24 inches long, while females average around 18 inches. This length includes their tail, which makes up about half of their total length.

When it comes to weight, fully grown male bearded dragons can weigh up to 600 grams, while females weigh around 400 grams. However, it’s important to note that every bearded dragon is different and can grow at different rates.

Factors That Affect Bearded Dragon Growth

There are several factors that can affect how big a bearded dragon grows. These include:

• Genetics: Some bearded dragons are genetically predisposed to be larger than others.
• Gender: As mentioned earlier, male bearded dragons are generally larger than females.
• Nutrition: Bearded dragons require a balanced diet that includes protein, vegetables, and fruits. A lack of proper nutrition can lead to stunted growth.
• Housing: Bearded dragons require a spacious enclosure that allows for movement and exercise. An enclosure that is too small can hinder growth.
• Temperature: Bearded dragons require a basking area that reaches 100-110 degrees Fahrenheit to properly digest food and grow. A lack of proper temperatures can slow growth or even lead to health problems.
• Health: Bearded dragons that suffer from health issues, such as parasites or illnesses, may not grow properly.

Taking Care of a Fully Grown Bearded Dragon

Proper care is essential for the health and well-being of your fully grown bearded dragon. Here are some tips:

Enclosure

Your bearded dragon’s enclosure should be at least 40 gallons in size, but bigger is always better. It should also have appropriate lighting and heating equipment to maintain proper temperatures.

Diet

Bearded dragons require a varied and balanced diet. Their diet should consist of:

• Insects such as crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches
• Vegetables such as kale, collard greens, and squash
• Fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, and mango

It’s important to avoid feeding your bearded dragon food that is too large, such as whole mice or chunks of meat. These can cause impaction, which can be fatal.

Hydration

A bowl of fresh water should always be available for your bearded dragon. In addition, you can mist them with a water bottle to help maintain proper hydration levels. However, do not mist them too much, as excess moisture can lead to respiratory issues.

Handling

Bearded dragons are generally friendly and enjoy being handled. However, it’s important to be gentle and avoid squeezing or dropping them. Always support their body and avoid picking them up by their tail.

Conclusion

In summary, fully grown male bearded dragons can grow up to 24 inches long, while females average around 18 inches. Factors such as genetics, nutrition, housing, temperature, and health can all affect their growth. Taking proper care of them, including providing a spacious enclosure, a balanced diet, and appropriate temperatures, is essential for their health and well-being. With the right care, your bearded dragon can live a long and healthy life by your side.