Introduction

So, you’ve decided to get a bearded dragon as your new pet, congratulations! They are great reptiles to keep as pets because of their gentle and friendly nature. However, before you bring one home, you need to understand their basic needs including the appropriate tank size. In this blog post, we will guide you on how big of a tank you need for your bearded dragon and everything else you need to know as a beginner.

What is a Bearded Dragon?

Bearded dragons, also known as Pogona, are a type of reptile that are native to Australia. They are a popular choice as pets because of their calm and docile nature, and their ability to recognize their owners. They are known for their characteristic ‘beard’, which is a pouch of skin under their throat that they can puff out to look bigger or as a sign of aggression.

Why is Tank Size Important for Bearded Dragons?

As a beginner, it is important to understand that bearded dragons are active reptiles that require a lot of space to move around and explore. The tank size you provide will directly impact the physical and mental health of your pet. If the tank is too small, your bearded dragon may experience stress, which can lead to health problems such as obesity and a weaker immune system.

How Big of a Tank do You Need for a Bearded Dragon?

The general rule of thumb for a bearded dragon tank size is that it should be at least 40 gallons for a young or juvenile bearded dragon, and at least 75 gallons for an adult bearded dragon. However, keep in mind that this is the minimum size and larger tanks are always better.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Tank Size

The Size of Your Bearded Dragon

The size of your bearded dragon should be a major factor to consider when selecting the right tank size. Bearded dragons can grow up to 24 inches in length, so you need to ensure that the tank is large enough to accommodate their size. If you have a young bearded dragon, they will grow rapidly, so you will need to account for their future size when selecting a tank.

The Number of Bearded Dragons

If you plan on having multiple bearded dragons in the same tank, you will need to ensure that the tank is large enough to accommodate all of them. Each bearded dragon needs their own space to explore, bask, and eat. A general rule of thumb is that you need to add 10 gallons for each additional bearded dragon to the tank size.

The Layout of the Tank

The layout of the tank can also impact the appropriate tank size for your bearded dragon. Bearded dragons require space to bask, hide, and climb. You will need to add accessories to your tank such as basking rocks and branches for your bearded dragon to climb on. All these require space, so you will need to account for them when selecting the right tank size.

Other Things to Consider

The Tank Material

The tank material should also be a consideration when selecting the right tank size. Glass tanks are the most common for bearded dragons, but they can also be made of plastic or wood. Glass tanks are great because they allow for better viewing and will not block UVB rays, but they are also prone to cracks and breaks. Plastic and wooden tanks are durable but may not be suitable for larger tanks.

The Heating and Lighting in the Tank

Bearded dragons require heat and lighting to survive, and you need to ensure that you have the appropriate setup in the tank. You will need a basking light to provide heat to the tank, and a UVB bulb to provide the necessary lighting. The tank size will also impact the type of lighting and heating you need. More space may require more lights and heaters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the appropriate tank size for your bearded dragon is crucial to their overall health and happiness. A larger tank is always better, and you need to consider factors such as the size of your bearded dragon, the number of bearded dragons you plan to have, and the layout of the tank. Once you have the appropriate tank size, you can start accessorizing it with basking rocks, branches, and other items to promote a healthy and stimulating environment for your bearded dragon. Happy pet parenting!