Introduction

Bearded dragons are one of the most popular pet reptiles all over the world. These majestic creatures are known for their unique appearance, gentle disposition, and relative ease of care. However, if you’re new to the world of bearded dragons, you might be wondering, how often should I handle my bearded dragon?

Handling is an important part of bonding with your pet and ensuring that they grow up to be comfortable and trusting around you. However, it’s equally important to make sure that you don’t overdo it and cause stress or harm to your pet.

Understanding Your Bearded Dragon’s Nature

Before we dive into how often you should handle your bearded dragon, it’s crucial to understand their nature as a species. Bearded dragons are desert reptiles, meaning they are accustomed to living in a harsh, arid environment. They have specific behavioral patterns, such as basking, hunting, and burrowing, that you’ll need to provide for in their captive environment.

Bearded dragons also have distinct personalities. While some may be more outgoing and enjoy handling, others may be introverted or shy. It’s essential to recognize and respect your bearded dragon’s behaviors and personality to ensure their health and wellbeing.

When to Start Handling Your Bearded Dragon

When it comes to handling bearded dragons, timing is everything. The best time to begin handling your pet is after they’ve settled into their new living environment for a week or two. This timeframe allows your bearded dragon to adjust to their new surroundings and feel comfortable in their new home.

Handling your bearded dragon too early or too frequently can cause them significant stress and impact their health. Make sure that you give them enough time to get used to their environment and establish a routine before handling them.

How Often Should You Handle Your Bearded Dragon?

When it comes to handling your bearded dragon, less is often more. Overhandling your pet can cause them undue stress, leading to health problems down the line. The general rule of thumb for bearded dragon handling is to start slowly and gradually increase the frequency as your pet becomes more comfortable.

As a beginner, you should aim to handle your dragon once or twice a day for no more than ten minutes at a time. However, remember that every bearded dragon is unique, and yours may need more or less handling depending on their personality and behavior.

It’s also essential to recognize when your bearded dragon is stressed or uncomfortable during handling. Signs of stress can include puffing up their beard, hissing, or trying to run away. If your pet displays these behaviors during handling, it’s best to stop and give them time to relax before trying again.

Tips for Safe and Comfortable Handling

When handling your bearded dragon, there are a few essential tips to keep in mind to ensure their safety and comfort. These include:

• Always wash your hands before handling your pet to avoid transferring harmful bacteria or oils to their skin.
• Support your pet’s entire body during handling to prevent stress or injury.
• Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that can startle your pet and cause undue stress.
• Make sure your pet has a comfortable grip on your hand or arm and are not scraping or digging their claws into your skin.
• Never grab your pet by the tail or any other body part, as this can cause significant injury.

Conclusion

Handling your bearded dragon is an essential part of bonding with your pet and ensuring their comfort and health. By understanding their behavior, establishing a routine, and approaching handling with care, you can create a happy and healthy relationship with your pet that will last a lifetime.