How to Bathe Your Bearded Dragon: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Bearded dragons are popular pets for many reasons, including their interesting personalities and ease of care. However, as a beginner owner, you may be unsure of how to bathe your bearded dragon. Bathing is an important part of their routine as it helps keep them clean and hydrated, but it’s crucial to do it correctly to ensure their safety and comfort.

Why Do Bearded Dragons Need Baths?

Bearded dragons come from the arid regions of Australia, which means they need a dry environment to thrive. However, they do need to stay hydrated, and one way to achieve this is through bathing. Bathing also helps to keep your bearded dragon clean by removing any fecal matter or shed skin that can accumulate on their scales.

What You Need to Bath Your Bearded Dragon

• A shallow container, such as a plastic tub or sink, that your bearded dragon can comfortably fit in
• Water dechlorinator, to remove the harmful chemicals from tap water
• A thermometer, to ensure the temperature of the water is appropriate
• Towels, to dry your bearded dragon after the bath

How to Bathe Your Bearded Dragon

Follow these steps to ensure a safe and effective bath for your bearded dragon:

Step 1: Prepare the Bath

Fill a shallow container with lukewarm water, making sure it’s not too hot or too cold. Use a thermometer to check that the temperature is between 90 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the ideal temperature for a bearded dragon’s bath. Add a few drops of water dechlorinator to remove any harmful chemicals from tap water.

Step 2: Place Your Bearded Dragon in the Bath

Gently place your bearded dragon in the bath, making sure they can stand comfortably without being submerged. Be careful not to splash them as this may scare them and cause unnecessary stress. Keep an eye on your pet to ensure they are safe and not attempting to escape.

Step 3: Clean Your Bearded Dragon

Using a soft toothbrush or a sponge, gently clean your bearded dragon’s scales and skin. Focus on the areas where fecal matter and shed skin may have accumulated, such as around their vent and under their arms and legs. Be gentle and avoid scrubbing too hard or using any harsh soaps or shampoos.

Step 4: Dry Your Bearded Dragon

Use a towel to gently pat your bearded dragon dry. You can also use a hairdryer set on low and held at a safe distance to dry them more quickly. Make sure your bearded dragon is completely dry before returning them to their enclosure.

How Often to Bathe Your Bearded Dragon

How often you should bathe your bearded dragon depends on their individual needs. In general, it’s recommended to bathe them once a week or every two weeks. Avoid bathing them too frequently as it can dry out their skin and cause other health issues.

Conclusion

Bathing your bearded dragon is an essential part of their care routine, and it’s crucial to do it correctly to keep them clean, hydrated, and healthy. With these easy steps, you can provide a safe and effective bath for your bearded dragon, even as a beginner owner. Just remember to be gentle, use lukewarm water, and avoid using any harsh soaps or shampoos that can harm your pet.