Introduction to the Proper Diet for your 8 Month Old Bearded Dragon

As a beginner owner of a bearded dragon, it’s essential to understand the importance of a well-balanced diet for your 8 month old bearded dragon. Providing the right type and amount of food will not only contribute to their growth and development but will also prolong their lifespan. In this post, we will discuss the ideal diet and feeding schedule for your pet reptile.

What to Feed Your 8 Month Old Bearded Dragon

Bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they eat both plant and animal-based foods. It’s important to feed them a balanced diet that is rich in nutrients and vitamins. Here are some of the staple foods that should make up your bearded dragon’s diet:

• Dark leafy greens such as kale, dandelion greens, arugula, collard greens, and mustard greens
• Non-citrus fruits like apples, berries, cantaloupe, and mango
• Vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, squash, and sweet potato
• Protein-rich foods such as crickets, mealworms, super worms, and roaches
• Occasionally, small amounts of cooked chicken or fish may be given as a treat

When feeding your 8-month-old bearded dragon, ensure that the size of the food is proportional to the size of the lizard’s mouth. Younger dragons should be fed smaller, more frequent meals to aid their growth and development. Adults can be fed larger meals twice or three times a week.

Supplements for Your Bearded Dragon

In addition to a varied diet, your bearded dragon may require supplements to meet their nutritional requirements. They need both calcium and vitamin D3 to prevent bone deformities and other health issues. Calcium supplements can be added to their food or dusted on live insects before feeding. Vitamin D3 supplements can be added to water, food or by exposure to UVB lighting.

Foods to Avoid

It’s important to avoid certain foods that can be harmful to your bearded dragon’s health. Here are some that you should avoid:

• Processed foods like bread, cereal, and pasta
• Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits
• Avocado
• Raw meat or hamburgers
• Wild-captured insects or pests
• Toxic plants like holly and mistletoe

Conclusion

Feeding your 8 month old bearded dragon a well-balanced diet is vital in promoting their overall health and wellbeing. Remember to provide them with a variety of foods rich in nutrients and supplements, ensuring the right balance. By providing them with proper feeding and nutrition, they will thrive under your care for many years to come.