Introduction

Bearded dragons are one of the most popular pet reptiles around, and for good reason. They’re friendly, low-maintenance, and fascinating to watch. If you’re a beginner looking to set up a home for your bearded dragon, this step-by-step guide will help you create a complete bearded dragon setup that will keep your pet healthy and happy for years to come.

Step 1: Choose the Right Enclosure

The first step to creating a complete bearded dragon setup is choosing the right enclosure. Bearded dragons need plenty of space to move around and explore, so you’ll want to get an enclosure that’s at least 40 gallons in size. A glass terrarium with a screen top is a good option, as it will provide good ventilation and make it easy to observe your pet.

Step 2: Create the Right Substrate

The substrate is the material you place at the bottom of the enclosure. It’s important to choose a substrate that’s safe for your bearded dragon and easy to clean. Some good options include reptile carpet, paper towels, or tile. Avoid sand or loose substrates, as they can be ingested and cause impaction.

Step 3: Install Heating and Lighting

Bearded dragons are cold-blooded animals and need a heat source to regulate their body temperature. Install a basking light at one end of the enclosure and a UVB light at the other to create a temperature gradient. A temperature range of 95-110 degrees Fahrenheit on the basking side and 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit on the cooler side is optimal. Make sure to provide a night-time heat source as well.

Step 4: Provide a Hiding Spot and Decorations

Bearded dragons need a place to hide and feel secure in their enclosure. You can provide a hiding spot by placing a half-log or a hide box in the enclosure. Adding decorations like rocks, branches, and plants can also create a more natural and stimulating environment for your bearded dragon to explore. Make sure all decorations are clean and safe for your pet.

Step 5: Provide a Water Dish and Food Bowl

In addition to a hiding spot and decorations, your bearded dragon will need a water dish and food bowl. Choose a shallow dish for water and replace it with fresh water daily. For the food bowl, you can use a small dish or a shallow tray. Feed your bearded dragon a diet consisting mainly of insects and vegetables, with occasional treats like fruit.

Step 6: Maintain the Enclosure

Maintaining the enclosure is key to keeping your bearded dragon healthy and happy. Clean the substrate and decorations regularly, and remove any uneaten food. Keep an eye on the temperature and humidity levels and adjust accordingly. It’s also important to take your bearded dragon to the veterinarian annually for a check-up.

Conclusion

Creating a complete bearded dragon setup may seem daunting at first, but with this guide, you’ll be able to provide your pet with a safe and stimulating environment. Remember to choose the right enclosure, substrate, heating and lighting, decorations, and food and water dishes, and maintain the enclosure regularly. With a little bit of effort, you’ll have a happy and healthy bearded dragon for years to come!