The Importance of Giving Your Bearded Dragon a Bath

As a bearded dragon owner, you might be wondering if giving your pet a bath is actually necessary. After all, they come from the hot and dry deserts of Australia, right? While it’s true that bearded dragons are adapted to dry environments, they still need regular baths to maintain good health and hygiene.

Bathing your bearded dragon helps to:

• Keep their skin clean and hydrated
• Promote shedding of old skin
• Prevent bacterial and fungal infections
• Improve hydration
• Relieve constipation

Now that we’ve established the importance of giving your bearded dragon a bath, let’s dive into the details of how to do it safely and effectively.

Preparing for the Bath

Before you put your bearded dragon in the bath, you’ll need to gather a few supplies:

• A shallow container big enough for your bearded dragon to soak in
• A thermometer to check the water temperature
• A cup or jug for pouring water over your bearded dragon
• A towel for drying off your bearded dragon
• A gentle lizard-safe soap (optional)

Setting up the Bath

Now that you have your supplies ready, it’s time to set up the bath:

• Fill the shallow container with lukewarm water, no more than 1-2 inches deep.
• If using soap, add a small amount to the water and mix well.
• Use the thermometer to ensure that the water temperature is between 85-95 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Place your bearded dragon in the water and let them soak for 10-15 minutes.

During the Bath

During the bath, it’s important to keep a close eye on your bearded dragon to make sure they’re comfortable and safe:

• If your bearded dragon seems stressed or agitated, encourage them to relax by offering them some water or gently petting them.
• Never leave your bearded dragon unattended in the bath.
• Pour some water over your beardie’s back to help them stay hydrated and to loosen any debris that might be stuck to their skin.
• If you notice any feces or debris floating in the water, remove it immediately.

After the Bath

Once your bearded dragon has soaked for 10-15 minutes, it’s time to remove them from the water and dry them off:

• Gently pick up your bearded dragon and place them on a dry towel.
• Pat them dry with the towel, being careful not to rub too hard or pull on their skin.
• If your bearded dragon is prone to dry skin, you can apply a small amount of lizard-safe moisturizer to their skin.
• Return your bearded dragon to their enclosure and offer them fresh water.

How Often Should You Bathe Your Bearded Dragon?

The frequency of bearded dragon baths depends on several factors, including their age, health, and environment. Generally, baby and juvenile bearded dragons should be bathed more frequently (2-3 times per week) than adults (1-2 times per month).

That being said, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your bearded dragon’s skin and overall appearance. If they seem dirty or have debris stuck to their skin, a bath might be necessary even if it’s not part of their regular routine.

Conclusion

Giving your bearded dragon regular baths is an important part of their overall care. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your bearded dragon stays healthy and happy.