What do I need to set up for my bearded dragon's first year?
Creating a bearded dragon habitat requires a significant upfront investment, including an enclosure, lighting, and daily care supplies. Here's what you need to know.
Commitment to Care
Bearded dragons can live up to 15 years, requiring a daily time commitment of at least 30 minutes for feeding and handling. They need a minimum enclosure size of 4×2×2 ft (about 120 gallons) to thrive. Handling should be gentle and limited to avoid stress.
You'll need to invest in a heating pad, UVB lighting, and a thermometer to maintain the correct basking temperature of 95–105°F (35–41°C). Regular cleaning and maintenance are also essential for their health.
- Commit to a daily care routine of at least 30 minutes.
- Provide an enclosure of at least 4×2×2 ft (120 gallons).
- Maintain a basking temperature of 95–105°F (35–41°C).
- Use a heating pad and UVB lighting.
- Regularly clean the enclosure and handle the dragon gently.
One-Time Setup
The initial setup includes purchasing the enclosure, heating elements, lighting, and substrate. You'll also need a water dish, food dishes, and a thermometer.
An adult enclosure should be at least 4×2×2 ft (120 gallons) to accommodate the dragon's size and provide enough space for movement.
- Enclosure: 4×2×2 ft (120 gallons) minimum.
- Heating pad for basking area.
- UVB lighting: 10.0 / desert strength tube.
- Thermometer to monitor temperatures.
- Water dish and food dishes.
Recurring Consumables
Regular consumables include substrate, food, and bedding. Substrate should be replaced every 2–3 weeks, and food should be provided daily.
Bedding should be changed as needed, typically every 1–2 weeks.
- Substrate replacement every 2–3 weeks.
- Food provided daily.
- Bedding change every 1–2 weeks.
Ongoing Costs
In addition to consumables, there are other recurring costs to consider. These include vet visits, replacement equipment, and any necessary supplements.
Vet visits should be scheduled at least once a year for a general check-up.
- Vet visits at least once a year.
- Replacement of heating pads, lighting, and other equipment as needed.
- Supplements or medications as recommended by a vet.
Are You Ready?
Before bringing your bearded dragon home, ensure you have the following: a properly set up enclosure, the right lighting and heating equipment, a daily care routine, and a plan for regular vet check-ups.
You should also be prepared for the time and financial commitment required to care for a bearded dragon over its lifespan.
- A properly set up enclosure.
- Correct lighting and heating equipment.
- A daily care routine in place.
- A plan for regular vet check-ups.
- The time and financial commitment for long-term care.
Keep reading about Bearded Dragon: Bearded Dragon care sheet
Related questions
How often should I clean my bearded dragon's enclosure?
The enclosure should be cleaned thoroughly every 2–3 weeks.
What type of lighting do bearded dragons need?
Bearded dragons require a UVB lighting of 10.0 / desert strength tube.
How often should I feed my bearded dragon?
Food should be provided daily.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your bearded dragon is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.