Thinking about bringing home a bearded dragon? These amazing reptiles make wonderful pets, but proper setup and care is essential. Here are our top 5 tips from 40+ years of reptile experience at Dee’s Pets.
1. Get the Right Size Enclosure
Adult bearded dragons need a minimum 40-gallon tank, but we recommend a 75-gallon or larger. A cramped dragon is a stressed dragon. Come see our selection of Exo Terra terrariums — we’ll help you pick the right size for your beardie’s age.
2. UVB Lighting is Non-Negotiable
Bearded dragons MUST have proper UVB lighting to synthesize vitamin D3 and absorb calcium. Without it, they develop metabolic bone disease — a painful and preventable condition. We recommend the Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0 T5 HO lamp, which we always keep in stock.
3. Temperature Gradient Matters
Your enclosure needs a basking spot of 100-110°F and a cool side around 80-85°F. This lets your beardie thermoregulate naturally. Use a reliable thermometer — not the stick-on kind. Digital probe thermometers are the way to go.
4. Variety in Diet
Young bearded dragons need 70% insects and 30% vegetables. Adults flip to 70% veggies and 30% insects. Dust feeder insects with calcium powder at every feeding. Ask our staff about the best feeder insect options.
5. Visit Us Before You Buy
The best thing you can do as a new reptile owner is talk to experienced keepers. Our staff at Dee’s Pets has decades of combined reptile experience. We’ll walk you through everything you need and make sure you’re set up for success.
Ready to meet your new bearded dragon? Stop by Dee’s Pets at 11426 Route 37, Marion, IL or call us at (618) 997-3849!