My Pet Is a Bearded Dragon – What Does It Really Need?

What does it really need for a happy, healthy life?

A bearded dragon isn't just an interesting lizard – it's a little dragon that brings exotic charm and calm into your home. If you're planning to welcome one into your family, or already have this fascinating animal, it's important to know how to give it the best living conditions.

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A terrarium for your bearded dragon – its own little world

For an adult bearded dragon, the recommended minimum terrarium size is 100x50x50 cm. As with people, though – the more space, the better! A bigger terrarium gives your dragon more room to move, explore and relax.

The terrarium should be split into three temperature zones:

🔥 Warm zone (basking spot): 38–42°C
❄️ Cooler zone: 26–30°C
🌙 Night-time temperature: 18–22°C

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Lighting for a bearded dragon – key to its health

Lighting plays a key role in a bearded dragon's health. You'll need to install a UVB 10.0 lamp, which should run for 10–12 hours a day. This light allows proper calcium absorption and prevents metabolic bone disease.

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Bearded dragon diet – balanced and varied

A bearded dragon is omnivorous, meaning it likes both meat and plants. Its diet should include:

🦗 Insects (crickets, mealworms, grasshoppers)
🥦 Vegetables (kale, zucchini, arugula, carrots…)
💧 Always-fresh water in a dedicated dish

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Decorating a bearded dragon's terrarium – a natural setting

To make your dragon feel at home, decorate the terrarium with:

Branches and wooden platforms for climbing
Rocks and hides for resting
Substrate that's easy to clean and doesn't hold moisture

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Bearded dragon hygiene – the basis of health and longevity

Regularly cleaning the terrarium is essential. Remove leftover food, change the water daily, and disinfect the substrate from time to time. A clean space means a healthy, happy dragon that will be with you for a long time.