You can’t buy a bearded dragon if you don’t have enough space.
We will tell you how to find the right setup for your bearded dragon of any age, regardless of its size.
Problems of a small tank
A tank that is too small can cause mental and physical problems for your bearded dragon. Your young bearded dragon will not grow as fast and comfortably if they don’t have enough space.
They may also feel stressed out or depressed. You may also experience other health issues that require veterinary intervention.
Before you begin
It might seem sensible to purchase the largest tank possible for your baby bearded Dragon to avoid having to spend more on their growth and maturation. This is a bad idea.
As your bearded dragon grows from a baby to a teenager and then into an adult, you will need different sizes tanks. Let’s look at what size tank you should choose for each stage of life. You should aim for the largest size tank possible for each stage.
Baby bearded dragons need a tank size
A tank that is between 20-40gallons in size is required for baby bearded dragons under 10 inches. A larger tank may make it more difficult for your baby dragon to catch any food you have put in.
You should aim for a 40-gallon tank measuring 36″x18″,x18″
Baby bearded dragons are still learning how to hunt, so a 20-40 gallon tank is ideal. It will allow them to grow and also give them the opportunity to catch their food.
To ensure your baby dragon is coping, it’s a good idea to watch them hunt and catch food. You might consider hand-feeding your baby some food or placing them in a smaller aquarium (20 gallons minimum).
You’ll need to prepare a bigger tank for your baby bearded Dragon when they reach 10 inches.
Size of the tank for juvenile bearded Dragons
A tank that holds 55 to 75 gallons is required for juvenile bearded dragons. Bearded dragons grow fast and can reach maturity in as little 18 months. You should consider preparing a bigger tank for your bearded dragon as they reach adult size.
Aim for a 75-gallon tank measuring 48″x18″x21″.
Size of the tank for adult bearded Dragons
Adult bearded dragons need a minimum tank size of 75 gallons. However, it is advisable to have a tank capacity of 120 gallons. This will allow them to hunt for food, rest in warm spots, climb and search out cooler areas.
You should aim for a 120-gallon tank measuring 48″x24’x24″.
When they reach 20 inches in height, bearded dragons are considered adults. However, they can grow up to 24 inches long.
Which type of tank should I choose?
Tanks can be made from a variety of materials including PVC, glass, and melamine. If you have the necessary DIY skills, you can make your own tank or vivarium.
No matter what material you choose, there are two types of tanks available: side-opening and top-opening. Top-opening tanks can be used as fish aquariums and are readily available in a variety of materials. This tank has one problem. You have to reach up from the top to get your beardie out. This can be frightening depending on your bearded dragon’s personality. They may feel threatened if they see something from the top.
A side-opening tank is another option. This makes it easier to get in and care for your bearded dragon without scaring them. Although they are more costly, these tanks are our favorite option once your bearded Dragon is fully grown.
How about lids?
No matter what type of tank you choose, ensure that the lid allows enough ventilation and heat to escape. Screen lids are good choices as they keep heat in and allow air to circulate.
Bearded dragons love climbing, so make sure that your lid is strong enough to withstand being ripped off by an adventurous beardie!
Tank width and height are important
Although you might believe that the tank is large enough in gallons, it should be high enough and wide enough. A tank should be 24 inches in height and width. A taller tank allows your bearded dragon the freedom to move towards or away from the heat source at its top. If you have plenty of levels to choose from, it will be easy for them to find the right spot.
They love to climb so a taller tank gives them multiple climbing opportunities.
When your dragon is fully grown, you want your beardie to be able to turn comfortably.
Can bearded Dragons be kept together?
They can become territorial and could cause fights or injuries. This is not a way to go if your dragons aren’t been raised together since their birth.
Two bearded dragons living together can increase the risk of fighting and result in injuries that could lead to costly veterinary bills. One dragon may become territorial and refuse to share food or basking areas with the other.
If you have two dragons you want to house together, you can combine two 75-gallon tanks each to give them enough space. Or you could buy a larger 150-gallon tank to keep them together for the long term.
If a dragon suddenly becomes territorial, we recommend having a backup tank.
Preparation
Be sure to prepare your tank for your bearded dragon before you buy it. This includes:
- Find hidden places
- There is plenty of space to move about
- Climbing objects
- A range of temperatures
- Space to relax
- A place to dig
It is vital to choose the right size tank
The right size tank will make your bearded dragon feel safe and comfortable in their new home. While some bearded dragon babies can live in larger tanks right away, others prefer smaller tanks.
It’s best to get your bearded dragon the largest tank you can afford once they reach full size. They will be happy and healthy with lots of room to climb, chase food and enjoy the heat lamp.
What size aquarium is best for a bearded dragon?
A bearded dragon terrarium needs to be large enough to provide a suitable temperature gradient and adequate room for movement. Bearded dragons should have an enclosure that is at least 48 inches by 24 inches by 24 inches, or 120 cm by 60 cm, in size.
Do bearded dragons need everyday maintenance?
When kept in the proper conditions—including with the right lighting, temperature, supplements, and diet—bearded dragons require little veterinarian care.
Are bearded dragons bathed regularly?
For a number of reasons, giving your bearded dragon a bath is crucial. One of the biggest ones is dehydration. Many beardies prefer to gulp up their bathwater rather than drink from bowls. Of course, baths are essential for maintaining hygiene.
How frequently should I feed my bearded dragon each day?
Depending on each pet’s specific appetite, juvenile bearded dragons typically eat once or twice a day whereas adult lizards can be fed once daily.
Are bearded dragons aquarium-required pets?
A 20–50 gallon long glass aquarium tank is needed for adults. Bears love to climb, so create plenty of vertical space with branches. Paper, newspapers, paper towels, or slate are the safest and simplest substrates to utilize.
Do bearded dragons require a large space?
A large enclosure is ideal for bearded dragons since they want as much floor space as possible. A 125-gallon aquarium or terrarium is the best option.
Do bearded dragons need to poop on a regular basis?
Young bearded dragons (4 to 18 months old) will poop every day or so, however elderly bearded dragons (18 months and older) will poop 1–7 times each week.
May bearded dragons be lonely, right?
Bearded dragons do not experience loneliness when left alone in a cage or for a period of time away from their caretaker because they are naturally solitary animals. Instead of sharing their food and heat with another bearded dragon, they really prefer to have it all to themselves.
Can a bearded dragon fit in a 2 feet tank?
The minimum size of a vivarium needed for a baby, juvenile, and the adult bearded dragon is 1.2 x 0.6 x 0.6 meters (4 x 2 x 2ft). Due to their rapid growth, even young bearded dragons should have access to this. Since vivariums often open from the front, your bearded dragon will be able to view you when you open the sliding door.