How to Select a Healthy Bearded Dragon

By Jennifer Ketcherside

Rate: (2 Ratings)

After you have decided to buy a bearded dragon for a pet and have a habitat set up, you’re ready to choose a dragon. When buying any pet, it is important to know what to look for to select a healthy animal. Here are some tips for selecting a healthy bearded dragon.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1
Research pet stores and/or breeders and select a reputable one.
Step2
Look at the condition of the bearded dragon habitat at the pet store or breeder. Feces should be minimal, food and water should be present, and you should be able to identify a heat source with a basking area and a shaded area.
Step3
Ask the pet store or breeder what they have been feeding the bearded dragons. Young bearded dragons should be fed vegetables (such as greens) and small crickets daily. Older bearded dragons may also be fed worms (such as superworms) and a wider variety of vegetables.
Step4
Watch the dragons and note how active they are. Healthy bearded dragons are active and alert. If a dragon cannot lift its head or appears lethargic, it is not a good choice.
Step5
Look in the dragon’s eyes. They should be clear and the dragon should look interested in you and its surroundings.
Step6
Check the bearded dragon’s eye, nose and mouth area for puss and goo. This can indicate a health problem.
Step7
Pick up the bearded dragon and examine its body for sores, deformities, and parasites that can indicate health problems.
Step8
Consider size. It is not a good idea to select a bearded dragon that is less than 6 inches long. If selecting a young bearded dragon from a group, it is a good rule of thumb that the larger dragons are the healthiest.

Tips & Warnings

  • Bearded dragons are often missing bits of toes or tail. This might not look pretty, but as long as the area is healed, it is not a health issue.
  • Bearded dragons are typically social lizards if cared for properly. If purchasing an adult bearded dragon, handle it to discover its temperament.

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eHow Article:  How to Select a Healthy Bearded Dragon

eHow Member: Jennifer Ketcherside

Jennifer Ketcherside

Novice Novice | 0 Points

Category: Pets

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