Bearded Dragon

• For ages 10 & up
• Lives approximately 10 years
• Omnivores
• Come from a desert environment

Want to break into the world of reptile Pet Parenting? Or just looking to add a docile, interesting reptile to your existing family? Either way, bearded dragons (known fondly among hobbyists as "Beardies") are a great way to go. Bearded dragons are gentle by nature and will learn to enjoy interacting with their Pet Parents. They have spiny skin under their throats that when "puffed up," looks like a beard. They eat mostly live insects like crickets and also some vegetables.

Visit our Bearded dragon guide to learn more about the traits and behaviors that make bearded dragons great pets, plus find care information and the products you'll need to keep them healthy and happy.

Things to remember

Handling
Give your pet 3-4 days to adjust to his new surroundings, then try holding him for short amounts of time. Take care to never handle him by the tail - it could break off.

Environment
Bearded dragons originally come from the desert and need a warm, dry environment.

Calcium dust
"Dust" the insects with a calcium supplement twice a week - ask a PetSmart associate for details.

Water
They will drink from a shallow dish and lick moisture from their skin; mist your pet every other day.

Housing
Use a well-ventilated, 40-gallon or larger, glass terrarium.

Hiding & basking
Include a basking area close to the heat source. Also add a wood or rock hiding place in the cool area of the home.

Bedding
Line a juvenile's (less than 6" long) home with newspaper or reptile carpet; use a 3"-6" layer of calcium sand for adults. Clean out waste weekly and change bedding at least once a month.

Vet Assured™ Promise
All pets purchased at PetSmart are raised under our exclusive Vet Assured program and come with a 14-day satisfaction guarantee. Vet Assured is a program designed by PetSmart veterinarians to improve the health and well-being of our pets. The program sets standards for the care of our pets by our live animal partners and store associates and establishes strict standards for the monitoring and prevention of common illnesses found in pets. PetSmart makes a significant investment in the care of our pets and it is apparent in the quality and comfort of the pets in our stores. However, if your pet becomes ill during this initial 14-day period, or if you're not satisfied with your pet for any reason, PetSmart will gladly replace the pet or refund the purchase price. Please keep your sales receipt and return the pet to the store where it was purchased if needed.