Hello all! I want to ask guys some common mistakes that new bearded dragon owners make. Before I take a beardie, I want to research more and join reptile pet owner’s communities such as this site, scanning old posts here and other forums for help and gathering information as much as I can. I would like to know things to avoid in general, aside from food and frequency of feeding. TIA for all info.
3 Likes
I’ll say this much, not as a beardie owner, but as an outside observer and someone who has reptile-sat a beardie for a neighbor. The thing I see the most regarding beardies, and something that is told to owner by pet stores, is tank sizes that are too small.
Beardies, especially adults, in the homes I have seen, are kept in enclosures multiple times too small for them. A beardie is a much bigger size responsibility than they are advertised as.
Hopefully someone here can give advice on exact sizing, as well as other topics, but I’d def research what size enclosures you’ll need over the lifespan/growth stages of your beardie.
Good luck! 
2 Likes
I know you said aside from food but i think this is very important and it’s something i didn’t know until it happened to me. Gout is a pretty big issue in beardies and happens a lot when they’re given too much protein. If you’re planning feeding dubias mainly, i suggest shaking it up a little and having some variety. Also making sure you’re not feeding dubias too too much (like every other day to 2 days for an adult, instead mix some other bugs in), make sure your beardie is hydrated, and make sure they’re getting a good insects to greens ratio. I’m sorry if this is hard to read, i’ve had a long day and words don’t really make sense anymore lol. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to ask!
1 Like
Thank you for the info.
Yes, I agree, many beardie/gecko owners said to not take advice from pet shops as they give out the wrong stuff and information. I still need to learn more and bigger budget I may say lols. I would need all the help I could get from you guys who are experienced and experts in taking care of reptiles.
2 Likes
Hey, hi, yes this is great! Definitely included in my notes. I can read all the articles on the web but the on-set experience from the experts is far better. Thanks for sharing guys! I appreciate iit
2 Likes
I have to say, you’re already on the right path for trying to verify information from sources other than the petstores, so you’re already doing more than many prospective reptile owners doand that’s amazing!
1 Like