If you’re a proud owner of a bearded dragon, you already know they’re more than just reptiles—they’re charismatic little companions with unique personalities. One of the biggest keys to keeping your beardie happy, healthy, and active is their diet.
A proper bearded dragon diet ensures they live a long, vibrant life while avoiding common health problems like malnutrition or obesity. But what exactly should you be feeding your bearded dragon? Let’s break it down step by step.
What Do Bearded Dragons Eat?
Bearded dragons are omnivores, meaning they need a balanced mix of both plant-based and protein-rich foods. Their diet changes as they grow, requiring more protein during their early stages of life and more greens as they mature. Here’s a simple breakdown of their dietary components:
| Food Type | Examples | Frequency | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live Insects | Crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms | Daily (for young dragons); 2-3 times a week (adults) | High in protein for growth and energy. |
| Greens | Collard greens, mustard greens, kale | Daily | Rich in vitamins and calcium. |
| Vegetables | Squash, bell peppers, zucchini | Daily | Provides fiber and hydration. |
| Fruits (Occasional) | Strawberries, blueberries, mango | 1-2 times a week | Tasty treats with natural sugars. |
| Supplements | Calcium with Vitamin D3 powder | 3-5 times a week | Prevents bone issues like MBD. |
Feeding Frequency and Portion Sizes by Age
Bearded dragons go through distinct life stages, and their diet needs to adapt accordingly. Overfeeding or underfeeding can lead to serious health concerns, so it’s essential to follow a proper feeding schedule.
Baby Bearded Dragons (0–6 Months)
Baby dragons grow rapidly, so they need a protein-heavy diet to support their development.
- Diet Composition: 70% protein (live insects), 30% greens and vegetables.
- Frequency: 3–5 feedings per day with as many insects as they can eat in 10 minutes.
- Greens: Offer finely chopped greens daily alongside insects.
Juvenile Bearded Dragons (6–12 Months)
At this stage, they transition to a more balanced diet with increasing plant-based foods.
- Diet Composition: 50% protein, 50% greens and vegetables.
- Frequency: 2–3 feedings per day.
- Tip: Gradually introduce a wider variety of vegetables to encourage good eating habits.
Adult Bearded Dragons (1 Year and Older)
As adults, their diet shifts predominantly to greens and vegetables with reduced protein intake.
- Diet Composition: 80% greens and vegetables, 20% protein.
- Frequency: Once daily.
- Portion Control: Be mindful not to overfeed as adult dragons are less active.
| Age | Protein (%) | Greens/Vegetables (%) | Feeding Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0–6 Months (Baby) | 70% | 30% | 3–5 times/day |
| 6–12 Months (Juvenile) | 50% | 50% | 2–3 times/day |
| 1 Year+ (Adult) | 20% | 80% | Once daily |
Nutritional Requirements of a Healthy Diet
A healthy bearded dragon diet isn’t just about feeding them the right foods; it’s also about ensuring their meals meet their nutritional needs.
1. Calcium and Vitamin D3
Bearded dragons require calcium for strong bones and muscle function. Without it, they can develop metabolic bone disease (MBD), a serious and often fatal condition.
Solution: Dust their food with calcium powder 3–5 times a week, ensuring it includes Vitamin D3 to aid in absorption.
2. Protein for Growth and Energy
Live insects like dubia roaches and crickets are excellent sources of protein. Avoid feeding wild-caught insects as they may carry parasites or pesticides.
Tip: Gut-load insects (feed them nutrient-rich foods) 24 hours before offering them to your dragon for an added nutritional boost.
3. Hydration
While bearded dragons don’t drink much water, they rely on the moisture content of their food for hydration.
- How to Help: Mist vegetables before serving or provide shallow bowls of fresh water daily.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods can be toxic or harmful to bearded dragons. Avoid these at all costs:
- Toxic Foods: Avocado, rhubarb, wild-caught insects.
- High Oxalate Foods: Spinach, beet greens (bind calcium, leading to deficiencies).
- Sugary or Acidic Foods: Citrus fruits like oranges or lemons.
| Avoid These Foods | Reason |
|---|---|
| Avocado | Toxic to reptiles. |
| Rhubarb | Contains harmful oxalic acid. |
| Spinach | High in oxalates, reduces calcium absorption. |
Solving Common Feeding Problems
1. Picky Eaters
If your dragon refuses greens, try mixing them with small pieces of fruit to entice them. Gradually reduce the fruit as they start eating more greens.
2. Weight Loss
If your dragon is losing weight despite eating, consult a vet to rule out parasites or illness.
3. Toxic Food Consumption
If they accidentally eat a harmful food, contact your veterinarian immediately. Symptoms to watch for include lethargy, diarrhea, or loss of appetite.
Best Food Options and Where to Buy
Live Insects
- Top Picks: Dubia roaches, crickets, black soldier fly larvae.
- Where to Buy: Local pet stores and online reptile suppliers
Greens and Vegetables
- Best Sources: Grocery stores, farmer’s markets, or grow your own!
- Tip: Choose organic options when possible to avoid pesticides.
Supplements
- Calcium and multivitamin powders are readily available at pet stores or online.
Long-Term Diet Planning
Weekly Feeding Schedule
Here’s an example of a balanced weekly diet for an adult bearded dragon:
| Day | Insects | Greens | Vegetables |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Dubia roaches (5-7) | Collard greens | Bell peppers |
| Tuesday | None | Mustard greens | Zucchini |
| Wednesday | Crickets (5-7) | Dandelion greens | Squash |
| Thursday | None | Kale | Carrots (small) |
| Friday | Mealworms (5) | Turnip greens | Parsnip |
| Saturday | None | Collard greens + Spinach (tiny) | Cucumber |
| Sunday | Crickets (5-7) | Mustard greens | Sweet potato (small) |
DIY Bearded Dragon Food Recipes
- Greens Mix Salad: Chop collard greens, mustard greens, and bell peppers. Add a small slice of mango as a treat.
- Protein Boost Bowl: Gut-loaded crickets mixed with shredded squash.
Conclusion
Your bearded dragon diet plays a vital role in their health, happiness, and longevity. By offering a balanced mix of protein, greens, and the occasional treat, you can ensure they thrive in your care. Remember to monitor their feeding habits, provide supplements as needed, and always consult a vet for any concerns.