Bearded Dragons: The Low-Maintenance, High-Reward Pet

If you’re looking for a unique, easy-going pet that’s relatively low maintenance yet full of personality, a bearded dragon might just be the perfect fit. Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptile pets for a reason—they’re docile, curious, and quite interactive. While they don’t fetch your slippers like a dog or purr like a cat, they have their own quirky charm that reptile enthusiasts adore.

What Bearded Dragons Do – Full of Personality

Bearded dragons, often affectionately called “beardies,” are native to Australia, and they’ve adapted well to domestic life. They’re known for their laid-back demeanor, which makes them great companions for both new and experienced pet owners. Bearded dragons love basking in the sun (or under a UVB lamp in your home) and exploring their environment. They’re not overly active, but they do enjoy short bursts of energy—especially during feeding time or when there’s something interesting to investigate.

Sleeping Habits – Long, Cozy Nights

Bearded dragons are diurnal—this means they’re active during the day and sleep at night, much like humans. In captivity, they typically sleep for 8 to 12 hours, often going to bed as soon as the lights go out. If you notice your beardie burrowing into its substrate or curling up under a rock, it’s likely settling in for the night. And here’s an interesting fact—bearded dragons can experience a form of hibernation called brumation, where they slow down for a few weeks or months during colder periods. Don’t be alarmed if your beardie seems sluggish during this time; it’s a natural part of their life cycle.

Feeding Habits – A Balanced Diet of Insects and Veggies

Bearded dragons are omnivores—they eat both plants and meat. In the wild, their diet includes a variety of insects, plants, and even small animals. As pets, they thrive on a mix of live insects (crickets, mealworms, or dubia roaches) and leafy greens (like kale, collard greens, and dandelion leaves). Babies and juveniles need more protein and should be fed primarily insects, while adults transition to a more plant-heavy diet. A balanced feeding schedule might look like this—live insects 3-5 times a week, and vegetables daily. Always provide fresh water, and remember to dust their food with calcium powder to keep their bones healthy!

Relationship with Humans – Surprisingly Affectionate

Bearded dragons may not be as emotionally expressive as mammals, but they can form strong bonds with their human caretakers. Many beardie owners report that their pet recognizes them, enjoys being handled, and even seems to seek out human interaction. They’re generally gentle and tolerant of handling, making them great for people who want a pet they can interact with. Just make sure you support their body when handling, and always let them get comfortable with your presence first.

Bearded dragons also have a cool way of communicating—they “wave” by lifting one of their front legs and slowly moving it in a circular motion. This is a submissive gesture in the wild, but it’s also a fun thing to witness from your pet.

Activity Levels – Mostly Chill with Occasional Sprints

Bearded dragons aren’t the most active of pets, but they do enjoy climbing, exploring, and basking. You’ll often find them chilling out under their heat lamp or sprawled on a warm rock. They’re curious creatures and will investigate their surroundings if you give them a chance. You can add enrichment to their tank, like logs or climbing branches, to keep them entertained. However, don’t expect them to run marathons—they’re content with a little burst of energy followed by plenty of relaxation.

Interesting Facts About Bearded Dragons

• They have a unique ability to change the color of their beards (hence the name “bearded dragon”). This color change can signal different emotions like stress, excitement, or during mating.
• Beardies have a “third eye”—a small, light-sensitive spot on the top of their head. It doesn’t “see” in the traditional sense, but it helps them detect shadows, which can alert them to predators in the wild.
• Bearded dragons can puff out their beard when threatened, making them look larger and more intimidating. This is a defense mechanism, but in captivity, it’s usually just a way of saying, “I’m not happy with what’s going on.”
• They can run on their hind legs! When they need to escape quickly, bearded dragons will lift their front legs off the ground and sprint on their back legs.
• See this article for 20 Captivating Facts About Bearded Dragons.

What Bearded Dragons Like – The Comfort of a Warm Tank

Beardies love warmth—remember, they’re from Australia, where the desert heat is part of life. In captivity, they need a basking spot in their enclosure that reaches around 100°F (38°C), while the cooler side of the tank should be around 75°F (24°C). They also need access to UVB light for 10-12 hours a day, which helps them metabolize calcium and stay healthy.

When they’re not basking or eating, bearded dragons enjoy hiding in little nooks or climbing up branches. Adding different levels and textures to their tank can keep them stimulated and happy.

Final Thoughts – A Great Companion for the Right Owner

Bearded dragons are fantastic pets for those who are willing to learn about their care and invest in the proper setup. They’re relatively low-maintenance, but they do require a stable environment with proper lighting, diet, and heat. In return, you’ll get a calm, friendly pet that can live up to 10-15 years with the right care—plenty of time to bond with your beardie and learn all the quirky things that make them special!

If you’re looking for a pet with a bit of personality and a lot of low-key charm, a bearded dragon could be the perfect fit.

Further reading: “Bearded Dragons for Beginners: Basics of Species Appropriate Husbandry and Care in Your Terrarium” (Amazon affiliate link) by Alina Daria.