Training Bearded Dragons: A Comprehensive Guide

Bearded dragons are highly popular reptile pets, not only because of their friendly nature but also because they can be trained to interact with their owners. While training a bearded dragon may not be the same as training a dog, they can still learn routines, get comfortable with handling, and even respond to cues. This guide provides essential tips and advice for training your bearded dragon.

Why Train Your Bearded Dragon?

Training your bearded dragon is less about teaching tricks and more about building a routine that improves their quality of life and makes handling easier for you. Proper training can:

• Reduce Stress – A bearded dragon that is comfortable with handling will experience less stress during feeding, bathing, or visits to the vet.
• Promote Bonding – The more time you spend training your dragon, the stronger the bond between you.
• Improve Behavior – Training can help manage behavior, such as preventing nipping or skittishness during handling.

Handling and Taming

Handling is the most important aspect of training a bearded dragon. The goal is to help your dragon get used to human interaction and being held. Here’s how to handle and tame your bearded dragon effectively:

• Start Slowly – Approach your dragon gently and avoid making sudden movements. Initially, try placing your hand in the tank without touching them. Let them get used to your presence.
• Support Their Body – Always support the entire body when lifting a bearded dragon. Never grab them by the tail, as it can cause stress or injury.
• Short Handling Sessions – Begin with brief handling sessions of 5-10 minutes and gradually increase the duration as your dragon becomes more comfortable.
• Positive Reinforcement – Offer treats (such as mealworms) during or after handling to create a positive association with being held. (Amazon affiliate link)
• Avoid Handling During Shedding or Moulting – Bearded dragons are more irritable during shedding periods, so give them space during these times.

Training Your Bearded Dragon for Feeding

Feeding time can be used as a training opportunity. With consistency, bearded dragons can recognize feeding cues and even be encouraged to come to you during feeding.

• Use a Feeding Dish – Place food in the same dish every time so your bearded dragon associates the dish with meals. (Amazon affiliate link)
• Create a Routine – Feed your dragon at the same time each day to establish a routine. They will begin to recognize this routine and anticipate feeding.
• Hand Feeding – Try hand feeding certain treats like crickets or mealworms. This will help reinforce trust and strengthen the bond between you and your dragon.
• Respond to Visual Cues – Bearded dragons are highly visual and can learn to associate your presence or certain movements with feeding time.

Litter Training a Bearded Dragon

Yes, bearded dragons can be trained to go to the bathroom in a specific area! While it may take time, litter training can make cleaning up easier and keep their enclosure more sanitary.

• Designate a Bathroom Spot – Choose a corner of the enclosure to act as the bathroom. Many dragons naturally pick a spot in their tank, so you can start by placing paper towels or substrate in that area.
• Move Their Waste – If they go to the bathroom elsewhere, move their waste to the designated bathroom spot. Over time, this helps them understand that it’s the right area to use.
• Routine Timing – Bearded dragons often go to the bathroom after eating, so you can use this natural behavior to your advantage by cleaning the tank regularly and reinforcing the designated spot.

Training Bearded Dragons to Come When Called

Believe it or not, bearded dragons can learn to respond to their name or specific visual cues. This isn’t a guarantee, but with persistence, many owners have success with this training method.

• Use Treats as Motivation – Train your dragon to come when called by using their favorite treats as motivation. Every time you call their name, offer a treat when they approach.
• Keep It Consistent – Consistency is key. Always use the same word or cue (such as their name) when offering a reward.
• Keep Expectations Realistic – While this is possible, not all bearded dragons will respond to verbal commands, but it’s worth trying!

Socialization and Routine

Bearded dragons thrive on routine, and training can help them adjust to everyday interactions.

• Regular Handling – Handle your bearded dragon daily (if they are comfortable) to reinforce calm behavior. (Amazon affiliate link)
• Bathing Routines – Bearded dragons benefit from regular baths, especially during shedding. Training them to relax during bathing can make the process easier.
• Interaction with Environment – Allow your dragon to explore outside its enclosure in a safe, secure environment. This keeps them stimulated and helps with socialization.

Tips for Success

Training your bearded dragon requires patience and understanding. Here are some final tips to help you succeed:

• Stay Calm and Patient – Bearded dragons respond to calm, confident handling. Never force them into situations they aren’t comfortable with.
• Pay Attention to Body Language – If your dragon is puffing up, hissing, or showing other signs of distress, give them space. Always respect their comfort levels.
• Use Visual Cues – Bearded dragons are highly visual, so they will often respond better to actions and routines they can see rather than hear.

Resources for Further Learning

• Books: “The Complete Guide to Bearded Dragon Care and Ownership: Habitat Set-Up, Essential Care Routines, Nutrition and Diet, Handling, Bonding, Training, and Successful Bearded Dragon Ownership” (Amazon affiliate link) by Alisha Cuarenta.
• Websites: BeardedDragon.org for community discussions and expert advice on care and training.
• Videos: YouTube offers plenty of tutorials from experienced reptile owners who show step-by-step processes for taming and training.

Training a bearded dragon is a rewarding process that strengthens your bond and makes handling easier. With consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement, your bearded dragon will learn to enjoy human interaction and settle into daily routines.