How Do I Care for a Baby Dragon?

Your baby bearded dragon lizard depends on you as provider and friend. When you care properly for this "baby," you will be rewarded with its gentle companionship. The procedures for its care are simple but must be consistent.

Food and Water
- Baby dragons grow fast and need their meals two to three times a day for their first few months. First, about 80 percent of their diet should be crickets. For the rest, make a salad in a processor from vegetables, greens and water. Overfeeding can cause distressed digestion, so limit the insect food to ten-minute feeding periods. Keep their water containers filled too, freshening up the supply once or twice a day.
Living Space
- For a baby dragon, you'll need at least a 20-gallon aquarium. As an adult, it should have a 50-gallon tank. These dragons are messy and you'll need to clean their quarters several times a day. Messy conditions can invite fleas and parasites. Temperature is important, too, with one spot warm enough for basking---between 100F and105F---and air temperature in the mid-80's. Another spot needs to be kept wet enough to provide humidity for its skin and lungs. For substrate---the layer of base on the bottom of the tank---paper towels are best.
Light
- Your baby dragon needs full-spectrum ultraviolet light to aid its digestion and bone development. This UVB light should be as much as possible like that of the sun.
Handling
- Gentle handling helps our baby dragon bond with you.
  
  Gently handle your dragon often as a way to bond and build trust. It will love to relax in the warmth and security of your cupped hands. Never handle any lizard by the tail as this greatly upsets it and makes it feel vulnerable.