Bearded dragons are currently one of the most popular lizard pets among Uromatixs, and for a good reason. These friendly reptiles are easy to care for, fascinating to watch and make great companions. A day in the life of these lovable reptiles can summarize as basking in the sun, crunching through leaves, or just hanging out with their owners.
These friendly animals are an excellent choice if you like reptiles and want a new pet. However, always remember that having another alive being in your care is a responsibility that requires knowledge and a proper diet to keep them healthy, happy, and active.
Bearded dragons’ diet should be carefully monitored, as their consumption directly affects their growth and health. Knowing what foods are safe and which should be avoided in their daily meals is essential to ensure your pet gets the correct nutrition.
This blog compiles a detailed guide with insights about feeding your bearded dragon, from protein requirements to the best greens and fruits to supplement their diet.
About Bearded Dragons
Bearded dragons or Pogona Vitticeps are part of the Agamidae species. They are originally from Australia and have adapted to human habitats in hot, arid areas.
These reptiles are omnivores, meaning they eat plants and animal food. Their diet consists mostly of greens, various insects (mealworms, roaches, crickets), and a few fruits. However, they have specific nutritional needs that depend on their age and stage of life, such as what kind of proteins they should consume and how much.
The average lifespan of a bearded dragon is 8-10 years, but with the proper care and diet, they can live up to 15 years.
How Much Insect Protein Does Your Dragon Need by Age and Stage?
How Much Insect Protein Does Your Dragon Need by Age and Stage?The diet of bearded dragons can be categorized as omnivore and herbivorous. However, this can vary with their growth and development. Younger dragons (hatchlings) need more protein because they are still growing and developing, while older bearded dragons need more greens and plant matter.
In the following table, you will find helpful information on the number of proteins should your bearded dragon consume according to age and stage of development.
NOTE: Some of the favorite insects for these reptiles are mealworms, roaches, and crickets, so be sure to consider them when preparing your dragon’s diet.
| Life Stage | Protein | Meal Equivalence |
| Babies (0-4 months old) | 50-70% | 20-30 protein meals per week. |
| Juveniles (4-10 months old) | 25-35% | 10-20 protein meals per week. |
| Adults (10 months and older) | 10-15% | 5-10 protein meals per week. |
Suggestion: It is important to consult a trustable and expert veterinarian to determine the best diet for bearded dragons based on age, weight, and activity level.
Proper Balance Between Protein and Greens for a Healthy Bearded Dragon
To maintain good health, these friendly pets require a varied diet.
In addition to insects, bearded dragons also need to eat greens to get the essential vitamins and minerals. To ensure a proper green and protein balance for your dragon, consider the table from the previous section and the one below.
| Life Stage | Protein | Meal Equivalence |
| Hatchlings or Babies (0-4 months old) | 80-90% | 4-7 portions per week. |
| Juveniles (4-10 months old) | 50-70% | 2-5 portions per week. |
| Adults (10 months and older) | 30-50% | 1-3 portions per week. |
What Are the Best Greens to Feed Your Dragon?
Most of a bearded dragon’s diet should consist of fruits and vegetables. Unfortunately, not all vegetables are appropriate for them. For instance, spinach, cabbage, and broccoli are not a good addition to their diet since they have low calcium and phosphorus levels.
The list below can assist you in planning your purchase of greens for your dragons’ diet.
- Mustard Greens
Nutrient content: High
Digestibility: High
- Collard Greens
Nutrient content: High
Digestibility: High
- Dandelion Greens
Nutrient content: High
Digestibility: High
- Turnip Greens
Nutrient content: Moderate
Digestibility: High
- Beet Greens
Nutrient content: Moderate
Digestibility: High
- Carrots
Nutrient content: Low
Digestibility: High
Spinach, kale, bok choy, and iceberg lettuce are not suitable to include in their diet.
What Fruits Can Bearded Dragons Eat to Supplement Their Diet?
For these pets, fruits are an excellent choice to supplement their diet, especially the ones high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can provide an extra energy boost. It should be noted that fruits should be given in moderation, no more than 5% of their diet, and they do not replace greens.
- Cherries
- Berries
- Mango
- Papaya
- Bananas
- Kiwi
- Apples
- Peaches
- Grapes
- Melons
- Pears
- Plums
- Avocado
Find Your Next Exotic Pet at Jabberwock
Finding the perfect pet is no easy feat, but at Jabberwock, we make it easier. We are an exotic pet store in Eastern Massachusetts and Boston, committed to providing healthy, captive-bred reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.
Our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect pet for your home and ensure that it is living its best life in a caring environment.
For more information on what bearded dragons are and the best diet to provide them, visit us online or stop by our store.
