If you’re considering getting a bearded dragon as a pet, you most likely have numerous inquiries. One important question arises is, “How Big Do Bearded Dragons Get?”
This article will cover everything you need about bearded dragon size and weight.
Bearded Dragon Size chart
| Age | Length | Weight |
| Hatchlings | 3 inches | 4-6 grams |
| Babies (1-3 months) | 3-9 inches | 4-20 grams |
| Juveniles (3 to 11 months) | 8-24 inches | 20-400 grams |
| Adults (12-18 months) | Female: 16-19 inches
Male: 19-24 inches |
400-550 grams |
Importance of Understanding “How big do bearded dragons get?”
Suitable Housing and Environment
Bearded dragons are reptiles that need particular habitat conditions to flourish. Their living space, often called a vivarium or terrarium, should be adequately spacious for their full-grown size. With awareness of their potential size, you could avoid having an enclosure that’s too cramped, causing the bearded dragon stress, unease, and health problems.
Health and Well-being
Inadequate housing can lead to stress-related health problems, such as improper digestion, lethargy, and even aggression. A cramped space can also hinder their natural behaviors, like basking and exploring. By understanding their potential size, you can provide an environment promoting their health and well-being.
Longevity
Bearded dragons can live for a significant amount of time when cared for properly – up to 10-15 years or more. Knowing their eventual size allows you to plan for their long-term care, including suitable housing upgrades as they grow.
Financial Commitment
Properly caring for a bearded dragon involves expenses for its enclosure, lighting, heating, substrate, food, supplements, and veterinary care. If you underestimate their size, you might not budget adequately for these needs, leading to potential neglect due to financial constraints.
Educated Decision-Making
Impulse buying often results from insufficient information about the animal’s needs and requirements. By understanding the expected size of a bearded dragon, you can make an informed decision about whether they are a suitable pet for your available space, time, and resources.
Avoiding Abandonment
Unfortunately, inadequate research and impulse buying can lead owners who can no longer care for their pets. Understanding their growth patterns can help prevent this scenario.
Interaction and Bonding
Bearded dragons can be wonderful companions when they are raised in a suitable environment and given proper care. Providing an adequate living space increases the potential for positive interactions and bonding between you and your pet.
Learning Opportunity
Researching and understanding the growth patterns of bearded dragons is an educational experience. It teaches responsibility, encourages learning about reptile biology, and promotes empathy for the needs of living creatures.
Factors That Influence How Big a Bearded Dragon Can Get
Various elements can impact a bearded dragon’s size. Here are the main factors that contribute to deciding how big a bearded dragon can grow:
Genetics
Similar to all other living beings, genetics have a notable role in deciding how big a bearded dragon can potentially become. The genes inherited from its parents can influence how large it grows.
Diet
The diet of a bearded dragon has a direct impact on its growth and size. A balanced and nutritious diet is essential for proper development. Young bearded dragons require more protein for growth, while adult dragons benefit from a diet that includes more leafy greens and vegetables.
Gender
Gender is another important factor. Generally, male bearded dragons tend to be larger than females. This size difference becomes more pronounced as they mature. Males often have larger heads, broader bodies, and thicker tails than females.
Housing
The size of the enclosure or habitat where a bearded dragon lives can also influence its growth. A larger enclosure allows more movement and exercise, contributing to healthier growth. Proper UVB lighting and temperature gradients within the enclosure are also important for overall health and development.
Health
The growth potential of a bearded dragon can influence its general health and how well it’s doing. Things like keeping it clean, taking it to the vet for check-ups, and catching and treating any illnesses early on can all help a bearded dragon reach its maximum size.
It’s worth mentioning that these aspects are linked together. For example, ensuring the dragon eats well is vital for its overall health, influencing its growth.
How Can I Tell If My Bearded Dragon Is Overweight
You can assess whether your bearded dragon is overweight by considering a few visual and behavioral indicators:
Body Shape: An overweight bearded dragon might have a rounder and bulging appearance around its abdomen and sides. It contrasts with a healthy dragon, which would have a more streamlined body.
Tail: Check the thickness of the tail. An overweight dragon may have a thick, fat tail, while a healthy dragon’s tail would be relatively thinner and tapered.
Mobility: If your bearded dragon has difficulty moving around, climbing or seems lethargic, it could be due to excess weight.
Skin Folds: Examine the skin around the dragon’s abdomen and limbs. If you notice excess folds of skin or fat, it could indicate that your beardie is overweight.
Feeding Habits: Review the feeding habits. Overfeeding, especially with high-fat foods, can contribute to weight gain. Ensure you’re offering an appropriate portion of a balanced diet.
Activity Level: An overweight dragon might be less active than a healthy one. They may spend more time basking and less time exploring their environment.
Breathing: Labored breathing or panting can be a sign of overweight dragons struggling with their weight.
How Can I Tell If My Bearded Dragon Is Underweight
Observing its appearance and behavior involves identifying whether your bearded dragon is underweight. Here are some signs to watch for:
Body Condition: A visibly underweight bearded dragon might have prominent hip bones, a sunken abdomen, and a skinny tail. Its body may appear angular rather than rounded.
Tail: An underweight bearded dragon’s tail will be skinny and lack the healthy plumpness seen in well-nourished dragons.
Visible Bones: If you can easily see the ribs, spine, and other bony structures, it clearly indicates that they are underweight.
Lack of Muscle Mass: An underweight dragon may have little muscle definition and a frail appearance.
Behavioral Changes: Reduced activity, lethargy, and reluctance to move or bask could be signs of an underweight dragon.
Reduced Appetite: A decreased interest in food or a prolonged loss of appetite is often associated with underweight dragons.
Eyes and Skin: Sunken or dull-looking eyes and loose and wrinkled skin can be signs of dehydration and undernourishment.
Stool Appearance: Abnormal or irregular bowel movements might indicate your dragon’s diet is inadequate.
Diet: Ensure you are providing a balanced and nutritious diet. Offer a variety of appropriately sized insects, a mix of vegetables, and any supplements a veterinarian recommends.
Hydration: Make sure your dragon has access to clean water at all times. Proper hydration is crucial for overall health.
Vet Visit: If you’re concerned about your dragon’s weight, consult a reptile veterinarian. They can provide a professional assessment and recommend a suitable plan to help your dragon healthily gain weight.
Feeding Routine: Monitor feeding habits closely. Adjust portion sizes and feeding frequency to help your dragon gain weight.
Remember, any changes to your bearded dragon’s diet or care routine should be under the guidance of a veterinarian experienced with reptiles. It will help ensure you address the underlying causes of underweight and promote your dragon’s well-being.
How Fast Do Bearded Dragons Grow?
Bearded dragons experience significant growth during their initial year of life. Their size progression typically follows these stages:
When they first hatch, bearded dragons measure around 3 inches in length.
As they advance to the baby stage, their length can vary from 3 to 9 inches. During this phase, their diet mainly consists of insects, providing the necessary protein for their development.
Juvenile dragons, usually aged between 3 and 11 months, undergo a remarkable growth spurt, expanding by 1 to 3 inches each month. They transform from 8 or 9 inches to as long as 24 inches during this period. This stage sees the most rapid growth, leading to increased appetite and feeding.
By the time they reach 12 to 18 months of age, adult bearded dragons generally cease growing, although some may continue until 24 months. It’s important to note that this is why adults require a diet higher in vegetables and greens and lower in protein. Failing to adjust their diet accordingly could potentially expose them to the risk of obesity.
When Do Bearded Dragons Stop Growing?
Bearded dragons usually finish their growth phase at about 12 to 18 months of age. Yet, a few individuals might keep developing until they are 24 months old. This transition from active growth to adulthood is an essential phase in their development.
Should I be concerned if my bearded dragon’s growth slows down?
If your bearded dragon’s growth has slowed down, there’s generally no immediate need for worry. Growth rates can vary due to factors like genetics, diet, and habitat. Young dragons grow faster, but this slows as they age. Ensuring a balanced diet with proper insects, vegetables, and occasional fruits is crucial.
Also, make sure the habitat provides the right temperature and UVB lighting. Keep an eye on your dragon’s health—dehydration, illness, or stress can impact growth. Sexual maturity can affect growth, too, with males growing faster initially. Shedding and changes in appetite during this period are normal. If you’re concerned, consult a reptile-experienced vet. Regular monitoring and care will support your bearded dragon’s well-being.
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