How Big Do Bearded Dragons Get?
Bearded dragon lovers, get ready! Bearded dragons are popular pets for their easy care and enjoyable personality. They can grow up to 24 inches long, making them one of the lengthiest breeds out there! The docile nature of these pets and their ease of care make them popular pets. Find out more about their size and growth by reading on!
How big do bearded dragons get
There are a few factors that determine how big bearded dragons grow, but in general, bearded dragons can reach about 2-3 feet in length.
There are several factors that can affect a bearded dragon’s size, one of which is its species. For example, the inland bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) is one of the largest species and can grow up to 24 inches in length. On the other hand, the pygmy beardie (Pogona henry lawson) is one of the smaller species, only growing to be about 8-10 inches long.
Another factor that can affect a bearded dragon’s size is its age. Baby beardies are very small, often only a few inches long at birth. Although they grow rapidly, they can reach their full size within a few years after they are born.
If you’re a new beardie owner, you’re probably brushing up on all the information you can get your hands on. A bearded dragon requires a lot of space for its growth to be successful. Your young dragon will grow big and powerful, just as it should, thanks to the right surroundings and a well-balanced diet.
Facts about Bearded Dragons
Bearded dragons are a type of desert lizard found in Australia and popularized by humans during the 1990s.
1. One of the most popular pets amongst lizards is the bearded dragon, which is known for its friendly nature and ease of care
2. They come from a desert climate, so they need a lot of light and heat to stay healthy
3. In the wild, bearded dragons eat mostly insects, but as pets, they can also eat pellets or other lizard food
4. They like to bask in the sun or under a heat lamp, and they often drink water from a bowl or showerhead
5. Bearded dragons make great pets for people who want an interesting and unusual animal to care for
Why Bearded Dragons Make Great Pets
They have a top speed of 9 miles per hour. Even while humans can run far faster, catching your tiny beardie once they take up the pace might be difficult.
Swimming is one of their greatest passions. Bath time will be a highlight for your bearded dragon. Bearded dragons are masters of the water. They can swim through it with speed and accuracy using their body shape, and movements to control how fast or slow they go in different directions!
They communicate by waving and bobbing their heads.
You may have seen videos of cuddly bears. You might think that head bobbing is just weird behavior, but it’s actually a form of communication. The move has been interpreted as aggressive in some cases – like when an angry bearded dragon stretches his neck out wide to show you he means business!
Within the species, breeders have sought to produce a variety of breeds. They have the ability to climb trees. Beardies are exceptional tree climbers due to their general structure and sticky claws. As a result, they are able to crawl up a variety of surfaces in your home, including those that are hard to reach.
They are laying hens. Bearded dragons reproduce by laying eggs because they are cold-blooded species. They sting with a bit of poison. Because the venom beardies produce has no effect on humans, this information isn’t well known. Beardies, on the other hand, have a weak poison that kills their victim.
It is unlikely that their tails will be able to grow back. Unlike certain other lizards, bearded dragons cannot regrow a severed tail to its original shape. They are gentle giants. Bearded dragons live up to 15 years, making them one of the longest-lived reptiles. They’re also easygoing and don’t require much care or attention!
As long as you provide your bearded dragon with the necessary food, heat, and light, it will be healthy and thrive. You don’t need to do anything special for them, and they don’t require a lot of attention.
Keeping a bearded dragon as your pet is sure to be the highlight of any strange and unique animals you have in mind. They are low maintenance and easy to take care of, which makes them ideal for busy people or those who don’t have a lot of experience with reptiles. If you’re looking for a pet that is both unique and low-maintenance, a bearded dragon is a perfect choice.
Juvenile Bearded Dragon Size
Size definitely matters when it comes to juvenile bearded dragons. Let me tell you all about them! Most juvenile bearded dragons will reach their full size within 18 to 24 months, but it can be as short as 12-18 months if they’re isolated from other lizards or kept in an aquarium too small for their size. However, some may take up to 36 months to grow fully.
On average, most juveniles will be around 10 inches in length when they reach maturity. however, some can grow as long as 12 or 14 inches. And although they are not considered giants, these lizards can still weigh quite a bit – anywhere from 1/2 pounds to almost 2 pounds.
-The age of a juvenile is between two and seven months.
-From 8 grams to 280 grams, they will grow!
-Each month, juveniles grow one to three inches.
So if you’re interested in owning a juvenile bearded dragon, be prepared for a long-term commitment. These little guys may take a while to reach their full size, but they’re definitely worth the wait! They are adorable and friendly, but they also make great companions for life.
Baby Bearded Dragon Size
When it comes to baby bearded dragons, size definitely does not matter! First-time reptile owners will love these little guys. How big do they get when they reach full size? You’ll find out if you keep reading!
Baby bearded dragons grow quickly and can reach their full size within 6 to 12 months. They typically weigh around 30 grams at maturity, although some may weigh as much as 45 grams. And although they may not be very big, they are still lizards and should not be handled without caution.
Bearded dragons in their infancy require high protein ratios. Herbs and insects, not salads should be fed to them. They also need a basking bulb along with a T5 UVB tube lamp on top for optimal lighting conditions outside of their cage’s mesh lid at least six inches away from where you would assume the highest point in order to keep it cool enough during the summer months when temperatures soar up there!!
Adult Bearded Dragon size
Once they reach adulthood, bearded dragons will slowly start to grow larger. Most adults will reach their full size within 3 to 5 years. And although they are not considered giants, these lizards can still weigh quite a bit – anywhere from 1/2 pounds to almost 2 pounds.
An adult bearded dragon should be 12-18 inches in length and will require a diet of mostly insects with occasional fruits or vegetables.
The diet of the bearded dragon is very important to their health. You should feed them at least once every two days, and they need adequate calcium levels in order for strong bones that can withstand storms when adult dragons begin looking forward towards sexual maturity around four years old (or earlier). Be sure you offer plenty of vitamin D sources like lizards catching sunbeams on cool fall mornings because this will help keep your pet happy!
Growth Rate of the Bearded Dragon
The growth rate of bearded dragons is determined by a variety of environmental and genetic factors. But what’s the average growth rate for these lizards?
On average, bearded dragons will grow 1-3 inches per month. However, this varies depending on the individual lizard. Depending on their developmental stage, some may grow more quickly than others. And although most will reach their full size within 18 to 24 months, some may take up to 36 months to fully mature.
Here’s a quick growth chart to give you an idea of how big your bearded dragon will be at different stages in its life:
Size and Growth Chart
Age | Weight | Body length |
Hatchlings (0-3 Months) | 0.2 -3.67 ounces | 3-8 inches |
Juveniles (3-11 Months) | 2.72 -15.9 ounces | 8-19 inches |
Sub-Adults (12-18 Months) | 10.5 -17.6 ounces | 16-21 inches |
Full Adults (18+ Months) | 10.9 -17.8 ounces | 16-23 inches |
What size will my bearded dragon grow to be?
Your bearded dragon will grow to its full size in 17-25 months, depending on factors like its genetic makeup and environmental conditions. And although they are not considered giants, these lizards can still weigh quite a bit – anywhere from 1/2 pounds to almost 2 pounds. An adult bearded dragon should be 12-23 inches in length.
Several factors determine the size of a bearded dragon
Bearded dragon size can be determined by a number of factors, including
· Genetics – Some bearded dragons grow bigger than others.
· Environmental Factors – Things like temperature, humidity, and diet can all play a role in how big your bearded dragon gets.
· Age – Younger lizards will typically grow faster than older ones.
· Gender – A male bearded dragon is usually bigger than a female bearded dragon.
. Housing -The adult size of a Bearded Dragon is influenced by its surroundings. Their housing, in particular. You must ensure that their enclosure has sufficient space. A small tank can cause stunted growth because your dragon won’t have enough room to grow or exercise. You must also ensure that their tank has the proper illumination.
You’ll also have to feed your lizard a calcium supplement with vitamin D, and the lighting needs to be sufficient. If you don’t provide enough heat or UVA/B rays for him then he won’t absorb nutrients properly – not only will it affect his growth but his quality of life as well!
This will impair their metabolic activity, potentially leading to metabolic bone disease.
. Husbandry- The way you care for your pet can also play a role in their size.
For example, if you don’t provide them with enough food or the right kind of food, they may not reach their full potential size.
Additionally, if their enclosure is too small or doesn’t have the proper lighting, this can also stunt their growth.
To make sure your bearded dragon grows to be as big and healthy as a pet, it’s important that you provide them with the proper care. Give them plenty of space to roam and exercise, as well as a calcium-rich diet with appropriate lighting. They will be able to reach their full potential if you do this.
Dietary Guidelines for Optimal Growth
What your bearded dragon eats can also play a role in its size. A healthy diet is essential for optimal growth and development.
Bearded dragons are carnivores, so their diet should consist mostly of meat. This can include insects, such as crickets, mealworms, and earthworms. You can also feed them pinkie mice or small lizards.
In addition to meat, bearded dragons also need plenty of fresh vegetables. This can include things like collard greens, kale, mustard greens, and endive.
It’s important to provide your bearded dragon with a varied diet to ensure they get all the nutrients for healthy growth. Be sure to offer both meat and vegetables at every meal, and supplement their diet with a calcium powder to ensure they’re getting enough of this essential mineral. Your bearded dragon will grow as large as possible if you adhere to these dietary guidelines.
Mentioned Items
- A commercial bearded dragon food product
- Crickets\sMealworms
- Roaches
- Superworms
- Greens that are dark and leafy
- Vegetables in season
- Fruits from the tropics
Things to Avoid During Feeding
- Insects collected in the wild (even if you’re hungry)
- Fireflies\sAvocado
- Garlic
- Onion
- Eggplant
- Lettuce iceberg
Exercise for Optimal Growth
In addition to a healthy diet, exercise is also important for optimal growth.
Bearded dragons are naturally active lizards, so they need plenty of space to roam and explore. A good rule of thumb is to provide them with an enclosure that is at least 2-3 times their size.
In addition to a spacious enclosure, you should also provide your bearded dragon with plenty of toys and climbing structures. This will help them stay active and exercise their muscles.
By providing a diet rich in nutrients and plenty of space to exercise, you can help your bearded dragon reach their full-size potential.
What is the growth rate of a bearded dragon?
With a quick growth rate, bearded dragons can reach up to 11 inches in their first year. After that, they will slow down but still grow several millimeters each year (a bit more than half an inch).
To ensure that your bearded dragon grows as quickly and healthily as possible, it’s important to provide them with the proper diet and care.
At 24 months old your bearded dragon will have reached its full size.
Why Is My Bearded Dragon Not Growing?
There are a number of reasons why your bearded dragon may not be growing as fast as you’d like.
One possibility is that they’re not getting enough food. Ensure you’re feeding them a diet rich in protein and calcium. You should also offer them fresh vegetables at every meal.
Another possibility is that their enclosure is too small or doesn’t have the proper lighting. Be sure to provide them with an enclosure that is at least 2-3 times their size, and ensure that their tank has the proper illumination. Certain bone problems can stifle growth, therefore this should be done in tandem with a healthy diet before it becomes a problem.
Parasitic infection—parasitic infections are spread by insects. Parasites stealing nutrients from your growing lizard might have a negative impact on its overall development.
If you’re unsure of what could be causing your bearded dragon’s slow growth, it’s best to consult with a reptile veterinarian for guidance. They can help you troubleshoot the problem and get your bearded dragon back on track to reach its full size.
With the right diet and exercise, your bearded dragon can grow to be 25 inches or even larger!
Symptoms of Overweight or Underweight in Bearded Dragons?
It’s important to monitor your bearded dragon’s weight and ensure they’re staying healthy.
If your bearded dragon is overweight, you’ll likely notice that they’re having difficulty moving around and are a bit sluggish. Their skin may also feel particularly greasy.
If your bearded dragon is underweight, it will likely be very active and have a protruding backbone. If you have a bearded dragon, you may be wondering how big it will grow. Bearded dragons can reach up to 24 inches in length, making them one of the larger reptiles kept as pets.
While they are typically docile by nature, bearded dragons can require a fair amount of care. Proper diet and exercise are essential for keeping your bearded dragon healthy and preventing them from becoming overweight.
A healthy beardie will have well-defined muscles and their bones should not be visible through their skin. If you are concerned about your bearded dragon’s weight, it is best to consult with a reptile veterinarian for guidance. With proper care, your bearded dragon can grow to their full potential and become a beloved member of your family
A bearded dragon’s diet should consist of a variety of items, including commercial food, crickets, mealworms, roaches, super worms, dark leafy greens, and seasonal vegetables. Fruits from the grocery store can also be offered as a treat.
In addition to a spacious enclosure, you should also provide your bearded dragon with plenty of toys and climbing structures. This will help them stay active and exercise their muscles.
Underweight Bearded Dragons
- Legs and tails are frail.
- Hip bones that protrude
- The body is little and the head is large.
- Fat pads that have sunk
- Rib cage protrusion
Overweight Bearded Dragons
- A big, round midsection
- Double chins
- Thickness around the tail
Bearded dragons that are a healthy weight will have slim bodies and heads with legs that are of equal size. Their tails should be long and thin. If you think your bearded dragon is either overweight or underweight, it’s best to consult with a reptile veterinarian for guidance.
Healthy Bearded Dragons
- A long and slender body
- Thin legs that are of equal size
- A long and thin tail
- From openings, there is no discharge
What is the impact of gender on their size?
Female bearded dragons are typically smaller than males. It all depends on how big they are, what type of shape their bodies have, and where the reproductive organs are located in relation to other parts of their anatomy- which will determine birth rate! If you’re not sure about this aspect either then I recommend consulting with an experienced veterinarian.
They can help you determine the sex of your pet and provide guidance on how to care for it accordingly.
How long does a bearded dragon live on average?
Bearded dragons typically live between 8 and 12 years. Many people are unaware that bearded dragons can live up to 20 years. The key factors in their long life span are clean environments and nutritious diets, which will help you take better care of them over time!
The key to a long and healthy life for your bearded dragon is providing them with the proper care.
Improper Tank Setup
It is critical for a bearded dragon to be able to move freely within its tank. Physical activity promotes strong and healthy bone formation. Inactivity, stress, and obesity can all be caused by improper tank setup.
Obesity can cause stunted growth or weight loss in bearded dragons. A bearded dragon cannot explore and stay active in a tank that is too small or does not provide a stimulating environment. A tank that is too huge, on the other hand, might be stressful, resulting in a loss of appetite and weight loss.
Juveniles and adults should be kept in a 75-gallon tank, while babies should be kept in a 10-25 gallon tank. To keep your bearded dragon happy and healthy, make sure you have the right temperature in its tank. The basking spot should be around 95-110 degrees Fahrenheit with a cool side just below 75 or 85 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal captive-bred dragons that come from breeders who take care of them properly before sale!
The tank should also have a UVB light to help your bearded dragon absorb calcium and prevent metabolic bone disease.
There should be several hiding spots for your bearded dragon to hide in and a variety of toys to play with. Be sure to change the placement of the toys and decorations regularly to keep your bearded dragon stimulated.
Providing a heat lamp is crucial for your bearded dragon’s growth at all stages of life.
Heat will encourage physical activity and fast digestion.
Their tank should have a temperature gradient of 85 to 100°F. The warmer area should be designed for basking and the cooler area designed for shading.
If your tank is too cold your bearded dragon will refuse to eat which will result in weight loss.
Summary
Bearded dragons should grow to be 16-24 inches long and weigh between 380 – 500 grams when grown.
Babies are born weighing only four grams and measuring three inches in length. Each month, they should gain 1 to 2 inches and 10 to 50 grams.
Your lizard will develop quicker than ever as a juvenile! Each month, juveniles should gain 1 to 3 inches and 60 to 80 grams.
A bearded dragon is considered fully grown when it reaches the age of 12 months. After eighteen months, they will not grow much.
A bearded dragon may swiftly mature into an active and healthy adult with the right nutrition and tank set.
In the end, we hope this article has helped you to better understand the size and growth rate of your bearded dragon.
Please remember that these are only averages, and your bearded dragon may grow at a different rate. Be sure to consult with a reptile veterinarian if you have any concerns about your bearded dragon’s health or development. I hope this article has been helpful!