Bearded Dragon Enclosure Guide

Bringing home a bearded dragon is exciting — but the way you set up their enclosure will decide how healthy, happy, and stress-free your dragon will be. Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting it right from day one.

✅ Enclosure Size (The Right Space)

• Babies (0–6 months): 90 cm x 45 cm x 45 cm (about 3 ft x 18 in x 18 in).
• Juveniles (6–12 months): 120 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm (4 ft x 2 ft x 2 ft).
• Adults (12+ months): 120–150 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm (4–5 ft x 2 ft x 2 ft).

Going bigger isn’t always better — too much empty space can stress young dragons. Stick to the recommended sizes.

☀️ Lighting & UVB

• Always provide UVB lighting to prevent metabolic bone disease.
• We recommend a T5 UVB tube, 10–12% output, running across 70% of the enclosure length.
• Position the UVB inside the tank, not on top of mesh, for maximum strength.
• Replace UVB tubes every 12 months, even if they still light up.
• Alternative: Spiral UVB globes (10–12%) can be used but are less effective — tubes are always better.

🔥 Heating & Basking

• Dragons need a basking spot and a cool side.
• Basking spot: 40–42°C (104–108°F) for babies, 38–40°C (100–104°F) for adults.
• Cool side: 26–29°C (78–85°F).
• Nighttime: allow a drop, but not below 18°C (64°F).
• Use a digital thermometer with a probe for accurate readings. Avoid unreliable stick-on dials.

🪵 Substrate (Flooring Options)

• Babies: paper towel, reptile carpet, or tiles — safe, hygienic, easy to clean.
• Adults: tiles, paper, or packed clay substrates.
• Avoid: loose sand, wood chips, or calcium sand — these can cause impaction and serious health issues.

🌿 Furnishings & Enrichment

• Include branches and basking logs under the UVB.
• Provide a hide/cave on the cool side.
• Add rocks, climbing structures, and platforms to mimic natural terrain.
• A shallow water bowl is optional — most dragons don’t drink from bowls but will lick droplets when misted.

🧽 Cleaning & Maintenance

• Spot-clean daily (remove poop and uneaten food).
• Full clean every 2–4 weeks:
  • Remove dragon.
  • Wash enclosure and furnishings with reptile-safe disinfectant.
  • Rinse thoroughly and dry before replacing.
• Replace UVB and heat bulbs as needed.

Final Word
A well-set up enclosure is the foundation of your dragon’s health and happiness. Get the size, heat, and lighting right — and you’ll have a thriving dragon for years to come.