If you can imagine living surrounded by glass then you know how a bearded dragon feels living in a terrarium. You may even find your bearded dragon scratching at the glass from time to time. This behavior is generally associated with restlessness and boredom.
As a bearded dragon owner you want to keep your reptile friend entertained and have fun with him as well.
You may be asking, “What type of fun activities can I do with my bearded dragon?”.
Here are five fun-packed activities for bearded dragons to keep them from getting bored while also strengthening your relationship.
Take Your Bearded Dragon for a Walk
A great way to get your bearded dragon out and about is to use a special leash and take him for a stroll.
This is an excellent activity for getting in a little exercise for yourself and some get-away time for your bearded dragon.
A walk along the beach, or around your local park are always fun ideas. You will also be the talk of the place when folks see that adorable bearded dragon on a leash.
Take Your Bearded Dragon for a Ride
Do you ever just hop in your car and go for a joy ride on a beautiful day?
Take your bearded dragon next time!
Many bearded dragons love a good car ride. Just make sure you keep him on a leash and safely secured within the vehicle. It’s a good idea to possibly keep him in a Kritter Keeper while in a moving vehicle just for safety purposes.
Always provide clean, dechlorinated water and a couple snacks while out on your adventure, especially if it will be for several hours.
If it is during the cooler months of the year make sure you keep the temperatures in the vehicle warm. You don’t want your bearded dragon to remain in cool temperatures for an extended time.
Take Your Bearded Dragon for a Swim
Who doesn’t love a nice swim on a hot summer day?
Most bearded dragons love playing around in the water. It’s a great way for them to have some fun while also getting hydrated.
A large plastic storage bin that is at least twice as long as your bearded dragon makes for a perfect swimming hole. A small kiddie pool works well, too.
Make sure the water is at least 80°F and no deeper than the bearded dragon’s elbows (or knees). Dechlorinate the water using ReptiSafe, or similar water conditioner, if using tap water. You can also use spring water, but avoid using distilled water.
Place a couple small toys in the water for him to play with. A small rubber duck, or similar toy would be perfect. On very warm days place the swimming hole outdoors so he can play in the natural sunlight.
Always supervise your bearded dragon during the swimming activity
Give Your Bearded Dragon a Ball
Although a bearded dragon may not play with a ball the same way a dog might, it’s still a good idea to give your bearded dragon a small ping pong ball, or small rubber bouncy ball, to play with. Some bearded dragons may take to a ping pong ball and some may not – it really depends on the dragon.
Some like to take the ball and push it around, or nudge it to and fro with its snout. Try to find a ball that is colorful to entice your bearded dragon to check it out and play with it.
This could give you and your beardie hours of fun entertainment!
Make sure the ball is not small enough that it could possibly fit into your bearded dragon’s mouth. You want to avoid possible choke and impaction issues
Handle Your Bearded Dragon
One of the most fun activities for bearded dragons is interaction with its owner. It’s a good idea to try to pet and handle your bearded dragon for at least an hour each day. This will encourage your bearded dragon to trust you and feel safe with you.
Gently pick your bearded dragon up by slowly sliding your hand under its belly. Gently wrap your fingers around its mid-section with your fore finger under its chest. Slowly begin to raise your bearded dragon up and out of the enclosure. If the beardie begins to squirm to get away do not increase your grasp. Simply let him go and try again in a few minutes.
Once you begin lifting him out of the terrarium use both hands in case he tries to jump away suddenly. You don’t want your bearded dragon to fall from this distance. It could result in a broken limb.
Sit down with your bearded dragon and place him on your lap. He will probably start checking things out by sticking out his tongue and “licking” things. That’s their way of investigating to see if everything is okay.
Gently stroke the head, under the chin and down their back in gentle, slow movements.
You can even place them on the floor and let them run around a bit, but here’s a few things to remember:
- It’s best to let bearded dragons roam around in a controlled environment. If there are places to hide they will find it (ex., behind the TV, under the couch, etc.).
- Avoid letting bearded dragons run around carpeted rooms. Most carpets contain almost invisible strands that can get around their limbs and toes. These strands can cut off circulation and cause the toe or limb to eventually fall off. Hardwood or concrete floors are best.
- Make sure the area is free of other pets that can attack your bearded dragon, such as cats or dogs.
- It’s a very good idea to allow your bearded dragon to roam around some after it has gone to the potty. You don’t want to clean poop up off your beautiful floors (or off yourself).
- Make sure to always wash your hands well with a good hand sanitizer after handling any reptile.
- Always supervise your bearded dragon while it is roaming around. Never leave it in a room unattended.
The most important thing is to have fun with your bearded dragon, but keep its safety at the forefront. Experiment some to find out what he likes and what he doesn’t like.
If at any time your bearded dragon begins showing signs of stress, end the activity and place him back in his terrarium.
What are some fun activities you do with your bearded dragon?
