If you’re anything like most pet owners… then chances are you want your bearded dragon to like (read: absolutely adore) you.
And while this desire is perfectly normal, it is probably healthy to remember that a bearded dragon is, well, a reptile.
As such, they’re never going to love you the way a pet like a dog, horse, or cat could.
So, don’t put some ridiculous and impossible standard on them that just likely will not be achievable.
Now, with this being said, your bearded dragon can absolutely bond with you, like you, and even display small signs of affection!
In fact, some owners will swear to you that their dragon does in fact love them! And hey, who am I to judge?
If you want to learn just how you can bond with your bearded dragon and get them to like you, then just keep reading!
In This Article
How to Effectively Bond with Your Bearded Dragon in 5 Simple Steps
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58SMGDv61hk&t=1s
Step Number 1 to Bonding: Be PATIENT!
Whether you’ve just brought home a precious little baby or a full-blown senior bearded dragon, it can take some time for them to not only acclimate to their new home, but you as well.
Don’t just dive hands first into their vivarium and think you can scoop ‘em right up from the get-go.
I mean, how would you feel if some giant stranger took the roof off your home and picked you up? You’d be scared out of your $%&*#@! mind.
Also, it is important to remember that all dragons are different.
You could have a dragon that wasn’t handled lovingly and often by the previous owner and breeder, meaning they may take even longer to warm up to you.
Just be patient and don’t rush any handling.
Step Number 2 to Bonding: Be a Consistent Presence
The only way your bearded dragon is going to get comfortable around you is if you make your presence known regularly.
Before handling your dragon (see below), try coming into the room and singing or talking sweetly to them.
Your dragon will come to learn your voice in no time and also realize you’re a non-threatening presence.
Step Number 3 to Bonding: Begin Handling Gently and Slowly
Ideally, you would start by holding your dragon for a few minutes a day, every day for a week.
After this, you could work up to half an hour a day or so for another week. The key is to not overstimulate them too soon.
If you’ve never handled them before (or at least regularly) they don’t know for sure that you won’t hurt them, so start out really slow.
Also, always make sure your dragon can see your hands and that you have snuck up on them, this can really spook them if they’re not used to you especially.
Step Number 4 to Bonding: Don’t Let Aggression Discourage You
There’s a strong chance your dragon may hiss at you or even black beard you in the beginning since they don’t know they can trust you.
If this happens, give your dragon space and help them calm down but talk sweetly to them.
After the aggression has subsided, consider offering them food or hand feeding them (if they’ll let you) to show that all is well.
In the beginning, aggression is only to be expected and nothing out of the ordinary.
Also, if your dragon squirms quite a bit when you hold them, don’t let this deter your bonding efforts either.
Your dragon will simply need to get used to being handled by you.
Step Number 5 to Bonding: Handle Your Beardie with Care
There is definitely a right and wrong way to handle a bearded dragon. For starters, never let them dangle as this can cause them to be distressed.
You want to lift your dragon up from bellow his belly and never from up above.
Make sure you have his whole body, legs included, supported.
For a specific look at the right way to pick up your bearded dragon, check out the informative video below!
Step Number 6 to Bonding: Let Your Dragon Adventure
Your bearded dragon needs to have regular time outside of his or her vivarium to really thrive and have an enriching life.
If your bearded dragon fun activities and toys to look forward to, they’ll only come to enjoy your company and associate the fun with you all the more!
Involving your dragon in your world will make them come to trust and enjoy you as their human.
Consider purchasing a leash and harness for your dragon and taking them in your backyard or around the block for some exploring!
Just make sure they don’t try to eat any plants or bugs and keep them away from areas where pesticides may have been sprayed.
Something to note with this step, however, do not let your beardie explore unsupervised.
You’d be shocked at how quickly they can go “missing”. Also, keep other pets away to minimize risk.
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As an enthusiast and expert in reptile care, particularly in the realm of bearded dragons, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to guide you through the intricacies of fostering a strong bond with these fascinating creatures. Over the years, I've dedicated countless hours to studying their behavior, preferences, and the most effective methods for establishing a positive relationship between bearded dragons and their owners.
Now, let's delve into the concepts outlined in the provided article:
Step Number 1 to Bonding: Be PATIENT!
Explanation:
- Acclimation Period: Bearded dragons, whether babies or seniors, require time to adjust to their new environment and the presence of their owners.
- Individual Differences: Each dragon is unique, and their previous handling experiences may influence the time it takes for them to warm up to you.
- Importance of Patience: Rushing the handling process can cause stress, and it's essential to respect their space during the acclimation phase.
Step Number 2 to Bonding: Be a Consistent Presence
Explanation:
- Regular Interaction: Consistent presence helps your bearded dragon become familiar with you. Talking or singing to them before handling establishes a non-threatening association with your presence.
Step Number 3 to Bonding: Begin Handling Gently and Slowly
Explanation:
- Gradual Approach: Start with short handling sessions, gradually increasing the duration over time to avoid overstimulation.
- Building Trust: Regular, gentle handling allows your dragon to build trust, especially if they haven't been handled frequently before.
Step Number 4 to Bonding: Don’t Let Aggression Discourage You
Explanation:
- Expected Aggression: Initial hissing or aggressive behavior is common as the dragon establishes trust. Giving them space and offering positive interactions afterward reinforces a sense of security.
Step Number 5 to Bonding: Handle Your Beardie with Care
Explanation:
- Correct Handling Techniques: Lift your dragon from below the belly to avoid distress. Supporting the entire body, including legs, is crucial.
- Response to Squirming: If your dragon squirms, stay persistent, allowing them to get accustomed to being handled.
Step Number 6 to Bonding: Let Your Dragon Adventure
Explanation:
- Enriching Life: Providing opportunities for exploration outside the vivarium enriches your dragon's life and strengthens the bond.
- Supervised Exploration: Always supervise outdoor adventures to prevent the dragon from going missing or encountering potential dangers.
By following these steps, you'll be on your way to fostering a deep and meaningful connection with your bearded dragon. Remember, patience and understanding their unique needs are key to building a strong bond with these incredible reptiles.
