How to Feed Bearded Dragons a Healthy Diet

What can I feed bearded dragons? This is one of the most frequently asked questions from first-time reptile owners. Most enthusiasts are aware that these lizards are omnivores, thus needing insects as well as veggies to fulfill their diet. But many keepers are unaware of which plants and insects have the most nutritional value for their pets health. Others may have a grasp on the proper items to offer, but are failing to provide supplements that are critical in promoting a long healthy life.

Vegetables

Beardies should have fresh veggies available at all times to them. Not only do the vegetables possess crucial vitamins, but they also provide hydration to our pet. I always mist my salads with water to boost the hydration value.

Every Day Staples

• Collard, Mustard, Dandelion and Turnip Greens
• Spaghetti, Summer, Acorn, Butternut, Hubbard and Scallop Squash
• Kale
• Escarole
• Cactus Pads
• Endive

Occasional Treats

• Garbanzo, Green, Kidney, Lima and Pinto Beans
• Red, Yellow, Green and Red Bell Peppers
• Red and Green Cabbage
• Okra
• Asparagus
• Snap Peas

Avocado and rhubarb are poisonous and can be fatal to your pet, therefore should never be offered.

Insects

There are several insects that are great for our dragons. Always buy or raise your own insects, never offer wild-caught insects. Wild bugs can carry parasites and even be poisonous to our pets. Always gut-load your insects by feeding them either fruits and veggies that are good for your lizard, or buy specific insect feeds found at pet suppliers.

Every Day Staples

• Phoenix Worms (Calci-Worms)
• Silk Worms
• Dubia Roaches (Illegal in some states)
• Crickets
• Superworms
• Butter Worms
• Hornworms

Stay away from meal worms, especially for younger dragons. They have a hard chitin (shell) that are difficult for beardies to digest.

Fruits

All fruits should be fed only on occasion. Fruits that are very high in sugars should be avoided. You should also peel any fruit that has skin to make them easily digestible.

Occasional Treats

• Apples
• Apricot
• Blue, Straw and Cran-berries (Fresh)
• Cantaloupe
• Mango
• Mandarin Orange
• Pineapple
• Plums
• Watermelon

When you feed bearded dragons, whether it is veggies or insects, you should be dusting with calcium supplements at least 5x a week. A multi-vitamin should be given at least 2x a week also. Always make sure all items are smaller than 3/4 of the dragon's head, or the space between their eyes, to ensure proper digestion, and always have a fresh water dish available. Feed them as much as they will eat within 5-10 minutes and remove any uneaten foods. Stick to these simple guidelines and your beardie will be in tip-top health condition, and eating like a king.

For more in-depth info on what to Feed Bearded Dragons check out Joselyn's website Caring for Bearded Dragon