How to Set Up a Bearded Dragon's Enclosure

Bearded dragons are wonderful pets that require little experience, but it's important that a pet owner knows how to set up their enclosure. These instructions will explain everything you need for your bearded dragon to be happy and healthy.

• Tank
• Extension Cord
• Heating light
• UVB light
• Substrate or sand
• Heating Mat
• Food and water bowl
• Thermometer
• Hygrometer
• Decorative things

It's important to buy a tank that is big enough for the bearded dragon. A baby bearded dragon needs at least a 20 gallon tank. An adult needs at least a 50 gallon tank, but 75 and up is ideal. These tanks are available at any pet store or online.

Bearded dragons are reptiles, so it's very important that they have a light to keep them warm. This light is called a heating light. Bearded dragons also need a UVB light. These lights help the bearded dragon produce vitamin D.

After buying the lights, plug them up to an extension cord or surge protector. Place the heating lamp either on the right side or the left side of the tank. It's important a bearded dragon has a hot side and a cool side inside of their tank.

After plugging the lights in, place substrate or sand into the tank. Both options are safe, but buy a scooper is needed if the tank has sand. After placing the substrate or sand into the tank, put your bearded dragon in their tank.

Take off the sticker on the heating mat and place it under the tank. It's important not to place it inside of the tank because bearded dragons are heavy sleeper and could burn their stomach.

Place the food and water bowl into the tank. Place the water bowl in the cool side of the tank.

Take the stickers off of the back of the thermometer and hygrometer. Place them at the end of the tank away from the heating lamp.

Bearded dragons love the climb on things and hide, so it's important they have things that will let them do that. Put things like a large cave or a log inside of the tank. Hammocks are also a good option.