Feeding Juvenile Bearded Dragons

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Feeding juvenile bearded dragons is a thrilling adventure, filled with a variety of foods and timing schedules. This article will guide you through this fascinating process, offering insights into their unique dietary needs and how to ensure a balanced diet. Stay tuned for a fun-filled exploration of bearded dragon care!

Introduction

Feeding my juvenile bearded dragon, Gilbert, is a journey of discovery and understanding – from the variety of foods to the timing, it’s a fascinating process that I’m thrilled to share with you! If you’re a fellow bearded dragon parent, or perhaps considering becoming one, this guide on feeding juvenile bearded dragons will be a treasure trove of information. So, let’s dive in!

Feeding juvenile bearded dragons can seem complicated, however by following the easy guidelines you will be able to keep your bearded dragon healthy and happy.

Understanding Juvenile Bearded Dragons’ Dietary Needs

Before we delve into the feeding schedule, let’s first understand the unique dietary needs of our young scaly friends, the bearded dragons. Juvenile bearded dragons, those little bundles of energy, have a different diet than their adult counterparts. They need a diet rich in protein to support their rapid growth. This means more bugs, live bugs! But don’t worry, we’ll get into the crawly details later.

When I first started feeding my juvenile bearded dragon, Gilbert, I was surprised to learn how much their diet changes as they grow. Unlike when he was a baby munching mostly on insects, Gilbert started to show more interest in veggies. It was like watching a little kid growing up and learning to love their greens!

Foods to Avoid for Bearded Dragons

Food
Lettuce
Spinach
Insects Captured in the Wild
Fireflies or Insects that Glow
Avocados

The Importance of a Balanced Diet for Feeding Juvenile Bearded Dragons

Just like us, juvenile bearded dragons need a balanced diet to grow healthy and vibrant. A balanced diet for our scaly friends includes a mix of animal-based foods (think insects), plant-based foods (yes, they eat their veggies), and a smattering of fruits. But remember, balance is key. Too much of anything can tip the scales in the wrong direction.

Over time, I’ve learned that feeding a juvenile bearded dragon isn’t just about providing them with food. It’s about understanding their nutritional needs and how they change as they grow. I’ve learned to balance Gilbert’s diet with a mix of insects, vegetables, and occasional fruits, ensuring he gets a variety of nutrients. For anyone new to caring for a juvenile bearded dragon, I’d say, do your research, be patient, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice. It’s a learning process, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding experience.

Plant-Based Foods in a Juvenile Bearded Dragon’s Diet

You might be surprised to know that our carnivorous-looking friends actually love their greens, even when they’re young! Plant-based foods, or “veggies” as I like to call them, should make up a significant part of a juvenile bearded dragon’s diet. Leafy greens like collard greens, dandelion greens, and mustard greens are a big hit with Gilbert. But remember, variety is the spice of life, so mix it up with some bell peppers, squash, and peas too!

Safe Vegetables for Bearded Dragons

Vegetable
Acorn squash
Artichoke heart
Bell peppers (raw)
Bok choy
Butternut squash
Cabbage (raw)
Carrots
Celery
Cucumber (peeled)
Endive
Mustard greens
Yellow squash

Animal-Based Foods in a Juvenile Bearded Dragon’s Diet

While they enjoy their veggies, juvenile bearded dragons also need a good amount of animal-based foods in their diet. This is where the protein comes in. Live bugs like crickets, mealworms, and waxworms are a favorite. But remember, these little crawlers should be no larger than the space between your bearded dragon’s eyes. Too large, and they can cause digestive problems.

The Role of Insects in a Juvenile Bearded Dragon’s Diet

Insects are a crucial part of a bearded dragon’s diet, and Gilbert certainly has his favorites! Crickets, mealworms, and waxworms are his top picks. But it’s not just about feeding them; it’s also about how you feed them. I like to call it “bug hunting” – it’s a great way for Gilbert to exercise and it mimics their natural hunting behavior in the wild.

Safe Insects for Bearded Dragons

Insect	Good for Young Beardies	Good for Adult Beardies
Black Soldier Fly Larvae	Yes	Yes
Butterworms	Yes	Treats
Crickets	Yes	Yes
Dubia Roaches	Yes	Yes
Earthworms	Yes	Yes
Locusts	Yes	Yes
Redworms	Yes	Yes
Superworms	Yes	Treats

The Importance of Fruits for Juvenile Bearded Dragons

Fruits are like sweet treats for bearded dragons, but they should be given in moderation, especially for juveniles. Think of them as the dessert in their diet. Gilbert loves a slice of apple or a few berries now and then. But remember, fruits should make up the smallest portion of their diet.

Safe Fruits for Bearded Dragons

Fruit
Apples
Blackberries
Blueberries
Cherries
Cranberries
Figs
Grapes
Melons
Peaches
Pears
Pineapple
Plum
Prunes
Raisins
Strawberries
Watermelon

The Need for Calcium and Vitamins for Juvenile Bearded Dragons

Calcium and vitamins are essential for a juvenile bearded dragon’s health, especially for their bone structure and growth. I like to dust Gilbert’s food with a calcium and vitamin D supplement to ensure he’s getting what he needs. But remember, it’s possible to have too much of a good thing, so follow the recommended dosage.

Essential Vitamins and Minerals for Bearded Dragons

• Iron
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin D3
• Calcium

Safe Plants for Bearded Dragons

Plant
Basil
Carnations
Chives
Clover
Dandelion greens
Daylilies
Impatiens
Maple leaves
Mint leaves
Oregano
Rose petals
Rosemary (fresh)
Sage
Thyme (fresh)

Hydration: The Role of Water for Juvenile Bearded Dragons

Water plays a vital role in a juvenile bearded dragon’s health, even if they don’t drink it the same way we do. Gilbert gets most of his water from his food, but I also mist his enclosure daily to increase the humidity. And of course, he has a shallow water dish for the occasional sip and soak.

Creating a Feeding Schedule for Juvenile Bearded Dragons

Now that we know what to feed, let’s talk about when to feed – the feeding schedule for juvenile bearded dragons. Gilbert eats two to three times a day, with a mix of insects, veggies, and a bit of fruit. But remember, every bearded dragon is unique, so it’s important to observe and adjust as needed.

Feeding Schedule for Different Life Stages of Bearded Dragons

• Baby Dragons: Need a daily dose of Vitamin D3 and Calcium
• Juvenile Dragons: Need a Vitamin D3 and Calcium supplement with a meal 3-4 times per week
• Adult Dragons: Need a Vitamin D3 and Calcium supplement with a meal once per week

One of the biggest challenges I faced was figuring out the right feeding schedule for Gilbert. Juvenile bearded dragons eat a lot, and I mean A LOT! I remember one day, I was late for his feeding time, and Gilbert was literally climbing the walls of his terrarium. It was a clear sign that I needed to be more consistent with his feeding schedule. From that day on, I made sure to feed him at the same times each day, and it made a huge difference in his behavior and overall health.

When a bearded dragon is young it will need to eat more insects than vegetables because it’s still growing. You should always leave fresh vegetables in the cage, but three times per day you should feed your beardie insects.

Conclusion

Feeding our juvenile bearded dragons can be as fascinating as watching them grow or explore their surroundings. It’s a journey of discovery, understanding, and lots of love. And remember, a healthy diet today means a healthy, happy bearded dragon tomorrow!

Call to Action

If you want to learn more about bearded dragon care, check out the Bearded Dragon Care category. And don’t forget to check out my index page on Bearded Dragon Diet. Happy dragon parenting!

For those of you who are curious about other aspects of bearded dragon diet, you might find our previous posts Feeding insects versus feeding vegetables and Feeding schedule for bearded dragons interesting.

Disclaimer: This article is based on my personal experience and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with a vet for your bearded dragon’s specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Further Reading

Caring for the Bearded Dragon – West Toowoomba vet surgery