How to Entertain your Pet Bearded Dragon
Like other pets, bearded dragons can benefit from having toys to play with and activities to engage in. Providing enrichment is important for your pets happiness and health.
So what are some things you can do to provide that stimulation?
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First up…toys! The following toys are affordable and sure to be fun for both young and old bearded dragons…
A Ball
- ULTRA BOUNCE BALL: This ball toy for dogs entices play withhigh impact bouncing! Play fetch at the lake or pool thanks to the lightweight, buoyant design. Compatible with Chuckit! ball launcher
- TOUGH & DURABLE: Rubber ball for dogs has a textured surface & a thick rubber core for aggressive chewers yet is soft on dog's mouths
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Many dragons love to lunge and “attack” balls. Some bearded dragons will even chase after the ball when it rolls away. Balls are a great source of exercise for your pet, making them the perfect option for a little workout. Its recommended to sit in an open area, such as a living room. Playing with a ball is such a simple and easy way to entertain your reptile.
Laser Pointers
That’s right, you can entertain your bearded dragon with a laser pointer. It is suspected that they mistake the laser as a bug, however, because of this there have been comments saying that some bearded dragons will get bored of it after realizing its not a bug.
Tunnels
A tunnel can be a fun accessory for your adult beardies playtime space. Tunnels can be a fun way to explore and have fun. For an additional activity you can even buy a cat wand and drag it through the tunnel to give them something to chase or just use the cat wand as another source of enertainment.
*You could also put some insects inside. (make sure they don’t escape!)
Here are some fun cage accessories you can add to make their enclosure a little more interesting…
Hammocks
Bearded Dragons love to lounge, so why not give them something comfortable to lay on? A hammock is a great addition to your bearded dragon enclosure.
Excavator Clay
Excavator clay can make an awesome addition to your enclosure. With this clay you can sculpt out tunnels, hides, etc. It’s super fun if you are into that kind of stuff, plus its really easy. All you do is add a bit of water to the substrate and begin sculpting. Best part is… you can reshape it! Meaning you only have to buy it once, saving you more money in the long run. Excavator clay can create enrichment for not only your bearded dragon, but you too!
Give them a Stuffy
Some owners have said that their reptile finds it comforting to have a stuffy to cuddle up with in their habitat. However, if your bearded dragon doesn’t respond to it being there, feel free to remove the plush from their enclosure.
Image Credit= Reptile.guide +Daily Mail
Finally some activities. There are many things you can do that doesn’t include toys! As an added bonus, some of the following activities will also provide your dragon with exercise as well!
Go on a walk
Going on a walk is a really great activity for you and your beardie. If you attach a harness and a leash to your pet, you’ll be able to walk almost anywhere in a safe manner. You should try to avoid areas where there might be dogs and woody-areas to stay as safe as possible. Another thing to be aware of is the temperature. A suitable temperature to bring them outside is about 26-32 °C (80-90°F).
*If it’s too hot to hold your hand on the pavement, its too hot for your bearded dragon
For some more info on walking your bearded dragon watch this video…
Let Them Swim
*Not all bearded dragons like swimming. Don’t force your bearded dragon to swim if they are showing signs of distress.
With swimming, it is important that you are watching them at all times to ensure they are happy and safe. A kiddie pool is the perfect option for on nice warm days. They are a great size for beardies and are a fun source of entertainment.
Image Credit= Youtube- Heather Wilson
If you want, you can even purchase a floatie for them to rest/climb on. (They can even work in the bath!) Another option would be to put rocks inside to act as “islands” when your bearded dragon wants a break or decides to bask in the sunlight.
**Try to avoid using water that is too hot/cold. Room temperature water works best.
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Let Them Watch TV
Many people have said that their bearded dragon enjoyed watching television. Take out your bearded dragon and let them watch the TV or simply place a laptop, ipad, iphone infront of their cage and let them enjoy!
*Make sure the volume isn’t too loud. Especially if your beardie is still in their enclosure and can’t escape the sound.
Snuggle Time!
Many bearded dragons like to snuggle up in a warm fuzzy blanket. So why not give them that luxury while you snuggle up with each other. After a long day sometimes all you need is a little cuddle with your little friend and watch some TV.
Image Credit= loiter.co
Go for a Drive
Bearded dragons love to hang out with their owners. Some people even decide to take their dragon on a drive with them. Your bearded dragon will appreciate the sunshine, fresh air, and new scenery!
*Make sure they are secure so they don’t fall
Let them “Hunt”
If you have an open area and don’t mind letting some bugs loose, this one will be a great activity for your beardie. This activity will allow your bearded dragon to harness their natural hunting instinct to hunt down their food. The best places to do this would either be on an open patio or in short grass.
*Make sure the grass hasn’t been treated with any pesticides/harmful chemicals!
That’s it!
If your interested in taking pictures of your reptile consider reading our article called How to Take Amazing Photos of your Pet with a Phone (Tips and Tricks)
