Your bearded dragon will take pleasure in this cleansing procedure if you follow this bearded dragon bath guide. The experience should be hassle free for both of you.
Allow me to help out and share my own experience at the end of this article.
Bearded Dragon Bath Guide
Help bathe your bearded dragon by applying these 11 tips:
- Even a few inches of water can cause bearded dragons to drown.
- The water should be between half and an inch deep for a young lizard.
- In around 1-2 inches of water, adult bearded dragons can take a bath.
- Give your pet lizard something to climb on if he so desires, such as a rock or a towel that has been folded up.
- Find a shallow container or sink that is big enough for your bearded dragon to fit in without being cramped.
- They should be able to climb in and out with ease, therefore it should be shallow enough.
- Put water in the container that is between 85 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place your bearded dragon in the water and allow them to soak for ten to fifteen minutes. This enables them to maintain proper hydration by allowing water to enter their vent.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or cloth to carefully clean your bearded dragon’s skin during the bath, paying specific attention to the areas around the vent and under the chin.
- Dry your bearded dragon with a fresh towel to pat it gently dry.
- Never leave your bearded dragon alone in the bathtub.
What Temperature Should I Bathe My Bearded Dragon In?
Your bearded dragon should bathe in water that is maximum 90–100°F (32–38°C) in temperature. This will reflect the heated conditions they are accustomed to in their native environment.
A thermometer may be used to monitor the water’s temperature to make sure it is within the proper range. Your bearded dragon should not be exposed to water that is hotter than 104°F (40°C).
Additionally, be careful not to let the water become too cold while giving your pet a wash because this might stress them out. Keep an eye on your bearded dragon when giving them a bath to make sure they are safe and not in danger of drowning.
For mature bearded dragons, the water should be shallow (no more than 1-2 inches), and there should be something stable they can climb on to get out.
Can I Bathe My Bearded Dragon in Tap Water?
Yes. You may give your bearded dragon a wash with tap water as long as it’s OK for drinking. Tap water may include chemicals like:
- fluoride
- chlorine
- irritants that might hurt or irritate your bearded dragon’s skin.
You may apply a water conditioner to neutralize the chemicals or leave the water out for a few hours to let the chlorine evaporate to make sure the water is healthy for your pet.
For the bearded dragon’s bath, it’s also advised to use lukewarm water that’s between 90 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit because too hot or too cold water might be stressful for them.
How Long Should a Bearded Dragon Bath?
Depending on what the bath is for, a bearded dragon’s time in the water will vary.
A bath can last anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes for normal hygienic needs. The time can be increased to 20 to 30 minutes if the bath is being taken for medical reasons, such as treating mites or helping with shedding.
- Baths should typically last 10 to 15 minutes.
- 20–30 minutes might pass during a medical bath.
- Always keep an eye on your bearded dragon when it’s in the water.
- Use a secure bath product and warm water only.
- When handling your bearded dragon during the bath, exercise gentleness.
- After the bath, don’t forget to completely dry your bearded dragon to reduce the danger of infections.
How Often Should I Bathe My Baby Bearded Dragon?
I bathed my young bearded dragon two to three times a week for five to ten minutes each time. This will assist them in maintaining optimum hydration and skin-shedding.
To prevent juvenile dragons from drowning, keep an eye on them when they’re taking a bath. Additionally, remember to clean the bathroom after each use to stop the formation of bacteria.
In addition, keeping in mind the following while bathing a young bearded dragon:
- Use warm (85–90 °F) water.
- Avoid using any shampoo or soap.
- Avoid placing any bath toys or things that might be consumed or be harmful.
- Allow your bearded dragon to thoroughly dry off after the bath before putting them back in their habitat.
Be kind and understanding since some newborn bearded dragons may not initially appreciate taking baths, but with encouragement they can come to enjoy it.
Can You Bathe a Bearded Dragon When Shedding?
When your bearded dragon is shedding, you can wash it. In fact, taking a bath can assist your dragon shed its skin since it can help to soften and remove the old skin. It’s crucial to check that the depth and water temperature are suitable for your dragon’s size. To aid in the shedding process, you may also add a tiny amount of coconut oil or a shedding aid to the bath. Make careful to keep an eye on your bearded dragon throughout the bath to prevent stress or agitation. Give your dragon a warm, dry place to relax after a bath, and gently dry it off with a towel.
What Happens if You Don’t Bathe Your Bearded Dragon?
Your bearded dragon may suffer from these five problems if you don’t give them baths frequently.
1. Constipation
Taking a warm bath might stimulate bowel movements and prevent constipation.
2. Dehydration
Bearded dragons’ skin absorbs water when they wash, keeping them hydrated. If they don’t take regular showers, they could become dehydrated.
3. Skin infections
Bearded dragons may get skin infections if they are not regularly bathed. Soaking removes dead skin and prevents the growth of dangerous microorganisms.
4. Shedding issues
The old skin may get dry and sticky if your bearded dragon is shedding but isn’t getting regular baths.
5. Behavior issues
Regular washing can help your bearded dragon relax and maintain calm. Without them, they might become irate or aggressive.
It’s important to give your bearded dragon regular bathing in order to maintain its health and welfare.
Bearded Dragon Bath Toys
Because bearded dragons are clever creatures that can become bored, including bath toys in their routine might make it more fun for them.
Here are some suggestions for bath toys for bearded dragons:
- Floating balls
- Sponge
- Water-safe mirrors
- Small plastic plants
- Water-safe rocks
Your bearded dragon may enjoy pushing around little rubber balls that float in the water. They can also climb on and play with clean sponges. Some bearded dragons like to check themselves out in the mirror.
You may give your bearded dragon a more aesthetically pleasing bath by adding a few small plastic plants to the water. Bearded dragon could climb and investigate by adding a few tiny pebbles to the bath.
Always keep an eye on your bearded dragon when taking a bath, and take away any toys that might provide a choking risk.
Bearded Dragon Bath Behavior
Understanding the many behaviors that bearded dragons could display when bathing will help you keep your pet secure and comfortable. During a bearded dragon bath, keep an eye out for the following typical behaviors:
- Water consumption: Bearded dragons may hydrate themselves by drinking water while bathing.
- Pooping: Bearded dragons could poop when taking a bath, thus it’s crucial to clear the water right afterwards.
Bearded dragons may spend some time soaking in the water to help soften their skin and get ready to shed. They may also utilize bath time as a chance to unwind and reduce stress.
You can make sure your bearded dragon is content, healthy, and comfortable during their bath time by paying attention to their bathing activities.
How Often Should You Bathe a Bearded Dragon?
Depending on the circumstances and your bearded dragon’s age, you should wash them as needed. Following are some general principles:
- Bathing a baby bearded dragon as much as once daily is recommended compared to bathing an adult.
- At most, adult bearded dragons should have a bath once or twice each week.
- You can increase the frequency of bathing if your bearded dragon is having problems shedding.
- To keep your bearded dragon clean and healthy, you should bathe them if they become muddy or unclean.
- Avoid overdoing it when taking baths because doing so might deplete the skin of its natural oils and cause dryness or irritation.
Always keep an eye on your bearded dragon as it bathes, and change the frequency of the baths according to their specific requirements.
How Should I Bathe My Bearded Dragon?
A crucial component of your bearded dragon’s hygiene regimen is bathing. The procedures for giving your bearded dragon a decent wash are as follows:
1. Get the water ready
Ludicrously warm water that is deep enough for your bearded dragon to soak in but not so deep that it will drown should be placed in a container.
2. Add bubbles (optional)
To add bubbles, simply add some mild, unscented soap. To get rid of any soap residue, make sure to properly rinse your bearded dragon.
3. Watch your bearded dragon
While it is bathing, keep a watch on your bearded dragon to make sure it doesn’t consume any water or get too chilly.
4. Soak Time
Your bearded dragon should be placed gently in the water, where it should soak for 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Dry Them Up
They must be dried after soaking. Take it out of the water and pat it dry with a fresh towel.
After every use, thoroughly wash the container with soap and hot water to stop bacterial development. Generally, you should give your bearded dragon a wash once or twice a week, however this depends on your pet’s demands and habits.
Can Bearded Dragon Take a Shower?
No. I wouldn’t recommend this. A bearded dragon can take a shower, but it’s not advised since it can stress the lizard out.
They may find it difficult to cope with:
- the noise
- water pressure fluctuations
- temperature variations
It’s preferable to continue using the conventional technique of giving them a shallow container bath. Keep water out of their eyes and ears.
Keep a careful eye on your bearded dragon while it’s in the shower and to stop right away if they start to act distressed or uncomfortable.
Overall, even though it is feasible to shower a bearded dragon, it is not advised due to the potential stress it may bring.
Should I Dry My Bearded Dragon After a Bath?
Yes. To avoid any health problems, it is crucial to dry your bearded dragon off after a bath. To remove extra water, gently pat your bearded dragon with a soft cloth.
Keep in mind that their skin is sensitive and prone to tearing if you rub it too vigorously. In order to prevent scorching or burning your pet’s skin, you may also use a blow drier on the lowest setting to dry them off.
In order to keep your bearded dragon from being too chilly after the wash, make sure to keep them in a warm environment. They can control their body temperature with the use of a heated towel or a basking area.
Should I Spray My Bearded Dragon With Water?
As natives of Australia’s dry interior, bearded dragons are not adapted to high humidity levels. As a result, too much moisture may make it difficult for them to breathe.
Spraying water on your bearded dragon is not advised. As an alternative, give them a small dish of water to soak in and make sure their cage has the right amount of humidity.
You may give your bearded dragon a wet hide to aid in the shedding process if it is doing so. By putting a tiny box with a damp paper towel inside the cage, you may make a moist hide. This gives the bearded dragon a comfortable place to hide out when necessary.
Why Do Bearded Dragons Flatten Out in the Bath?
Because they are attempting to increase their surface area to absorb more water, bearded dragons may flatten out in the bath.
- They may better hydrate and control their body temperature by flattening their bodies, which exposes more of their skin to the water.
- Flattening out may also be a sign of comfort and relaxation for bearded dragons, demonstrating that they are taking pleasure in their bath.
You should withdraw your bearded dragon from the water and try again if they seem agitated or uncomfortable while in the bath.
What Soap Is Safe for Bearded Dragons?
When bathing a bearded dragon, it is typically not advised to use soap or any other cleaning solution. Bearded dragons are able to clean themselves, but using soap can strip its skin of its natural oils, causing dryness and other skin issues.
Choose a gentle soap made especially for reptiles if you must use soap for any reason. Avoid using soaps with chemicals or perfumes since your pet might become sick if you do.
To guarantee that no residue is left behind while washing your bearded dragon, rinse it off completely after using any soap or cleaning product.
Additionally, watch carefully that no soap or cleaning solution enters your bearded dragon’s mouth, nose, or eyes since this might result in irritation or other health issues.
If required, the following safe soap choices can be used to clean a bearded dragon:
- Zoo Med Wipe Out 1
- Fluker’s Super Scrub with Organic Cleaner
- ReptiSafe Terrarium Cleaner
Can Bearded Dragons Swim in the Bath?
Due to their inability to swim naturally and the risk of drowning in deep water, bearded dragons must only be introduced to baths under cautious supervision. However, with the right instruction and care, they may learn to paddle or swim. The following four points should be remembered:
- Only gradually expose bearded dragons to water, starting with shallow water that comes up to their legs.
- When your bearded dragon is bathing, never leave them alone. They can drown in as little as a few inches of water.
- Try gently moving your bearded dragon around in the water if they appear at ease there to encourage swimming.
- To keep them breathing in water, always keep their heads above the water.
After swimming for a while, gently remove your bearded dragon from the water and pat them dry.
Why Do Bearded Dragons Puff up in the Bath?
Bearded dragons may swell when bathing for a number of causes, including:
- pain
- tension
- anxiety
One of their protection methods involves puffing out to make themselves look larger and more scary to prospective predators. The puffing up action, however, may be a sign that they are unhappy with the water’s depth or temperature in the bath or that the water is too hot for them.
Some bearded dragons may also enlarge while losing their skin or in times of danger, such when they come into strange creatures, people, or surroundings.
To make sure your bearded dragon feels safe and secure, pay attention to their body language and change the bath’s parameters as necessary.
Conclusion
During my first bath experience with my beardie. I made sure the water in the sink wasn’t excessively hot or cold by filling it with warm water. I then carefully lowered my bearded dragon into the water.
He seemed interested in what I was doing as he regarded me. I grabbed a cup and started soaking his scales by pouring water over his back. He closed his eyes and sighed contentedly, showing that he was enjoying it.
His legs had some loose skin, so I started softly caressing it with my fingers after seeing it. My beardie began to swell as I was doing so, expanding his beard and seeming larger than normal.
Though I was aware that he was only taking pleasure in the attention, I recalled reading that this was an indication of feeling threatened.
He was toweled off after a short while, making care to remove all the water from in between his scales. He was appreciative of the treatment and already appeared cleaner and healthier. I placed him back in his tank, content in the knowledge that I had provided for my cherished pet.
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