WHAT DOES BEARDED DRAGON EAT? 31 FOODS YOUR DRAGON CAN (& CAN’T) EAT

Choosing to own a bearded dragon as a pet comes with several responsibilities, one of which is providing a proper diet. Feeding your dragon a healthy and balanced diet is essential for their overall well-being. However, figuring out what foods a bearded dragon can and cannot eat can be a bit tricky. In this article, we will break down some of the most common foods and determine whether they are safe for your dragon to consume.

Before we delve into the specific foods, it is important to mention that a bearded dragon’s diet should consist of a mixture of green vegetables and insects. These two food groups will provide the necessary nutrients and variety to keep your dragon healthy and happy.

Now, let’s take a closer look at some commonly asked questions about bearded dragon’s diet:

1. Can Bearded Dragons Eat Grapes? – YES

Grapes can be a part of your dragon’s diet. However, it is essential to clean them thoroughly before cutting them into bite-sized pieces and adding them to your dragon’s greens. Both the leaves and grapes of the grape plant are safe for your dragon to consume.

2. Can Bearded Dragons Eat Bananas? – Occasionally

Bananas can be fed to your dragon occasionally, but they should not be a regular part of their diet. Too many bananas can make your dragon sick. You can offer bite-sized pieces of banana as a treat when you haven’t stocked up on other dragon food options.

3. Can Bearded Dragons Eat Apples? – YES

Apples are safe and can be a regular part of a bearded dragon’s diet. However, it is important to peel the apple before cutting it into small bite-sized pieces. This will make it easier for your dragon to eat and digest.

4. Can Bearded Dragons Eat Strawberries? – Occasionally

Bearded dragons can enjoy strawberries occasionally. It is best to feed them strawberries once a month or once every two months. Remove the top of the strawberry and cut it into small bite-sized pieces for your dragon to enjoy.

5. Can Bearded Dragons Eat Carrots? – YES

Bearded dragons love carrots, but remember that carrots are rich in Vitamin A. While they are safe to consume, offering them in moderation is important to avoid excessive Vitamin A intake.

6. Can Bearded Dragons Eat Spinach? – NO

Contrary to popular belief, bearded dragons should not be fed spinach. Spinach contains high levels of oxalates, which can bind to calcium in the body and inhibit calcium absorption. This can lead to metabolic bone disease in bearded dragons. It is best to avoid feeding spinach altogether.

7. Can Bearded Dragons Eat Avocado? – NO

Avocado is toxic to bearded dragons and should be avoided at all costs. Avocado contains a substance called persin, which is harmful to reptiles. Consumption of avocado can cause severe health issues and even death in bearded dragons.

8. Can Bearded Dragons Eat Mealworms? – YES

Mealworms are a popular staple insect in a bearded dragon’s diet. They are rich in protein and can be offered regularly. However, it is important to gut-load the mealworms before feeding them to your dragon. This means feeding the mealworms nutritional foods or supplements to enhance their nutritional content.

9. Can Bearded Dragons Eat Crickets? – YES

Crickets are another staple insect in a bearded dragon’s diet. They are a good source of protein and can be fed regularly. Like mealworms, it is important to gut-load the crickets to ensure they provide optimal nutrition for your dragon.

10. Can Bearded Dragons Eat Tomatoes? – NO

Tomatoes should be avoided in a bearded dragon’s diet. They contain high levels of acidity, which can cause digestive issues and negatively impact their health. It is best to steer clear of feeding tomatoes to your dragon.

In addition to the foods mentioned above, there are several other safe options for bearded dragons, such as collard greens, dandelion greens, mustard greens, squash, blueberries, raspberries, and green beans. These foods provide a good variety of nutrients to keep your dragon healthy.

Remember, variety is key when it comes to your dragon’s diet. Providing a mixture of different vegetables and insects will ensure that they receive all the essential nutrients they need for proper growth and development. It is also important to keep in mind that some foods should only be offered occasionally, while others can be a regular part of their diet.

In conclusion, knowing what foods your bearded dragon can and cannot eat is crucial for their health and well-being. By offering a balanced and varied diet, you can ensure that your dragon thrives in a comfortable and natural habitat. Always consult a veterinarian or reptile specialist if you have specific questions or concerns about feeding your bearded dragon.