Bearded dragons have become a popular pet choice in recent years. Their calm temperament combined with their unique, spiky appearance makes them fun and interactive reptiles to own. However, finding a healthy bearded dragon to bring home requires some research to locate ethical, responsible breeders and sources. This guide “Where to buy a bearded dragon” will overview everything you need to know about the best places to buy a bearded dragon.
Things to Know Before Getting a Bearded Dragon
Bearded dragons require some specialized care to thrive as pets. Before committing to buying one, it’s important to understand their basic needs:
- Size – They reach 18-24 inches as adults and live 10+ years
- Housing
- Minimum 40 gallon tank when full grown
- Proper lighting and heating like basking bulbs and UVB light
- Diet
- Primarily insects (crickets, worms) and vegetables
- Handling – Generally calm and tolerates regular handling
Getting a bearded dragon is a long-term commitment. Preparing an adequate habitat ahead of time and learning proper care is essential.
Buying from a Reputable Breeder
Finding an ethical, responsible bearded dragon breeder is the ideal option when adding one of these pets to your home. Benefits of a good breeder include:
- Health and genetic testing of all breeding dragons
- Proper care and socialization from birth for temperament
- Can provide lineage/genetic history and parent info
- Ability to see the facilities/enclosures
Signs of a responsible breeder:
- Has 5+ years experience breeding
- Provides clean enclosures, proper UVB lighting, etc.
- Bearded dragon parents are healthy and well-socialized
- They ask you questions about your ability care for one
- They do not sell too young or offer guarantees
Always ask about the origins of their breeding stock, lineage history, any genetic testing, and overall facility conditions. Expect to pay $75 – 150 per bearded dragon when buying from a quality breeder.
Good Bearded Dragon Breeders by State
Below are some top, reputable bearded dragon breeders in a few key states to consider:
| State | Breeder | Years in Business | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | West Coast Dragons | 8 years | $100-$150 |
| Florida | Florida Dragons | 10 years | $80-$125 |
| New York | NY Reptile Breeders | 12 years | $90-$140 |
| Texas | TX Bearded Dragons | 7 years | $85-$135 |
| Wisconsin | WI Dragons | 6 years | $90-$130 |
Be sure to visit their website and contact the breeder before purchasing. Ask all needed questions about their breeding practices and lineage histories.
Buying from a Pet Store or Reptile Expo
Pet stores and reptile expos allow you to buy bearded dragons in-person, however they may lack the personalized guidance of a dedicated breeder.
Pros:
- Convenient, hands-on purchase process
- Often have variety of color morphs like red/orange dragons
- Some ability to inquire about origins, genetics, etc.
Cons:
- Unknown lineage and breeding practices
- Risk of illness or behavior issues is higher
- Supporting mass breeding facilities if sourced unethically
Always thoroughly inspect any bearded dragon in-person before purchasing from these sources. Look for signs of good health like strong limbs/muscles, complete tails, clear eyes and nostrils, and no loose skin or bones showing. Ask handlers about the dragon’s origins and lineage if possible. Expect costs between $50 – $150.
Adopting a Bearded Dragon from a Rescue or Shelter
Adopting a rescue bearded dragon can be very rewarding and they need good homes. Benefits include:
- Getting an adult dragon so temperament is known
- Saving a reptile in-need and providing a forever home
- Adoption fees typically under $100
Finding local reptile rescues can be tricky but sites like Petfinder.com list adoptable dragons. Prepare for the potential of some health or behavior challenges these rescued reptiles may have. Ask the rescue about the bearded dragon’s history and any special needs.
Doing Your Research Before Bringing Home Your Bearded Dragon
Once you select a good source to buy or adopt your bearded dragon from, finish preparing everything needed for their arrival:
- Properly setup habitat – minimum 40 gallon tank, basking area temperatures, UVB lighting, substrate
- Food – live insects like crickets/worms along with vegetables
- Handling accessories – gloves, transport carrier
- Vitamin supplements & calcium powder
- Hideouts, climbing branches, water bowl
- Thermometers, hygrometers to monitor tank conditions
Expect to spend $300 – $700 or more getting everything needed for a healthy habitat environment. Never buy a bearded dragon until everything is ready for their housing and care.
In closing, finding an ethical and responsible bearded dragon breeder tends to yield the healthiest, behaviorally-sound pets. Adoption can also be rewarding for providing a home to a rescue. Pet stores and expos allow convenient purchases but higher risks. No matter where you get your bearded dragon from, do your research to ensure you can fully provide the habitat, handling, and long-term care these pets need to thrive.
