Tips from Clermont Animal Hospital in Clermont County, OH
Bearded dragons are among the most popular reptile pets, and for good reason. They’re interactive, expressive, and relatively easy to care for once their environment is dialed in. But that’s the key: a proper habitat is not optional. At Clermont Animal Hospital, we regularly help pet parents across Clermont County, OH create healthy, enriching enclosures that mirror a bearded dragon’s natural environment.
A subpar setup can lead to stress, illness, and behavior issues. So if you’re wondering where to begin, this guide breaks down everything you need to know for your scaly buddy to thrive.
Let’s start with the foundation: the tank. Bearded dragons need horizontal space more than height. A baby dragon can start out in a 20-gallon tank, but he’ll quickly outgrow it. By adulthood, your bearded dragon will need at least a 40-gallon breeder tank. Of course, bigger is better. If you’ve got the room, we recommend a 75 to 120-gallon tank to give your beardie room to roam, climb, and stretch out comfortably.
Substrate—the flooring in your tank—needs to be safe, easy to clean, and not too dusty. Loose substrates like sand or crushed walnut are often marketed for reptiles, but they pose a risk of impaction, a serious, sometimes fatal intestinal blockage.
Our Clermont County vets recommend:
Skip the sand. It’s not worth the risk!
Bearded dragons are cold-blooded and rely on external temperatures to regulate their body systems. Your enclosure must have a basking area and a cooler side, allowing your pet to thermoregulate naturally.
Target temperatures:
Wondering how to keep a bearded dragon warm at night without disrupting their sleep? Use a ceramic heat emitter that gives off heat without visible light. Always use a thermostat to control the temperature and prevent overheating.
Proper lighting is one of the most critical parts of habitat setup. Without UVB exposure, your bearded dragon can’t synthesize vitamin D3, which is necessary to absorb calcium and prevent metabolic bone disease.
You’ll need:
Replace UVB bulbs every 6 months, even if they still emit light. They lose effectiveness over time. Our veterinarians in Clermont County can recommend safe, high-quality bulbs for your specific setup.
Your beardie doesn’t need a spa, but he does need environmental enrichment that supports his natural behaviors. That means:
Rearrange décor occasionally to keep things interesting and reduce boredom.
Set aside an open area for feeding, and keep it free of substrate to avoid accidental ingestion. Feed your bearded dragon a varied diet of:
The percentages of bugs to produce will change over time. Clean up uneaten food daily, and sanitize bowls at least once a week. Our Clermont, OH vet clinic recommends a calcium and D3 supplement 4–5 times a week for growing dragons, and 2–3 times a week for adults. Be sure to ask your vet for specific advice.
Bearded dragons need a dry environment, ideally between 30–40% humidity. Too much moisture can lead to respiratory infections.
Tips for staying dry:
In the humid summers of Clermont County, you might need a dehumidifier or additional ventilation to maintain optimal levels.
A digital thermometer and hygrometer are non-negotiable tools. Monitor basking temps, cool zone temps, and humidity daily. We also recommend using a temperature gun to get accurate surface readings.
At least once a day:
Every 4–6 weeks:
Sometimes, your beardie might need to visit the vet or travel. Have a temporary travel container ready:
Our veterinary clinic in Clermont County can provide a health certificate or travel tips if you’re planning to leave town.
At Clermont Animal Hospital, we love seeing bearded dragons thrive in happy, healthy environments. Our experienced vets in Clermont County, OH can walk you through enclosure setup, recommend the best lighting and heat options, and offer ongoing wellness care for your scaly bestie.
Whether you’re a new beardie parent or refining your setup for an older dragon, stop by our vet clinic or give us a call. We’re here to help your reptile feel right at home.
This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult with your veterinarian for accurate medical advice, habitat recommendations, and health care for your pet.
A full-spectrum UVB tube light (not a coil bulb) paired with a basking heat lamp. Both should be on for 10–12 hours a day, set to a timed cycle. Ask your vet for advice.
Spot clean daily, and deep clean every 4–6 weeks. Sanitize water and food bowls at regularly to prevent bacteria growth.
No. Loose substrates like sand can cause impaction if ingested. Use reptile carpet, tile, or paper-based substrates instead.
