Feeding schedule
By life stage
A dragon's feeding frequency, portion size, and supplement timing all change as they age. Overfeeding adults and underfeeding juveniles are the two most common mistakes.
| Life stage | Frequency | Amount | Feeder sizing | Calcium | Multivitamin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hatchling 0 – 2 months | 2–3x daily (insects) + fresh veg available all day | As many appropriately sized insects as eaten in 10–15 min, per sitting | Insects no wider than the space between the eyes; finely chopped veg offered from day one | Every feeding | Twice weekly |
Juvenile 2 – 5 months | 2x daily (insects) + fresh veg daily | ~80% insects / 20% veg by volume, shifting toward more veg as months progress | Insects no wider than the space between the eyes | Every feeding | Twice weekly |
Sub-adult 5 – 12 months | 1x daily (insects) + fresh veg daily | Roughly 50/50 insects to veg, transitioning toward veg-heavy | Medium feeders, sized up gradually | Every feeding | Weekly |
Adult 12+ months | Veg daily; insects 3–5x per week | ~80–90% veg / 10–20% insects by volume — the reverse of a hatchling's ratio | Adult-sized feeders, never wider than the head | Every other feeding | Weekly |
Tail health check: An adult dragon whose tail is noticeably fatter than their neck is being overfed. The tail stores fat reserves — a very fat tail signals excess. A lean but not sunken tail base is the target. Juveniles should have a plump tail relative to their body; a thin tail is a warning sign.
The 15-minute rule: Offer food and observe. Whatever hasn't been eaten in 15 minutes should be removed. This applies especially to crickets, which will bite your dragon if left loose overnight.
Water: Fresh water must be available at all times in a shallow dish. Shallow enough that your dragon cannot drown — no deeper than their belly. Change it whenever it is soiled, which may be daily.
Bathing: Unlike many reptiles, bearded dragons generally benefit from a regular warm shallow soak — roughly once or twice a week — for hydration, digestion support, and easier shedding. Never use soap, keep the water no deeper than belly height, and never leave a dragon unattended in water. For more on shedding-specific soaks, see the shedding page →