Bearded dragons have become increasingly popular as pets over the past couple of decades. Their calm temperaments combined with their unique appearances make them a great option for reptile enthusiasts. However, before bringing one of these exotic pets home it’s important to understand how much do bearded dragon costs associated with properly caring. In this article, we’ll break down the various expenses that come with owning one of these creatures.
Initial Purchase Price
The first cost you’ll encounter when getting a bearded dragon is the initial purchase price. This can range anywhere from $20 to $100 depending on factors like age, morph, and source.
- Baby bearded dragons from pet stores generally range from $40-$60. These are usually a few months old.
- Adult bearded dragons (1-2 years old) will be on the more expensive end, ranging from $80-$100.
- Specialty morphs with unique colorations can fetch prices over $100 easily.
- Adopting from a rescue is cheaper, usually between $20-$50. These are often adult dragons.
So you can expect to pay at least $50 upfront when acquiring a bearded dragon. The age and appearance of the dragon will drive this price up. Doing research to find reputable breeders can help avoid getting ripped off when making your initial purchase.
Housing & Habitat Supplies
Another significant expense for bearded dragons is setting up proper housing and habitat accessories. A basic setup will require:
- A tank or vivarium at least 40 gallons for an adult dragon. These cost $50-$150 depending on size.
- Substrate like reptile carpet or calcium sand, $20-$30.
- Hides for sleeping and security, $10-$20 each.
- Hammocks and climbing accessories, $10-$20.
- A basking log for heat, $20-$30.
- A food and water dish, $10.
- Heating and UVB lighting equipment, $70-$150.
These basic supplies will generally cost between $250-$500 to purchase and properly setup. The size of the tank and type of lighting equipment are the biggest variables. Investing in high quality items that are safe and healthy for your bearded dragon is worth the higher initial costs.
Recurring Costs
The recurring costs of owning a bearded dragon can also add up. You’ll need to purchase food, replace lighting bulbs, and cover occasional veterinarian visits.
- Crickets or worms for food, $5-$10 per week. Pellet food can lower costs.
- Vegetables & fruits, $10-$15 per month.
- Vitamin supplements, $10 every 2-3 months.
- New UVB/heat bulbs every 6-12 months, $20-$60.
- Routine vet checkups, $75-$100 annually.
- Tank cleaning supplies, $5-$10 per month.
These regular expenses can amount to over $100 per month. The food bill is the biggest variable. Buying in bulk cuts costs. Overall, plan to budget at least $500 annually for a healthy bearded dragon.
Total Costs
All said, a bearded dragon will cost:
- $50-$100 initial purchase price.
- $250-$500 for a proper habitat setup.
- $600-$1200 yearly for food, utilities, and veterinary fees.
The total costs can reach $2000 or more in the first year when you include the habitat and supplies. The recurring costs come out to roughly $1000 annually after that. Exotic pets like bearded dragons require a higher level of care and expenses than cats or dogs. Make sure you are financially prepared to properly care for one before bringing it home.
Proper housing, nutrition, and veterinary care are essential to having a healthy, long-living bearded dragon. Although the costs are significant, they bring an incredibly interesting and interactive reptile into your home. Understanding the expenses involved allows you to budget accordingly and be a responsible pet owner. With good care, these creatures can live up to 10 years and become a beloved part of the family.
FAQs About How Much Do Bearded Dragon Cost
How much should I budget for lighting and heating equipment for a bearded dragon?
Budget around $50 to $150 for UVB lighting and heating equipment, including bulbs and fixtures, with occasional replacements.
What are the typical expenses for bearded dragon food and supplements?
Expect to spend $10 to $20 monthly on a varied diet of insects, vegetables, and occasional supplements.
Are there additional costs for veterinary care or health check-ups?
Yes, veterinary care may cost $50 to $100 annually for check-ups and potential treatment of health issues.
Do bearded dragons require specific accessories or decorations, and how much do they cost?
Accessories and decorations vary in cost but can range from $20 to $100 or more, depending on your preferences.
Are there ongoing costs associated with maintaining the habitat and substrate?
Substrate replacement and habitat maintenance can cost $10 to $20 monthly, depending on the chosen substrate.
What is the average annual cost of caring for a bearded dragon as a pet?
The average annual cost of caring for a bearded dragon ranges from $300 to $600 or more, depending on individual needs and preferences.
