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What Factors Affect the Price of a Bearded Dragon?

Rhonda Rivera
Rhonda Rivera

Bearded dragons can be relatively expensive, but the upfront cost of buying one is insignificant in comparison to its long-term housing, food, and medical costs. The price of a bearded dragon includes a large enclosure to keep the animal secure, plus various heating options to ensure its comfort. In addition, bearded dragons need food such as crickets, meal worms, and mice. Their medical costs typically include at least one exam per year, plus the cost of unexpected injuries or illnesses.

The price of a bearded dragon depends on where the animal is purchased. Buying directly from a breeder is usually cheaper than buying from a large chain pet store. A lot of pet stores buy from breeders, then mark up the price of the bearded dragon to make a profit. Some places also have pet stores that only sell reptiles, which might be more reputable and cheaper than a pet store that sells puppies, reptiles, and rodents.

Bearded dragon enclosures are sometimes the most expensive purchase. The size of the enclosure greatly affects its price. Bearded dragons like to move around a lot, so in general, larger aquariums are best.

Buying food, such as crickets, is part of the cost of a bearded dragon.
Buying food, such as crickets, is part of the cost of a bearded dragon.

This type of animal needs some sort of lighting. Without light, bearded dragons become prone to certain diseases and lose their appetite. The fixtures and bulbs can be pricey and do not last forever. In addition, leaving a light on most of the day contributes to a home’s power bill.

The price of a bearded dragon is increased by the necessity of controlling their temperature. Bearded dragons require varying temperatures to remain healthy, depending on the time of day and age of the lizard. Ceramic heat emitters, heating pads, and other devices can be used to control a bearded dragon’s temperature. Prices vary, but the devices that offer the most reliability and control usually cost more.

A temperature control system for the bearded dragon may be quite a significant expense.
A temperature control system for the bearded dragon may be quite a significant expense.

Bearded dragons should be looked over every 12 months by a veterinarian skilled in working with exotic pets. With a clean bill of health, bearded dragon owners are usually only charged for the visit. If something is wrong with the pet, the cost of medicine or surgery can be significant.

Food requirements increase the overall price of a bearded dragon. People used to keeping pets such as fish or birds are sometimes unprepared for the complication and cost associated with lizards. Meal worms and crickets are typical bearded dragon food, along with other small insects, but baby mice can be used as well. The size and difficulty of the food choices are usually adjusted based on the age of the bearded dragon being fed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What determines the cost of a bearded dragon?

The cost of a bearded dragon is influenced by several factors including age, color morph, lineage, and rarity. Younger dragons are typically less expensive than adults due to their longer remaining lifespan. Unique color morphs, such as the zero or witblits, can command higher prices due to their rarity and breeding efforts required to produce them.

Does the breeder's reputation affect the price of a bearded dragon?

Yes, the reputation of the breeder can significantly affect the price. Established breeders with a history of producing healthy, well-tempered dragons often charge more. They invest in quality husbandry and genetics, which can lead to higher prices for their bearded dragons, reflecting the quality and care invested in their breeding programs.

How does the bearded dragon's health and genetics influence its price?

Health and genetics are critical factors in pricing. A bearded dragon with a robust genetic lineage, free from congenital health issues, is more valuable. Breeders may charge more for dragons that have been genetically tested or come from a lineage with a history of good health, as they are likely to have fewer health problems and better overall vitality.

Are there additional costs to consider when purchasing a bearded dragon?

When purchasing a bearded dragon, additional costs include the habitat setup, ongoing food expenses, and potential veterinary care. A proper enclosure with heating, lighting, and substrate can be a significant initial investment. Moreover, a nutritious diet of insects and vegetables, along with regular health check-ups, will contribute to the overall cost of ownership.

Do rare color morphs of bearded dragons cost more?

Rare color morphs, such as the translucent or leatherback morphs, often cost more due to the increased difficulty in breeding these variations. The rarity and demand for these unique appearances drive up the price, as breeders invest time and resources into developing and maintaining these special traits within the bearded dragon population.

Can the time of year affect the price of a bearded dragon?

The time of year can influence the price of a bearded dragon. During breeding season, there may be a higher availability of hatchlings, which could slightly lower the cost. Conversely, off-season periods might see a decrease in supply, potentially increasing prices. Seasonal demand around holidays can also affect pricing, as more people may be looking to purchase pets as gifts.

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    • Buying food, such as crickets, is part of the cost of a bearded dragon.
      By: viter
      Buying food, such as crickets, is part of the cost of a bearded dragon.
    • A temperature control system for the bearded dragon may be quite a significant expense.
      By: JcJg Photography
      A temperature control system for the bearded dragon may be quite a significant expense.