Do Bearded Dragons Get Lonely? | Understanding Their Social Needs 2024

Bearded dragons are humble, quiet, and very independent pets. You will only have to ensure that you take care of their diet and habitat, and they become the easiest pets to maintain! But do bearded dragons get lonely? After all, living independently can make all of us feel lonely, so are dragon pets feeling the same way?

To know your pet better, understand their nature, likes, and dislikes. This way you become more understanding of their behavior, and as you make changes to their daily routines, they will be able to thrive and feel more at home. Explore What Temperature Does A Bearded Dragon Need too.

Bearded Dragons Are Independent

Bearded dragons do not feel lonely because they are reptilians programmed to survive solo. Some animals like dogs like to have companions, similarly, birds fly in flocks, but bearded dragons live on their own. If they have an acceptable companion, but in case they don’t, it is not something that will make them feel depressed or unloved.

Whether in the wild or at home in captivity, these dragons are happy on their own as long as their requirements are fulfilled. The basic requirements for these pets include a warm and clean tank with glass or plastic walls that allow them a view of the whole place. A basking rock on which they can rest and absorb UVB light from the lamp is an essential part of their setup.

Moreover, a nutritious diet and a stable living environment without too much noise, light, and movement are excellent ways to keep these bearded dragons happy. Also, learn How To Trim Bearded Dragon Nails.

Bearded Dragons In Company

If you choose to get two bearded dragons together, or if you want to get one more to accompany your present pet, the bearded dragons will not be hostile toward their new partner! These reptilians are accommodating and will accept a new bearded dragon in their vicinity. However, a big part of this acceptance has to come from the owner.

At first, the bearded dragon may feel stressed or may try to get territorial. However, if you pamper them and pat them more than you used to, they might be able to shake off feelings of insecurity. The more attention they get from you, the more they will become at ease. When your bearded dragon shows signs of insecurity, the behavior will make it clear in the following ways:

Stress Marks

The bearded dragons may develop stress on their skin if they become insecure and stressed over losing their place in the home. Moreover, these dragons may bob their heads or flare their beards as signs of dominance. These signs are short-term territorial behavior but they do not harm their companion based on any dominant streak.

Marking Territory

Bearded dragons do not pee around their tan to mark their territory like dogs, but they will ensure that they require their space and as long as the new companion is not intruding on it, all will be fine.

Owners will have to get a separate tank or a bigger one to accommodate the other dragon as these creatures require their own space and dislike interference in their habitat.

Bearded Dragons And Co-existence

It is best to say that bearded dragons are tolerant towards other dragons but do not thrive in their company. Your pet dragon may become aloof and may even begin to eat less if they see that another pet is around to share your attention.

If you are thinking that this creature will behave like humans or other mammals, it will not! Reptilians like bearded dragons are solitary creatures and even in the wild, they exist solo. While they might not be violent towards another dragon, they will not be happy to share the attention of their owner.

Signs Of Loneliness In Bearded Dragons

Adult bearded dragons may show signs of loneliness when they are ready to mate. The hormonal changes in these animals make them turn black, or flare their beard but this is a temporary companionship desire. Once the mating phase ends, they return to being solitary pets.

There are some actions that owners might think to be signs of loneliness but in reality, they are satisfied! Head bobbing and enjoying a good diet, or remaining still and calm in their tank are some misunderstood behaviors.

People think their pet dragon is getting bored but in reality, it is enjoying its time! If the bearded dragon comes close to you, or if it closes its eyes when you are near, and even if the dragon voluntarily wanders the room means that it is at ease and enjoying its time.

Bearded dragons might enjoy the alone time but they require an occasional patting session, or you can even place them near you on the seat so they feel important. While reptilians do not demand attention they may become more and more aloof if they do not get their owner’s attention! Moreover, you can find out the Best Substrate For Bearded Dragons.

Conclusion

Bearded dragons do not feel lonely as they are designed to survive solo in the wilderness. However, if owners feel that they need a family, these creatures do not react to a new addition.

Always ensure that you do not violate the space of your pet by introducing another dragon in the same space. You will have to set up a new tank or keep a bigger tank setup for bearded dragons where both dragons can enjoy their individual space.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my dragon happy with the new pet?

Owners cannot make their pets react to a new partner the way they want their pets to react! Bearded dragons might like a partner during mating season, but other than that, they will only tolerate a partner who is not violating their space. If you get another bearded dragon ensure that both of them feel loved, attended to, and have their own space.

How can I tell if my bearded dragon is not lonely?

Bearded dragons do not feel lonely by nature, so you do not have to worry about them being alone. Even when they look as if they are bored, they are enjoying their time and do not need a companion.