Proper husbandry?

[boosh96]

What are your thoughts on proper bearded dragon husbandry? I'm aware of the husbandry most folks agree on but do you think beardies are best kept like monitors with respect to heat, burrowing opportunities, handling, etc.?

[Tsubaki]

A thought not everyone agrees on me which i feel is good for dragons, being able to burrow and climb. Most bearded dragons i've seen loved to climb and dig! I am not someone who frequently handles their reptiles, so not much thoughts on that.

[PaleStag90]

I like to steer clear of the popular sand substrate for them. Tried it once and while he loved it, the calcium sand at one point got in his eye and while it healed that eye was always a little sunken and prone to occasional weeping. I've always had very happy little beardies doing just fine on reptile carpet, but I've heard some recomend like a clay box hide of sorts to give them the chance to burrow if they like.

[riddick07]

I did have a digging area for my bearded dragon at one point that was a mix of dirt and sand. I also have climbing branches in them and you will be surprised how far they can jump when given the opportunity. I'll probably give them a digging box again when I get their cages finally made up. Right now the one is on tile and the other paper towels.