Bearded dragons are popular reptile pets but suffer widespread welfare problems from inadequate UV lighting and incorrect diets. Understanding their needs is essential for welfare.
Bearded dragon welfare problems are predominantly caused by two inadequacies: insufficient UVB lighting and incorrect diet. Metabolic bone disease, caused by the inability to metabolise calcium without UVB, causes progressive softening of bones, pathological fractures, and a slow, painful decline. Many owners use UVB bulbs of insufficient strength or fail to replace them when the UV output fades before the visible light does. Dubia roaches, kale, and appropriate supplementation provided under high-quality UVB create the welfare conditions these Australian desert lizards need.