The appropriate bearded dragon food can depend on the age of your pet. Younger lizards will likely require a protein-rich diet of mainly live insects—most commonly crickets and dubia roaches, but also including hornworms, grasshoppers and wax worms. The nutrients in these insects can help your bearded dragons mature big and strong.
Adult bearded dragon food can include the insects mentioned above but in smaller quantities. Mature bearded dragons mainly require a diet of leafy greens—including spring greens, kale, watercress and endive. Some vegetables like bell peppers and butternut squash can also make for tasty snacks. Still, it’s recommended to consult a veterinarian or knowledgeable Pet Care Center Associate before feeding your pet something new.
A wholesome mix of live insects and plants can be vital to the health of your bearded dragon. Food rich in protein like insects is the preferred meal of reptiles, but leaving too many insects in your bearded dragon tank will likely cause them to gorge and overeat, which can lead to illness. Additionally, your pet will also require supplements—including Vitamin D, multivitamins and calcium—to help prevent metabolic bone disease and other conditions that can affect bearded dragons. These typically come in powders that can be sprinkled over the contents of their food dish.