Food Pellets as Primary Diet for Baby?

[rissa94]

I was wondering if anyone has fed their baby beardie a mostly pellet diet, and how well it worked. I'm on a budget right now so I'm trying to find the best option for my little guy. Right now I have the Rep-Cal brand, juvenile bearded dragon growth formula. Any other tips are also appreciated

 

[Kriechtier]

Variety is key. These pellets may be designed to have all the nutrients, but think about how quickly a person is bored with the same food over and over again. Bearded Dragons are very curious creatures and like/need variety. Although I do think these pellets are ok, please make sure to feed a good variety of vegetables as staple with some fruits with these pellets. Mixed greens are not expensive and if you find a place where you can buy them loose (Whole Foods or so) you will find to be able to buy small amounts for little money. In addition for a baby/juvenile make sure there is real sufficient protein intake. If you do not like life crickets or worms try canned or frozen, you can get them from Amazon fairly cheaply. Very important to provide the correct heat and lighting (including a good source of UVB) also, as without a 100F hotspot your dragon will not be able to thermo-regulate and digest properly.
There are very good tips and pointers for affordable food options on this site.
Best of luck to you and your dragon!

 

[Taterbug]

The problem I have with pellets is a few things. First is that many have fillers like corn and soy, and may be not so good for dragons. Second, there is no established dietary requirments for dragons (or crickets) so products labeled as "complete diet" doesn't have the same meaning as a "complete diet" for a dog or cat for which there are established content standards. Lastly, in tortoises dry pellet diets (even rehydrated ones) have been linked to dehydration, which is already a concern without using foods that may contribute. A moist or gel premade food might be a better option than the dry pellets. I've recently picked up the repashy gel mixes for some variety/treats but so far my guy has only spit it out.