Holding my 1 year old beardie

[xxturtlepower]

I got my bearded dragon a few weeks ago from a 12 year old boy who didn’t have time for it anymore. He’s seems really scared of me and always tries to bite me when I get close to him. I don’t think he’s been handled before. Is there any tips on getting him to not be as scared and to help me hold him?

 

[kingofnobbys]

You need to earn beardie's trust , and be patient , he will come around in his own time.

 

[CooperDragon]

I agree. Just be patient and gentile around him while he adjusts to his new home. It may take some time with an older dragon. If you would like, please post photos and details about his enclosure and lighting. We'll be glad to walk through and make sure everything is just right for your new buddy. Proper space, heat gradient, and good lighting will make a big difference in his mood as well as overall health.

 

[xxturtlepower]

Thank you for the help. I don't know how to post photos yet but, i can tell you that its a 40 gallon terrarium. I did a lot of research on what he needs and I think I've got everything. Thank you though!

 

[CooperDragon]

You can upload photos here https://www.beardeddragon.org/useruploads/ and post them to your thread using the XIMG button when you reply.

 

[SHBailey]

Yes, patient and gentle like others have said. Also make sure that you approach him from the front or the side, not from above or behind (as a predator would). And it wouldn't hurt to shamelessly bribe him with treats.

You should also know that if he succeeds in biting you, he probably won't do much damage. I found this out recently when I fed my beardie some Repashy Grub Pie, which he really REALLY likes, and in his wild enthusiasm, along with being a klutz and often missing his target, he managed to miss the grub pie and chomp on my finger. Mildly uncomfortable and didn't even break the skin, just some teeth marks that faded away in a few minutes. So you don't have to be too nervous about him biting you, and that might also help a little -- if you can stay calm it may help him do the same.