What to look for in a healthy dragon

[dustponds10]

Recently we got a bearded dragon. The guy we got him from said that he would feed him 50 crickets once a week. I have read that they need the food daily so we are giving him 6-10 crickets a day and fruits and veggies. I am curious to know what I need to look for to know he is healthy and has the proper diet. Are there any fat pockets or other characteristics I should be looking for?

 

[diamc]

How old or what length is your beardie? That will help us in being able to answer about the feeding routine.

 

[dustponds10]

Sorry he is three years old and large. I'll bet he is around 18-20 inches

 

[diamc]

Thanks for giving us his age, that is very helpful. I do feel it's best to feed adults daily or every other day rather than so many feeders just one day. Helps with their pooping schedule too. A total of 50 crickets a wk spaced out how ever you (or he) prefers is fine for an adult. Fresh veggies should be given daily.

When looking at a healthy bearide, the eyes will be bright & even sparkle. There should also be fat pads on top of their heads as well as the base of their tails. Their skin shouldn't be very wrinkled either. If it is or if the urates aren't white but instead yellowish, hard like chalk or rubbery, it shows they need more frequent baths & should also be offered oral fluids. If you want to post some pictures, we can take a look at him for you. :wink:

 

[dustponds10]

I took pictures but is there a way I can upload them using a smart phone? That's all I have right now to upload with

 

[diamc]

I'm not sure but maybe this would help. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=10&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CFwQFjAJ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.keepandshare.com%2Fhtm%2Fhelp3%2Ftop_useful_tips%2Fmobile-use-email-photo-to-upload-photos.php&ei=iRwBVOnxO8nIggTN6IKwAQ&usg=AFQjCNGHKH6S100yYFbM48KVoqcuUYevcw&bvm=bv.74115972,d.eXY