Why Does My Bearded Dragon Not Eat Greens?

6 min readNov 21, 2023

Popular reptile companions and bearded dragons are renowned for their distinctive appearance and kind disposition. For them to be healthy, they must eat a balanced diet that includes a range of green vegetables. Don’t panic if you’re thinking, “Why doesn’t my bearded dragon not eat greens?” There may be a few different explanations for their rejection.

Why Does My Bearded Dragon Not Eat Greens — Source

This post will discuss 10 potential reasons and provide workable fixes to make sure your scaly companion is receiving the nourishment they requires.

1. Temperamental Taste Buds:

Sometimes, bearded dragons can be picky eaters, just like how people have favorite foods. If your dragon doesn’t want to eat greens, it might be because they don’t like the taste. Imagine if you were offered a food you didn’t enjoy — you wouldn’t want to eat it either!

To help, try offering different types of greens, like collard greens or mustard greens, to find the ones your dragon likes. It’s like giving them a menu of options to choose from, making mealtime more enjoyable for your scaly friend.

2. Temperature Troubles:

Think of your bearded dragon as a sun-loving friend. They need warmth to feel happy and hungry. If it’s too cold in their home, they might not want to eat. Imagine trying to enjoy a meal when you’re shivering — not fun!

So, make sure their cozy spot, where they bask in the light, is just right, around 95–105°F (35–40°C). It’s like serving them a warm, sunny day on a plate! This way, they’ll feel comfy and ready to munch on their greens, ensuring a happy and healthy bearded dragon.

3. Inadequate Lighting:

Picture your bearded dragon as a little sun lover. They need special sunlight, called UVB light, to stay healthy. If they don’t get enough, they might not feel like eating their greens. It’s like trying to be cheerful on a gloomy day — not easy!

So, set up a bright light for them, giving about 10–12 hours of “sunshine” each day. This helps them stay strong and happy, making their greens a tasty part of the menu. Just like you feel better in the sun, your dragon will be all smiles with the right light, ready to enjoy their leafy greens!

4. Digestive Distress:

Imagine if your bearded dragon’s tummy feels a bit upset. It can happen if they eat things like sand or get thirsty. Like when you eat something funny, it might not feel good.

So, keep their home tidy — no sand snacks! Also, give them a shallow water dish to sip from. If they still seem off, it’s like visiting the doctor for us — take them to a reptile vet. It’s all about keeping their tummies happy and healthy so they can enjoy their greens without any tummy troubles. A happy belly means a happy dragon!

5. Stress and Anxiety:

Just like people, bearded dragons can feel stressed out. Imagine if they’re scared of loud noises or too much activity around them — it’s like feeling worried. When they’re stressed, they might not want to eat their greens.

So, create a calm home for them, like a cozy, quiet room for you. Add hiding spots, so they feel safe. It’s like having a little hideaway to relax. Watch out for signs of stress, like acting differently. If they’re happy and relaxed, they’ll be more likely to munch on those yummy greens and enjoy their dragon life without any worries.

6. Incorrect Feeding Method:

Imagine if someone handed you a whole watermelon and said, “Eat!” Tricky, right? Bearded dragons can feel the same about big chunks of green. If their veggies are too big, they might not know how to eat them. So, chop those greens into tiny pieces. It’s like turning that huge watermelon into bite-sized bits.

This way, your dragon can gobble them up easily. It’s all about making mealtime a breeze, like having your favorite snacks in the perfect size. When the greens are just right, your dragon can happily munch away, making dinnertime a delight!

7. Feeding Schedule Issues:

Imagine if your friend invites you for a surprise meal every day, but you never know when it’s happening. It’d be confusing, right? Bearded dragons feel the same way about food. If their meals are a surprise, they might not be hungry.

So, create a food routine, like having breakfast at the same time every day. Your dragon will know when it’s munching time and be ready to eat those yummy greens. It’s like having a delicious schedule — predictable and enjoyable. A regular routine makes mealtime exciting, ensuring your dragon doesn’t miss out on their leafy delights!

8. Habitual Insect Dependence:

Imagine if you love pizza, but suddenly you’re told to eat salads every day. It’s a big change, right? Bearded dragons can feel the same about their food. If they’re used to insects like we love our pizza, asking them to eat greens might be a surprise.

So, slowly give them fewer insects and more greens, like having more salad and less pizza. It’s about getting them used to a new yummy menu. Gradual changes help them enjoy both worlds, making sure they get the veggies they need while still savoring their insect treats — a perfect mix for a happy, healthy dragon!

9. Mouth or Dental Problems:

Imagine if your bearded dragon had a toothache — it would make eating tricky, right? Well, dragons can have mouth problems too. If their mouths hurt, they might avoid eating their greens. Check their mouths for anything unusual, like red spots or swelling.

If you see something, it’s like spotting a problem with your teeth and visiting the dentist. A reptile vet can help your dragon feel better. Making sure their mouths are comfy means they can happily munch on those tasty greens without any discomfort. Happy mouths make for happy dragons at mealtime!

10. Age-Related Changes:

Think of your bearded dragon like a growing kid. When they’re little, they might love certain foods more. Dragons are similar — when they’re young, they might prefer insects over greens. But as they get older, their tastes can change, just like how kids start liking different foods.

So, if your dragon is a bit older, they might be getting ready to enjoy more greens. It’s like them growing up and trying new things. Be patient, offer a mix of foods, and let them decide what they like. It’s all part of their dragon journey from little eaters to big, leafy green lovers!

Conclusion:

Understanding why your bearded dragon is not eating greens requires patience, observation, and a willingness to address potential issues. By considering factors such as taste preferences, environmental conditions, and health concerns, you can create an optimal environment for your dragon to thrive.

Remember, a well-balanced diet is essential for their overall well-being, so continue to monitor and adapt their diet as needed. If concerns persist, consult with a reptile veterinarian to ensure your scaly friend receives the best care possible.

Note: The information presented in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice and guidance from a qualified veterinarian or herpetologist. Bearded Dragon care and husbandry can vary based on species and individual needs, so it’s essential to consult with an expert for personalized recommendations.