Similar to bath time, whether a bearded dragon enjoys swimming varies greatly from individual to individual. Some bearded dragons absolutely love the water and relish the chance to swim, while others prefer to stay dry.
If your dragon already enjoys getting a bath, he or she might particularly love the opportunity to swim in deeper water. Supervised, safe swim time can even be a great way for dragons to bond with you.
Understanding Your Bearded Dragon's Preference
Just like people, bearded dragons have unique personalities and preferences. It's crucial for owners to observe their pet's behavior to determine if swimming is an enjoyable activity for them. Forcing a dragon into water can cause stress and a negative association with swimming.
Benefits of Supervised Swim Time
For those bearded dragons who do enjoy it, supervised swimming can offer several advantages:
- Hydration: While not a primary source, they can absorb some water through their cloaca and skin.
- Exercise: Swimming provides a low-impact form of exercise, which can be beneficial for overall health and muscle tone.
- Mental Stimulation: Exploring a new environment like a pool of water can offer valuable enrichment.
- Aids in Shedding: The moisture can help loosen old skin, making the shedding process easier.
- Bonding: Sharing a calm, positive experience like swim time can strengthen the bond between you and your dragon.
How to Introduce Your Bearded Dragon to Water Safely
If you're unsure whether your bearded dragon will enjoy swimming, introduce them gradually and always prioritize their safety.
- Choose the Right Location: A clean bathtub or a large plastic tub is suitable.
- Water Temperature: Ensure the water is comfortably warm, around 85-100°F (29-38°C). Use a thermometer to check.
- Shallow Depth: Start with very shallow water, no deeper than your dragon's shoulders when standing. As they get comfortable, you can gradually increase the depth, but never exceed a point where they can easily stand or rest their feet on the bottom.
- Gentle Introduction: Gently place your dragon into the water, allowing them to acclimate at their own pace. Do not drop them in.
- Constant Supervision: Never leave your bearded dragon unattended in water, even for a moment.
- Provide a "Shore": Ensure there's an easy way for your dragon to get out of the water if they wish, or a shallow end where they can rest.
Signs Your Dragon Enjoys or Dislikes Swimming
Paying close attention to your bearded dragon's body language is key.
| Signs of Enjoyment | Signs of Dislike/Stress |
|---|---|
| Relaxed posture, calmly floating | Struggling or frantic paddling |
| Gentle paddling or exploring | Trying to escape the water |
| Curious head movements | Gasping or gaping (could indicate stress) |
| Calm breathing | Darkening of the beard |
| Actively moving around | Lethargy or trying to sink |
| May show interest in staying in longer | Actively tries to climb out or away from you |
If your bearded dragon shows any signs of distress, remove them from the water immediately.
Important Safety Considerations
Beyond the initial introduction, continued vigilance is necessary:
- Clean Water Only: Use fresh, clean water that is free of soaps, chemicals, or cleaning agents.
- Avoid Draughts: After swimming, thoroughly dry your dragon with a soft towel and ensure they are placed back into their warm enclosure to prevent chilling.
- Supervision is Non-Negotiable: Even good swimmers can encounter difficulties.
- Never Force It: If your dragon consistently shows disinterest or stress, swimming is not for them, and that's perfectly fine.
For more detailed information on bearded dragon care, you can consult reputable sources like PetMD or The Spruce Pets.
