i just bought a beardie and the last week has has gotten really agressive to the point of i cant even pick him up he is bitting me and jumping at my hand i want to stop this before he gets to big can someone please help me with my problem i want to be able to enjoy my dragon.
2006-08-16 13:05:19 · 6 answers · asked by ADAM L 1 in Pets ➔ Reptiles
He might just be stressed out from the change of scenery. Did you give him a chance to settle in before trying to handle him? If not, give him a week or so to himself, then try again. The main thing to remember is that when you take him out, KEEP him out for a while, even if he starts acting up. Even reptiles can learn to associate aggression with being put back... They think they won. He needs to learn while he's still small that A. Freaking out and acting aggressive doesn't mean an instant trip back home and B. That you are not a threat. Calmly and slowly handle him for several minutes each day, possibly try hand feeding him some mealworms, and eventually he'll warm up to you.
to above answer: If the first reptile you had was a caiman, no wonder you've sworn off reptiles!! VERY poor choice for a first reptile. Lizards like bearded dragons, as well as most snakes, will calm down and tolerate a fair amount of handling. And while they can't exactly "bond" with their owners, they are fun and rewarding pets and can have a LOT of personality.
2006-08-16 13:24:36 · answer #1 · answered by snake_girl85 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As I'm sure you know, bearded dragons are almost never violent. This could be a sign that he is uncomfortable in his new environment. Make sure you have the proper sand for him to walk in and that you are providing him with the right food and water.
The worst case scenario is that he is very sick and he is lashing out because he is in terrible pain. If you are providing the proper food and water for him then you should take him to a reptile vet and have him checked out.
You might also want to contact the store where you bought him. If he is sick then it's likely the other bearded dragons he was in a tank with have the same sickness.
2006-08-16 13:25:10 · answer #2 · answered by taskr36 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well cold blooded creatures aren't cuddly and sweet and they will bite the hand that feeds them. I know you picked a pet you thought was neat but if you want a pet that will come to you and appreciate what you do for them get a cat (from a fanciercause they breed for personality) or a dog. I had a camin once and after a viscious bite I was thruogh with reptiles. A friend of mine had snakes and he too got rid of them after being bitten 3X Cause they just wasn't worth it
2006-08-16 13:17:31 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've raised several generations of bearded dragons & have never had one bite me.
Like Snake Girl said, you should let any new pet get acclimated before handling.
When you pick him up, do so with authority (don't appear scared) yet don't do anything to scare him.
2006-08-16 14:47:44 · answer #4 · answered by carl l 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take him back to the shop quick before he becomes a major hassle
2006-08-16 13:11:23 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
hold him by the legs pinned to his bod so he cant bite you or hurt u he will calm down after awhile
2006-08-16 16:46:39 · answer #6 · answered by ronnie6266 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋