Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptile pets in the world—and for good reason! They’re friendly, easy to handle, and fun to watch. But if you’re thinking of getting one, or already have a baby beardie, you might be asking:
How big does a bearded dragon grow?
Here’s a simple guide to their size, growth stages, and what affects how big they get.
🐉 Average Size of an Adult Bearded Dragon
- Length (head to tail):
📏 45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 inches) - Weight:
⚖️ 300 to 600 grams (0.6 to 1.3 pounds)
💡 Males are often slightly larger and bulkier than females.
📈 Growth by Age
| Age | Average Length |
|---|---|
| Hatchling (0–2 months) | 8–15 cm (3–6 in) |
| Juvenile (2–6 months) | 20–40 cm (8–16 in) |
| Sub-adult (6–12 months) | 40–50 cm (16–20 in) |
| Adult (12+ months) | 45–60 cm (18–24 in) |
Most bearded dragons reach full size by 12 to 18 months.
📌 Factors That Affect Their Final Size
- Species/Subspecies:
- Most pet beardies are Pogona vitticeps, which grow the largest (up to 24 inches).
- Other types, like Rankin’s dragons, are smaller.
- Diet and Nutrition:
- A balanced diet of insects and veggies helps them grow properly.
- Calcium and vitamins are important for bone development.
- Tank Size and Environment:
- Larger enclosures encourage movement and proper growth.
- Proper UVB lighting and heat are essential for healthy metabolism.
- Genetics:
- Some beardies are just naturally bigger or smaller than others.
🏠 Enclosure Size for an Adult
Because adult bearded dragons grow up to 60 cm (2 feet) long, they need a spacious tank:
- Minimum enclosure size:
🦎 120 cm (4 feet) long × 60 cm high × 60 cm deep
Bigger is always better for their physical and mental health.
FAQs About Bearded Dragon Size
🐉 How long does it take for a bearded dragon to reach full size?
Around 12–18 months, depending on care and genetics.
🐉 Can bearded dragons grow too big?
No—if cared for properly, they grow to their natural size. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, not extra growth.
🐉 Do males and females grow the same size?
Males are usually larger and have a broader head and more pronounced beard.
🐉 What’s the smallest bearded dragon species?
Rankin’s dragons (Pogona henrylawsoni) stay around 30 cm (12 inches)—great for smaller spaces.
Conclusion
A fully grown bearded dragon can reach 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) and weigh up to 600 grams. They grow quickly in their first year and need good food, lighting, and space to reach their full potential.
With the right care, these friendly reptiles make fascinating and long-lived companions—some live up to 10–15 years or more!
Also Check:
• How Big Do Hermann Tortoises Get?
• How Big Do Hermann Tortoises Grow?
• How Big Does a Horsefield Tortoise Get?
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