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Bearded Dragons can be quite friendly and enjoy interacting with others. Some even like to be petted, though others may not like to be touched all that much. Generally, those who like to be touched tend to prefer certain body parts. Often, these areas include their head, neck, and back. Generally, any area pointing outwards is acceptable, though some also like to be petted underneath their chin.
Be sure to always pet in the direction with the scales—not against the scales. In most cases, this will be towards the reptile’s tail. However, it does depend on the exact part of the dragon you’re touching.
Of course, it’s important to note that not all Bearded Dragons are alike; some may want to be touched in particular places. Always start slow and observe a Bearded Dragon’s body language to determine if they enjoy the interaction.
Do Bearded Dragons Like to be Petted?
Most Bearded Dragons like at least some attention. However, each reptile is an individual with different preferences. Some may be more social and enjoy being handled more than others. Certain Bearded Dragons may not like being petted at all.
You should always approach a Dragon slowly and watch their body language. Some Bearded Dragons enjoy being petted, while others may move away and hide whenever your hand comes out. Many will be somewhere in the middle, making it hard to determine if they’re enjoying the interaction.
Generally, Bearded Dragons that are enjoying the interaction will be relaxed. Some may even close their eyes. If the bearded dragon makes abrupt movements, they probably aren’t enjoying the interaction.
With that said, Bearded Dragons aren’t like traditional pets. They don’t crave attention like other pets and may not need to be petted very often. Be careful not to overhandle them, as this can cause serious stress and potentially injure them.
Do Bearded Dragons Like to Cuddle?
Bearded Dragons are not cuddly pets in the same way cats and dogs are cuddly pets. However, they are friendly and may enjoy interacting with their owners. Bearded Dragons are innately independent creatures, though.
Some Bearded Dragons may enjoy sitting on their owner’s laps or shoulders for short periods. They must be properly trained and socialized, of course. Otherwise, they may be too fearful to sit calmly with their owner. It’s important to socialize your Bearded Dragons early if you want them to enjoy interaction at all.
How to Socialize a Bearded Dragon
You’ll need to socialize your Bearded Dragon to ensure they like being petted. It’s important to socialize your pet carefully and early to help ensure they aren’t stressed by being handled and cared for.
Luckily, socializing a Dragon is easy and doesn’t require a strict schedule. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
How to Pet a Bearded Dragon
Petting a Bearded Dragon isn’t difficult. However, you must do it correctly. Otherwise, you may scare your bearded dragon or injure them. None of this will help your Dragon become used to you or make them enjoy being petted.
Here are some simple steps to pet your Bearded Dragon appropriately and carefully:
Final Thoughts
Bearded Dragons are social animals that can be friendly and enjoy interaction. Some may even enjoy being petted, while others may not enjoy much touching. Typically, those who like being touched tend to have specific preferred areas, such as their head, neck, and back, or even underneath their chin.
It’s important to always stroke in the direction of the scales, towards the tail in most cases, to ensure a smooth touch. However, it’s important to note that every Dragon is unique, and some may have their preferred places to be touched.
Always start slowly and pay attention to their body language to see if they are comfortable with the interaction. Be aware that it may take time for a new Bearded Dragon to warm up to their owner and others before being comfortable with petting.
Featured Image Credit: tavan150, Shutterstock
