Bearded dragons are popular pets due to their friendly, peaceful, and social nature. They are easy to care for, making them a favourite among pet owners.
Unlike humans, bearded dragons cannot express their feelings through words. They can’t tell you when they’re hungry, tired, scared, or angry. However, they do show their emotions through certain behaviours.
When bearded dragons get angry, they can be pretty expressive. Pet owners often look for signs of anger and seek ways to calm them down, ensuring they feel safe and comfortable.
Understanding the causes and signs of an angry bearded dragon can help you manage your emotions and keep them at ease.
5 Signs of an Angry-Bearded Dragon
1: Continuous Hissing
If you’re a pet owner and notice your bearded dragon hissing continuously, it’s a sign of anger. They typically do this when they feel uncomfortable, whether due to a situation or the presence of other pets. During these moments, they open their mouths and hiss. There’s no need to worry if your bearded dragon behaves this way; it’s a normal response when they’re upset.
2: Starts Biting
Bearded dragons typically have a calm and friendly nature but may start biting when angry. This behaviour is rare and signals that the dragon is upset. Pet owners should wear gloves when handling their bearded dragons to protect themselves from potential bites.
3: Fluffing their Beards
When bearded dragons feel angry, they often puff out their beards, signalling danger. This behaviour makes them appear more significant, powerful, and intimidating. They may also fluff their beards when excited. Pet owners should be aware of this behaviour in their angry bearded dragons.
4: Head Bob
If you notice your bearded dragon bobbing its head continuously, it may signify frustration or anger. This behaviour is typical in male bearded dragons, mainly when directed towards female dragons, as a display of dominance. It’s normal for your bearded dragon to show this behaviour.
5: Opening Mouths Wide
Bearded dragons may open their mouths wide when they are angry. This behaviour is a way for them to display power and dominance.
5 Reasons for Bearded Dragons to Be Mad
1:Over Handling
Bearded dragons are generally calm and friendly pets. However, they can become angry for various reasons, including being overhandled by their owners. Each bearded dragon has its personality. Some enjoy staying close to their owners and cuddling, while others prefer solitude. When forced to interact or cuddle, these dragons can become irritated. Pet owners should understand their bearded dragon’s personality and daily preferences. Handling them gently and respecting their space is essential for their well-being.
2: Mating Season
Due to hormonal changes, bearded dragons may also become angry during their mating season. This is especially common in male dragons, who tend to become more territorial and dominant. They aim to assert control over their area and attract females. This behaviour is natural and not a cause for concern. Pet owners should ensure their bearded dragons have enough space and avoid invading their territory.
3: Shedding Time
Pet owners may notice their bearded dragons becoming angry when it’s time for them to shed their skin. Shedding can be uncomfortable, itchy, and even painful for them, which often leads to irritation. However, the response can vary depending on the bearded dragon’s personality. Some remain calm and composed during shedding, showing no signs of aggression. To support their well-being during this phase, pet owners should ensure their bearded dragons are well-hydrated and provided with nutritious food to help maintain their hydration levels.
4: Interacting with Other Pets
Bearded dragons may become angry when encountering other pets. Larger animals, like dogs and cats, can threaten them, as they may perceive them as predators. Some bearded dragons may hide from these pets, while others may react with anger. This behaviour can also signify the bearded dragon’s dominance over the other animals.
5: Alteration of Surroundings
Bearded dragons become accustomed to their surroundings, providing them with comfort. Any change in their environment can cause them to feel irritated and angry. Pet owners sometimes alter their bearded dragon’s tank, room, or other aspects of their habitat. These changes are unfamiliar to the dragon, and they may need time to adjust. During this period, it is normal for bearded dragons to display signs of anger.
3 Ways to Calm an Angry-Bearded Dragon
1: Warm Bath
If you notice your bearded dragon becoming irritated or angry, try giving it a bath in warm water. This can help calm and relax them. Bathing your bearded dragon helps soothe it and provides an opportunity to clean and bond with your pet.
2: Hold Them Close
One way to calm your bearded dragon is by holding it close and making it feel comfortable. If your bearded dragon starts biting, hissing, or twitching its tail, it’s a sign it enjoys being handled. However, new pet owners should learn to hold and handle their bearded dragons to avoid causing frustration or anger.
3: Feed Them
Feeding your bearded dragon their favourite food can help calm them down. These reptiles have a strong appetite and enjoy eating. If you notice your bearded dragon becoming agitated, try offering them a favourite meal. Ensure you provide nutritious options, like cucumbers, to maintain their health and happiness. As they grow, include foods like broccoli and oranges in their diet. If they don’t receive these, they will naturally become upset. Be mindful of their needs to keep them content.
Conclusion
Bearded dragons are typically calm and quiet pets. However, they can show signs of anger and require calming down from their owners. Over-handling is one possible cause of this behaviour. There are many reasons for their anger, such as encountering other pets and wanting to assert dominance over territory. During shedding periods, they may also feel irritated and frustrated due to the difficulty of the process. Understanding a bearded dragon’s behaviour is key to helping calm them down. A warm bath or exposure to sunlight helps ease their anger.
FAQs
What to do with an angry bearded dragon?
Bathing your pet dragon with warm water can help soothe their anger and make them feel calmer.
What is making my bearded dragon angry?
When bearded dragons are scared, they display anger. They may fear certain situations or other pets.
Why is my bearded dragon stressed?
Bearded dragons can experience stress from loud noises, new pets, changes in tank temperature, and improper handling by their owners.