If you’ve got a bearded dragon, or are thinking about getting one, then you’re probably considering a habitat for your pet.
One of the first questions to ask yourself is “what size tank will work best?”
Getting the wrong size tank can lead to all kinds of issues such as:
- Stunted growth
- Stress and subsequent health problems
- Aggressive behavior (if you’re keeping two bearded dragons in an enclosure that’s not large enough)
In this post, we’ll go over tank sizes and how to pick the one that is right for your Beardie.
First off, here is our top overall pick, the Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium:
The reality is many of the best Bearded Dragon tanks are slightly higher or lower in terms of gallons than 75, so we’ve included tanks that are within a few gallons of 75 here.
While this tank is our top pick, there’s a lot to consider when choosing the best tank for your Beardie.
We’ll walk through how to select the right size tank, and factors to look for in choosing a tank.
The 5 Best 75 Gallon Tanks for a Bearded Dragon
- Best Overall – Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium
- Best Budget – The OIIBO Full Vision Glass Reptile Terrarium
- Best Durability – REPTI ZOO Large Reptile Tank
Let’s get you to the right tank for you and your Beardie.
In This Article
What Size Tank Do I Need?
The tank size you need depends on the size of your bearded dragon. A good rule of thumb is that the tank should be at least 2 times bigger than the length of your bearded dragon, and at least 1.5 times wider than its length. The minimum tank requirements are as follows:
- For baby bearded dragons – 20 gallons
- For juveniles – 30 and 40 gallons
- For adults 16 inches or more – 50 to 75 gallons
Generally speaking as long as you fill a larger tank with enough tank accessories so the tank isn’t barren, there’s not really a “too big” when it comes to Beardie tanks. There is, however, a “too small.” A Beardie without enough room in their tank can have series physical ailments introduced as well as general anxiety and stress from a lack of physical activity.
So we’d recommend either getting a small starter tank and a larger tank when your Beardie grows, or opting for the larger tank and making sure you have enough tank accessories to keep your Beardie busy in their tank.
How Big Do Bearded Dragons Get?
You can expect to have your bearded dragon for at least 10 years. While they are relatively small in size, they are one of the largest lizards in captivity. The average length of an adult is 20 inches and they can weigh up to 2 pounds. Bearded dragons are also among the most popular pet lizards due to their easy care requirements and docile nature.
They are easy to care for and can be a great first pet for a child. They are also one of the easiest lizards to handle and tame. Although the average lifespan of a bearded dragon is 10 years, it can live up to 20 years in captivity. The biggest threat to their life span is disease, so it’s important that you keep them healthy by providing them with proper care and an appropriate environment.
How to Size a Bearded Dragon Tank
Bearded dragons are active lizards, so they need to be able to move around. They also need a basking area that is at least 4 inches deep, as this will help them stay warm when they’re sunning themselves and enjoying their habitat.
Here are some things to consider when choosing a tank:
- Bearded dragons are large lizards that can get quite big — some males reaching up to 24 inches long (60 cm). That’s why it’s so important to choose a large tank for your bearded dragon that will allow him room to grow into his full size.
- If you want to house more than one bearded dragon together, then it’s recommended that you get a tank that’s at least 100 gallons. This will give them plenty of room to roam around and enjoy their habitat!
- Glass tanks are usually more expensive than plastic but they can also be heavier so shipping costs will be higher if you buy online. They also tend to be stronger than plastic making them more durable.
The best tank for bearded dragons is an enclosure with a flat or vented top. This type of setup allows them to bask in the sun and have easy access to their food. If you prefer glass tanks, please be aware that they can get foggy over time and will require frequent cleaning (ideally once every three months).
The Best 75-Gallon Tank Reviews
Assuming you have an adult bearded dragon, you’ll want a 50 to 75-gallon tank with enough room for food and water dishes, a rock or hammock for your dragon to warm themselves on, and a place to sleep away from the heat. Here are the best picks for a variety of uses:
1. Best Overall – Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium
Price (At Time of Publish): $562
The Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium is a beautiful and spacious way to display your reptiles. It comes with a removable top that allows you to access your reptile or amphibian easily, while still keeping them contained.
The clear glass sides allow you to see your pet while they are safely contained in their habitat. The Carolina Custom Cages terrarium features an adjustable light system that allows you to customize the lighting as needed.
The sturdy plastic construction is easy to clean and prevents your snake from escaping. This terrarium has many features to make caring for your snake more convenient. For example, the front panel opens easily so you can quickly feed your pet or clean its cage.
The removable top makes it easy to install lighting and ventilation systems inside the enclosure. Finally, this terrarium comes with a stand so that you can display it on a table or shelf rather than hiding it away in a cabinet.
- The Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium is designed for durability and easy setup. It is made with heavy-duty, rust-resistant powder coated aluminum for maximum strength.
- The terrarium features extra long dimensions (48Lx24Dx18H) that provide ample space for your pet reptile or amphibian.
- It has a hinged top panel for easy access and ventilation, as well as two doors on the side walls that can be opened or closed to regulate temperature.
- The terrarium also includes a UVB lamp holder, so you can easily provide your pet with the necessary light and heat they need.
- The Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium is not designed to last forever; over time it may become corroded by rust and other elements.
- This terrarium only comes in one size, so if you are looking for something bigger or smaller this might not be the best option for you.
- Though it includes some features to help regulate temperature, such as the two side doors, it does not come with any other temperature control accessories such as a thermostat.
- This terrarium is also on the heavier side, so moving it around might be difficult if you need to.
2. Best Budget Tank – The OIIBO Full Vision Glass Reptile Terrarium
OIIBO Full Vision Glass Reptile Terrarium 70 Gallon
Price (At Time of Publish): $399
The OIIBO Full Vision Glass Reptile Terrarium is a great option for anyone looking to bring the majesty of the natural world into their home. This 70-gallon tank is made from high-quality, durable glass and features a full-view design that allows you to enjoy your reptile’s activities from every angle.
It comes with a built-in lighting system, which provides your pet with plenty of light for basking in the sun or hiding in the shade. The lid has an opening for easy access to your pet, and it can be removed if you want to create more room inside the tank. The bottom piece is removable, so you can clean it as needed.
The terrarium comes with a front door that locks securely, allowing you to keep the door closed while your reptile remains inside. It also features an adjustable thermostat and three levels of lighting, so you can control the temperature and light level in your pet’s environment.
- The OIIBO Reptiles Premium White Knock Down Glass Terrarium is designed to be durable, with shatterproof glass and a steel frame for extra stability.
- It features an easy-open top for ventilation and access, as well as two knock down doors on the front for added convenience.
- Its large size provides plenty of space to create a safe and comfortable environment for your reptile or other pet.
- The terrarium also includes built-in cable management to keep cords organized and out of sight.
- The product comes with detailed instructions that make setup straightforward and hassle-free.
- This terrarium is backed by Amazon’s excellent customer service and satisfaction guarantee.
- The terrarium is heavy, weighing over 40 pounds, which may make it difficult to move or transport.
- It lacks the ability to regulate humidity levels, so you will need to purchase additional equipment if that is a concern.
- Some customers have reported that the instructions are not as clear as they could be, making assembly more time-consuming than expected.
- The terrarium also does not come with any additional accessories such as heating elements or lighting fixtures, requiring separate purchases for those items.
- The product is relatively expensive compared to other similar reptile habitats on the market today.
3. Best Durability – REPTI ZOO 85 Gallon Large Reptile Tank
REPTI ZOO 85 Gallon Large Reptile Tank
Price (At Time of Publish): $499
This tank has a sturdy metal frame and comes with easy-to-use locking casters, so it’s easy to move around. The removable glass lid makes it easy to clean, and the clear glass makes it easy for you to keep an eye on your pet at all times.
The large habitat comes with a secure locking lid and front opening door, which gives you easy access to your pet. It also includes a removable base tray that can be used for cleaning or feeding time.
The lid has an integrated lock that prevents unwanted escape from the tank. This high-quality tank has been constructed from durable, impact-resistant plastic making it perfect for all types of reptiles, amphibians, and other small animals. The bright white color helps increase visibility and can be easily cleaned using soap and water or any other household cleaner.
The bottom of the tank has a ventilated design that allows excess moisture to evaporate from the substrate without causing any issues with mold or mildew.
- Features a knock-down design, making it easy to assemble and disassemble for storage purposes.
- Made with crystal clear acrylic panels that ensure visibility of your pet reptile.
- Comes with adjustable ventilation windows and a removable roof to make feeding and maintenance easier.
- Has an built-in wire mesh top frame for mounting lamps and other fixtures safely, without any risk of electrocution or fire hazards.
- High level of security provided by the locking system on each panel to prevent escape from curious reptilian adventurers!
- Customizable lids available to create two separate environments in one terrarium if desired, allowing a different substrate in each space.
- Does not come with a built-in substrate box, requiring an additional purchase if desired.
- Smaller size than other similar terrariums on the market, making it unsuitable for larger reptiles and amphibians.
- Not ideal for high humidity environments due to limited ventilation options available.
- Limited decorative possibilities since acrylic panels cannot be painted or covered in any way without potentially damaging them.
- Can become quite expensive when factoring in the cost of additional accessories such as lights, thermometers, etc., required to properly care for pet reptiles and amphibians inside this terrarium.
- Difficult to clean due to the intricate design of the panels and fixtures.
What do Bearded Dragons eat?
Bearded dragons are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods. They feed on insects, plants, and other small animals in the wild. In captivity, they can be fed crickets, mealworms, wax worms, super worms, earthworms, and even pinky mice.
They will also eat leafy greens like collard greens, kale, dandelion greens, and mustard greens. Make sure to remove the stems from any plants you give your bearded dragon as they can cause impaction if eaten.
Some people feed their bearded dragons fruit such as bananas and apples as a treat but should not be fed on a regular basis.
What Accessories Are Needed for a Bearded Dragon Tank?
You will need an aquarium heater (be sure it is made for use with reptiles) and an under-tank heat pad or ceramic heating element. You can also purchase an automatic misting system with temperature control that will keep your bearded dragon hydrated and healthy.
Bearded dragons also need ultraviolet light in their habitat as they need a source of UVB light to absorb vitamin D3 from their diet. This helps them absorb calcium from their food, which is essential for strong bones and healthy growth.
Besides heat, light, and food, bearded dragons need a quiet place to sleep or get away from the heat to cool down. Hide-aways are covered areas where your beardie can take a nap or just cool down.
Bearded dragons are one of the most popular pet reptiles in the world and for good reason! They are easy to care for and make a great addition to any family. We hope this guide has helped you find the right tank size for your bearded dragon’s habitat.
Frequently Asked Questions
A 75 gallon tank can be suitable for a bearded dragon, but it’s important to consider the individual needs and preferences of the reptile. As a general rule, larger tanks are better for providing ample space for the beardie to move around and explore, as well as for creating a naturalistic environment.
The ideal size tank for a bearded dragon depends on several factors, such as the age, size, and activity level of the reptile. As a general guideline, a tank that is at least 75 gallons in size is recommended for an adult bearded dragon. This allows for plenty of room for the beardie to move around and explore, as well as for adding accessories and decorations that enrich the reptile’s environment.
A 65 gallon tank can be suitable for a bearded dragon, but it may not provide as much space as some experts recommend. Depending on the size and activity level of the reptile, a tank that is at least 75 gallons in size is recommended for an adult beardie. This allows for ample space for the reptile to move around and explore, as well as for creating a naturalistic environment.
While a larger tank can provide more space and opportunities for enrichment, a tank can be too big for a bearded dragon if it makes it difficult for the reptile to regulate its body temperature. Bearded dragons require a temperature gradient in their enclosure, with a warm basking area and a cooler side, in order to thermoregulate effectively. If the tank is too large, it may be difficult for the beardie to maintain the proper temperatures throughout the enclosure.
The best thing to put in the bottom of a bearded dragon tank is a substrate that is safe, comfortable, and easy to clean. Some popular options for beardie substrates include reptile carpet, paper towels, or natural substrates like sand or coconut coir. It’s important to avoid using substrates that can be ingested or cause irritation, such as wood shavings or gravel.
A 75 gallon tank can be suitable for a bearded dragon, but it’s important to consider the individual needs and preferences of the reptile. As a general rule, larger tanks are better for providing ample space for the beardie to move around and explore, as well as for creating a naturalistic environment. Depending on the size and activity level of the beardie, a tank that is 75 gallons or larger may be ideal.
In addition to a suitable enclosure, a bearded dragon needs a range of accessories and equipment to support its health and well-being. Some essential items for a bearded dragon tank include a heat source, a basking area, a source of UVB light, a hiding spot, and a water dish. It’s also important to provide the beardie with a varied and nutritious diet, as well as regular opportunities for exercise and enrichment.
A bearded dragon tank should be set up with the reptile’s needs in mind. This means providing a spacious and comfortable enclosure, with a temperature gradient that allows the beardie to thermoregulate effectively. It’s also important to include accessories and decorations that enrich the reptile’s environment, such as climbing structures, hiding spots, and plants. It’s important to ensure that the tank is well-ventilated and easy to clean, and that the beardie has access to fresh water and a balanced diet. Regular monitoring and maintenance of the enclosure is crucial for the health and well-being of the bearded dragon.
Additional Sources & Resources
We also have a series of resources about bearded dragons, including:
- Our look at The Best 75 Gallon Tanks for Beardies
- Our answer to the question “can bearded dragons eat cucumbers?“
- Our answer to the question “can bearded dragons eat cilantro?“
- Our answer to the question “can bearded dragons eat parsley?“
- Our answer to the question “can bearded dragons eat spinach?“
- Our answer to the question “can bearded dragons eat green beans?“
- Our Beardie owner’s guide to Bearded Dragon Poop
- Our answer to “Do bearded dragons bite?“
- Our answer to “how long do bearded dragons live?“
- Our guide to bearded dragon shedding
- Our guide to finding the best bearded dragon leash
- Our guide to finding the best heating lamp for bearded dragons
And you can check out these academic resources on bearded dragon environments:
- “The Bearded Dragon Manual” by Philippe de Vosjoli, David F. Wilkinson, and Robert Mailloux
- “The Bearded Dragon: An Owner’s Guide to a Happy Healthy Pet” by Melissa Kaplan
- “Bearded Dragons: A Complete Guide to Pogona” by Philippe de Vosjoli
- “Bearded Dragons for Dummies” by Liz Palika and Paul Hollande
Pet News Daily writers are experts in pet care, health and behavior. We are members of Society for Professional Journalists and practice ethical journalism.
