Why Isn’t My Bearded Dragon Growing? [Growth Chart]

When I first got my bearded dragon, I imagined watching it grow into a healthy, majestic little dinosaur. But weeks turned into months, and something seemed off—it just wasn’t growing.

If you’re staring at your bearded dragon’s tank, wondering the same thing, let’s figure this out together. Here’s a detailed growth chart and everything you need to know.

Bearded Dragon Growth Chart

Bearded dragons grow at different rates depending on their age, diet, genetics, and environment. Here’s a simple growth chart for bearded dragons that outlines their typical length and weight at different stages of their life:

Age (Months)Length (Inches)Weight (Grams)
Hatchling (0–1)3–44–6
Baby (1–2)5–98–20
Juvenile (2–6)8–1720–200
Sub-Adult (6–12)16–20200–450
Adult (12–18)18–24400–650 (or more)

Explanation

  1. Hatchlings: When they first hatch, bearded dragons are small, usually 3–4 inches long and weigh only 4–6 grams. They grow quickly in the first few weeks.
  2. Babies: Between 1 and 2 months, their growth accelerates. They can double in size and weight during this period.
  3. Juveniles: At this stage, they continue growing rapidly. Proper nutrition and UVB lighting are crucial for their development.
  4. Sub-Adults: Growth slows down slightly as they approach 6–12 months. They may gain more weight than length during this stage.
  5. Adults: By 12–18 months, they reach their full size, typically 18–24 inches and weigh 400–650 grams. Some may weigh more depending on genetics and diet.

Notes on Growth

  • Growth rates can vary. Smaller or larger dragons than the chart suggests can still be healthy if their diet and care are appropriate.
  • Proper UVB lighting, calcium supplementation, and a balanced diet (insects and vegetables) are vital for healthy growth.
  • Consult a vet if your bearded dragon’s growth is significantly slower or they appear underweight for their age.

This chart provides general guidelines, but individual growth will depend on how well they’re cared for.

Get the full scoop on Bearded Dragon—check out this must-read article! Male or Female? 3 Easy Ways to Check Your Bearded Dragon’s Gender

Why Is My Bearded Dragon Small For His Age?

If your bearded dragon looks smaller than others his age, don’t panic! There are a few reasons this might happen, and most are fixable. Let’s explore why your beardie might be a little behind in the growth department and what you can do about it.

Here’s a breakdown of why your beardie might not be growing as expected:

1. Diet Problems

A poor diet can slow growth. Bearded dragons need:

  • Protein: Live insects like crickets or Dubia roaches are key, especially when they’re young.
  • Calcium and Multivitamins: Without supplements, growth suffers.
  • Veggies: Greens should be a daily staple.

Personal Tip: When my first dragon, Spike, avoided greens, I sprinkled some calcium powder on his favorite bugs and tossed them into his salad. Worked like a charm!

2. Inadequate UVB Lighting

UVB is like sunshine for your beardie. Without it, they can’t absorb calcium properly, leading to weak bones and poor growth.

  • Use a high-quality UVB bulb (at least 10.0).
  • Replace the bulb every 6 months, even if it still lights up.

Lesson Learned: I once used a cheap bulb, and my beardie stopped growing. Upgrading his lighting made a huge difference!

3. Improper Tank Setup

A poorly set-up habitat can stunt your beardie’s growth.

  • Temperature: Basking area should be 95-110°F; cooler zones around 75-85°F.
  • Tank Size: A baby can start in a 20-gallon, but adults need at least 75 gallons.

Funny Story: My dragon refused to eat when the basking spot wasn’t hot enough. He gave me such an attitude until I fixed it!

4. Parasites or Illness

Parasites steal nutrients, making it hard for your beardie to grow.

  • Symptoms: Weight loss, lethargy, runny stool.
  • Solution: A vet checkup and deworming treatment if needed.

5. Genetics

Some dragons are just naturally smaller. Think of it like humans—some are petite, and that’s okay!

How to Help Your Beardie Grow

Here’s how to support your dragon’s growth:

  1. Improve Their Diet: Offer more protein (bugs!) and dust with calcium and vitamins.
  2. Upgrade Their UVB: Invest in a strong UVB bulb and ensure proper placement.
  3. Check Tank Setup: Fix temperatures, ensure the tank is big enough, and create hiding spots.
  4. Visit the Vet: Rule out parasites or illnesses.

Want the inside track on Bearded Dragon? This post is your go-to guide. A Complete Guide to Bearded Dragon Anatomy [Secrets Beneath the Scales]

When Small Is Still Okay

Not every small beardie is unhealthy. My dragon, Peanut, stayed on the smaller side but was active and happy his whole life.

Sometimes, small is just their style! With proper care, your bearded dragon will thrive—big or small.

How to Understand Your Bearded Dragon is Growing or Not?

Bearded dragons don’t grow overnight, but there are ways to check if they’re on track. When I got my first dragon, I obsessed over every inch and gram—so I get the concern! Here’s how you can tell if your beardie is growing properly.

1. Measure Regularly

Grab a tape measure and check these two things:

  • Length: Measure from the tip of their snout to the end of their tail.
  • Weight: Use a kitchen scale (one that measures in grams works best).

Pro Tip: I kept a weekly log for my beardie, Spike. Watching those numbers tick up was so satisfying!

2. Compare to Growth Charts

Here’s what a typical bearded dragon’s growth looks like:

Age (Months)Length (Inches)Weight (Grams)
Hatchling (0–1)3–44–6
Baby (1–2)5–98–20
Juvenile (2–6)8–1720–200
Sub-Adult (6–12)16–20200–450
Adult (12–18)18–24400–650 (or more)

If your beardie is close to these numbers, you’re good! If they’re lagging behind, something might need tweaking.

3. Monitor Behavior

A growing beardie is usually active and curious. They’ll eat well, explore their tank, and bask happily.

  • Red Flag: If they’re lethargic or not eating, they may not be growing properly.

Funny Moment: My dragon would puff up like a balloon after meals. I called it his “growing pose.”

4. Look for Physical Changes

Growing dragons shed frequently! Shedding is a sign their body is making room for new growth.

  • Baby dragons shed almost weekly.
  • Adults shed less often, but it still happens.

Personal Note: When my dragon Peanut shed for the first time, I thought he was falling apart. Turns out, it’s totally normal!

5. Check Tank Conditions

Growth depends on good care. Make sure:

  • Temps are spot-on (95-110°F in the basking zone).
  • They get enough UVB lighting.
  • They have a proper diet with bugs, greens, and supplements.

Get the full scoop on Bearded Dragon—check out this must-read article! Ultimate Bearded Dragon Bath Guide: 7 Essential Tips for a Safe Soak

When to Worry

If your beardie isn’t growing and seems sick or stressed, visit a vet. Parasites, poor lighting, or a bad diet could be the problem.

Remember, growth is gradual. Keep track of their progress, provide the best care, and enjoy watching them thrive!

Do Female Bearded Dragons Grow Slower Than Males?

Female bearded dragons do grow slower than males, and they tend to stay smaller overall. This isn’t a cause for concern—it’s simply how they’re built. Males are naturally larger because they use their size to establish dominance and attract mates.

On the other hand, females often channel their energy into reproductive needs, like developing eggs, even if they’ve never mated.

Typically, female dragons reach 18-21 inches as adults, while males can grow up to 24 inches. Growth rates for females may feel slower, especially during their juvenile stage, but with the right care, they still thrive.

Ensuring a balanced diet, proper UVB lighting, and a stress-free environment will support healthy development.

If your female is significantly smaller or isn’t growing, it could indicate an issue like parasites, poor lighting, or illness, and a vet check might be needed. While they may be smaller than their male counterparts, female bearded dragons are equally lovable and thrive at their own pace.

How To Make Bearded Dragon Grow Faster?

If your bearded dragon seems smaller than expected, don’t worry—there are ways to encourage healthy growth. It’s all about giving them the right care and environment. Here’s how you can help your beardie grow faster without cutting corners on their health.

1. Feed Them a Protein-Rich Diet

Baby and juvenile dragons need lots of protein to grow. Live insects like crickets, Dubia roaches, and black soldier fly larvae are excellent choices.

  • Offer 2-3 feedings per day for young dragons.
  • Dust their food with calcium and multivitamin powder 4-5 times a week.

My Tip: My beardie, Spike, loved chasing roaches more than crickets. Experiment to find their favorite snack!

If Bearded Dragon piqued your interest, this article will take you even further. 8 Genius DIY Bearded Dragon Hammocks That Your Pet Will Love

2. Provide High-Quality UVB Lighting

UVB is essential for absorbing calcium and growing strong bones. Without it, your dragon won’t grow properly.

  • Use a 10.0 UVB bulb and replace it every 6 months.
  • Position the bulb within 10-12 inches of the basking spot.

Lesson Learned: I once had a weak UVB setup, and my beardie stopped growing. Upgrading the bulb made a huge difference.

3. Maintain Proper Temperatures

Bearded dragons need the right heat to digest food and grow.

  • Basking Spot: 95-110°F for babies, 90-95°F for adults.
  • Cool Side: 75-85°F.
  • Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Pro Tip: If your dragon isn’t basking, double-check the temps. Mine once ignored his basking spot because it wasn’t warm enough!

4. Offer a Balanced Diet

As they grow, introduce leafy greens like collards, mustard greens, and dandelion greens. These provide essential vitamins.

  • Young dragons: 80% insects, 20% veggies.
  • Adults: 20% insects, 80% veggies.

5. Minimize Stress

Stress can slow growth. Ensure your dragon’s tank is quiet, has hiding spots, and isn’t too small. A cramped or chaotic environment can stunt their development.

Fun Fact: My beardie loved curling up in a log hide when he felt overwhelmed. Adding hides can make a big difference!

6. Check for Health Issues

If your dragon isn’t growing despite good care, a vet visit might be in order. Parasites, metabolic bone disease, or other health problems can interfere with growth.

Patience Is Key

Bearded dragons grow at their own pace, and it’s important not to rush the process. By providing a protein-rich diet, proper lighting, and a stress-free habitat, you’ll set your beardie up for healthy growth. Remember, slow and steady wins the race!

Muntaseer Rahman

About Author

Hello, I’m Muntaseer Rahman, the owner of AcuarioPets.com. I’m passionate about aquarium pets like shrimps, snails, crabs, and crayfish. I’ve created this website to share my expertise and help you provide better care for these amazing pets.

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