Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I adopted a three legged bearded dragon about 2 weeks ago. His leg was bit off by a larger dragon when he was a baby. He had the same owner for 2 years, who barely handeled him, fed him only crickets, gave him no calcium or vitamins and didn't have him under a UBV light.

I now have him under a UBV light with a basking spot at 95 degrees. He's eating a good variety of veggies and occasional fruits. He's eating superworms and butter worms with a calcium and multivitamin suppliment. He seems to be pretty good at getting around even with the three legs.

My only problem is that he doesn't like being handeled at all. I can pet his head and back while he's in his tank, I can even pick him up. As soon as he's out of the tank with me holding him he freaks out. He goes all puffed out and black bearded on me, sometimes he hisses.

What can I do to make this a more pleasnt experience for the both of us? Any pointers on taming an unsocialized beardie? Thank you in advance for your suggestions.

The basking spot should be 105 (surface temp.) The hot side ambient should be mid to high 80's.

In September I took in a dragon that bites. They said he was about 8 months old. He hated me. If I came near he'd run or threaten to bite me.

I am very patient. Today, I would say he is just nervous. I can hold him, hand feed him, and he isn't totally freaked by all the other dragons. I tried to give him as little girlfriend but he was way too rough with her so he'll have to wait till he calms down a little more.

I think with time and the right accomodations and conditions yours will become tame also.

I got a male about 4 months ago that was very unhumanized and now he's a lap lizzard. You just need to handle him every day wether he likes it or not when he gets upset just keep petting him gently and talk to him over time he will get to know you and see you arent going to hurt him. Don't give up on him nothing comes instantly it takes time and alot of TLC to help unsocialized animals.