Reptile & Amphibian Forums

While taking my ball python for a vet appointment, I was told that local Animal Control picked up a baby water dragon. I have always liked them, and am currently in the process of researching for another possible pet.

I intend to build a large enclosure, but I would start it out in a 10 or 20 gallon. How long could a baby water dragon be happy in a 20 gallon glass tank? (i.e. How much time do I have to build a large enclosure?)

I built an enclosure for my bearded dragon out of melamine with vents, a plexiglass sliding door, and oak framing the door. Would this work for a water dragon? Would the humidity on the melamine be a problem?

Lastly, I want some opinions, as I have read many different things; what do you believe is the ideal size enclosure for an adult water dragon? (Dimensions, please)

Thank you all! I am very excited and researching hard.
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only way you can telll if a 10 or 20 gal is right size is how happy the dragon looks in it, and obiously if the tank just looks to small. i housed my first water dragon who was 12 inches, in a 20 gallon tank for 1-2 months befor it became obious it was to small, i upgraded to a 55 gal which was to narrow but did well for another 2 months. i built an enclosure 4x2x5 foot tall, it was a bit to much room as i did not furnish it correctly. but it was plenty of room for 2 21 inch water dragons.

So, your dragon seemed happy in the 4x2x5? I've also been considering what size cage to actually build. Does your dragon have a problem with rubbing its nose against the glass?
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