You should provide fresh vegetables for your bearded dragon at least once a week. These include carrots, cabbage, celery, pea sprouts, and watercress. Some of the vegetables are goitrogenic, but they are also rich in fiber and vitamins. If you are unsure which vegetables are safe for your dragon, read our article on the pros and cons of each food. We also talk about which veggies are toxic to bearded dragons and why.
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Carrots
There are several benefits to feeding fresh carrots to bearded dragons. Not only are carrots loaded with Vitamin A, but they also help keep your dragon’s skin and immune system healthy. Carrots are also a great source of vitamin A and beta-carotene, which help your beardie’s skin and eye health. Carrots are also high in fiber, so your dragon won’t feel hungry for them. Carrots also are low in sugar, and are not likely to cause your beardie to become obese. But, it is important to remember that they can be toxic to your dragon, so make sure you know your beardie’s specific needs and don’t give them too much.
Zucchini
One of the most important aspects of a bearded dragon’s diet is fresh vegetables. Daily vegetables should comprise the majority of a dragon’s diet, while occasional insects can be added in small quantities or as a special treat. Plant matter should also be offered regularly, but the ratio of vegetable to insect food will vary from one bearded dragon to another. The following chart can be used as a guide.
Pea sprouts
You can feed your bearded dragon pea sprouts for several reasons. Peas are rich in protein and can cause your dragon to gain weight. It can also develop certain diseases due to the high levels of protein in peas. It is recommended that you feed your beardie two to three times a day. But if your beardie is too fat, you can reduce the frequency of feeding.
Watercress
Watercress is a green vegetable with a peppery taste. It is a member of the cabbage family and is widely available at many grocery stores. This leafy vegetable is safe to feed your beardie, as long as you give them a small portion each day. However, be aware that watercress is high in oxalate, a compound that is known to cause kidney damage.
Basil
Fresh basil for bearded dragons is safe for your pet, but be sure to offer only small amounts, as it can have a high calcium and phosphorus content. Basil is not a staple food for bearded dragons, but it offers numerous nutritional benefits. Basil is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which improve your beardie’s immune system, tissue growth, and kidney function.
Peas
Among the many nutritious foods for bearded dragons, fresh peas are a great choice. Peas contain high levels of vitamins and minerals, but are also low in fat and cholesterol. Peas can be given whole, but whole peas are not recommended for smaller beardie breeds. Make sure you thaw peas before feeding them to your beardie. Fresh peas are a wonderful source of fiber for your beardie, but it’s best to feed them only a small portion at a time.
Pea shoots
Bearded dragons can safely eat a variety of vegetables, including peas and pea pods. However, they may choke on whole peas, so you should make sure that you cut the peas into smaller pieces for your dragon to easily eat. Fresh peas are one of the healthiest options for your beardie, but they may not be as nutritious as other fresh greens.
Carrot tops
Using carrot tops as fresh veggies for your dragon can be a great way to introduce your child to healthy eating. Carrot tops are softer than raw carrots and make a great addition to salads. If you’re unable to find a healthy variety of carrots, consider grating carrots and presenting them to your dragon in salad form. If you don’t feel comfortable grating carrots, try slicing them into small pieces and preparing them as a tasty treat.
