Choosing the Right Substrate for your Vivarium

You will find that each person you speak to, and each website you visit will give you different advice on vivarium substrate for your bearded dragon. This of course always depends on the individual's experience with their choice of substrate. When considering what to use, along with if this is good for your bearded dragon, you may wish to consider the appearance of the substrate you choose as well as the cost. Here is a list of the choices I have come across with my own comments of what I have learnt about each choice:

Bark

It is easy to clean and is nice to look at. When deciding what to use I also needed to take into consideration what is available for me to purchase locally. This was available in all the local stores and came highly recommended as safer to use than other options such as sand. It does however absorb moisture when wet which can promote bacterial growth. Bearded dragons are prone to respiratory diseases so require a dry environment. It is also not the cheapest option going.

Sand

Sand appears to be the choice for a natural look to the beardie's vivarium. However, there appears to be a split decision into whether the use of sand may cause the dragon harm. Some believe that sand is fine to use but others believe that sand is a harmful choice of substrate, especially for baby beardies who tend to consume a lot of sand. Bark is bigger so less likely to be mistakenly eaten by the dragon. It is also believed that sand effects a baby beardie's breathing. Owners appear to advise that if you are going to use sand, do so when the beardie is an adult. Please also make sure the sand you use is not clay based.

Calcium sand

Calcium sand has the aesthetic benefits of plain sand. It is nice to look at and gives a natural feel to the tank. You can also get it in a variety of different colours. There is a mixed opinion on this sand, shop keepers have told me 'This is better for the bearded dragon as it is safe for the dragon's immune system in case they consume the sand' (which in my dragon's case is a highly likely thing). However online forums advise otherwise. All substrate has potential issues but its up to you to monitor your dragons and decide if it is right for them. I have tried calcium sand and another negative is that it causes the vivarium to smell extremely bad. Our Dragons are in our living room so wasn't a great choice of substrate.

Tiles

Ceramic tiles are attractive to the eye and easy to clean. They also retain heat which would be ideal for the Beardie's basking area, especially if you have chosen to use a heat lamp as covered in the heating section.

Newspaper

This is an economical choice as a newspaper is readily available. It is also easy to replace when cleaning your beardie's home. You may wish to consider its appearance, but it is a good option all the same especially with baby beardies.

Carpet

This can be easily maintained and has the same benefits as newspaper, being easy to clean. It is better in appearance but does cost more than paper. You can buy reptile carpet, but normal carpet is just as effective.