In today’s posts we’re talking about bearded dragons shedding skin! We’ll answer questions like, “Can I help my bearded dragon shed?” and discuss ways you can help, ways you should not help, and when to consult a vet.
Skin shedding is a natural process that bearded dragons go through on a regular basis. The shedding process an essential component of keeping a bearded dragon’s skin healthy. But should you help your beardie shed? Sometimes, in some ways, but it’s important you know when, why, and how! It’s important for new bearded dragon owners to educate themselves on all parts of their dragon’s health.
I was personally excited the first time our bearded dragon shed skin, because it was a sign that he was healthy and growing! Young dragons shed their own skin quite often to keep up with their growth rate. Adult beardies don’t shed as often because they aren’t growing as fast any more, but they do still shed their outer skin to keep themselves in good health.
Why Do Bearded Dragons Shed Their Skin?
One of the main reasons beardies shed is because they are growing! Especially young bearded dragons, who shed more frequently. This was a pleasant surprised to my son, Kai, when our beardie, Bill, was young and would frequently shed. My son loved collecting the bearded dragon skin!
As a bearded dragon grows, they need to shed their skin every so often in order to keep up with their body’s growth. Bearded dragons shed their skin to accommodate growth, remove parasites, and renew their outer layer. This process is known as ecdysis and is a natural part of their life cycle.
How Often Do Healthy Bearded Dragons Shed Their Skin?
Bearded dragons typically shed their skin every 4 to 8 weeks, but this can vary depending on their age, health, and environmental conditions. Baby dragons shed more frequently than adult dragons, and females may shed less often than males. Regular shedding is a sign of a healthy bearded dragon, so if you notice any changes in the frequency or appearance of your dragon’s sheds, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue.
How long does a bearded dragon take to shed?
The length of time it takes for a bearded dragon to shed depends on several factors, including the size of the shed and the age and health of the dragon. On average, a shed can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to complete. Some dragons may shed all at once, while others may shed in stages over an extended period of time. If your bearded dragon is having trouble shedding or is taking an abnormally long time to shed, it may be a sign of a health problem.
What happens if my bearded dragon doesn’t shed?
If your bearded dragon doesn’t shed, it can lead to a number of health problems, including:
- Retained sheds: Retained sheds can cause skin irritation, infections, and mobility issues. If old skin is not removed, it can restrict growth and cause permanent damage to the new skin underneath.
- Impaction: If old skin accumulates in the mouth, it can cause impaction, making it difficult for your dragon to eat and drink.
- Respiratory issues: If the skin accumulates in the nostrils or around the mouth, it can cause respiratory problems and make it difficult for your dragon to breathe.
- Vision problems: Retained sheds can also affect your dragon’s vision, making it difficult for it to see and navigate its environment.
- Fungal or bacterial infections: Retained sheds can create a moist environment that is perfect for fungal or bacterial growth, which can lead to infections.
If your bearded dragon is not shedding normally or you have any concerns about its health, it’s best to consult a veterinarian. They can examine your dragon, diagnose any problems, and recommend the best course of action.
When Should You Help Your Bearded Dragon Shed
You should help your bearded dragon shed if it is having trouble shedding on its own. Some signs that your bearded dragon may need help include:
- Old skin not peeling: If the old skin is not peeling away, it may be stuck and your dragon may need assistance.
- Incomplete sheds: If your dragon is only shedding small pieces or only part of its skin, it may need help.
- Areas of retained skin: If there are areas of retained skin, especially around the toes or tail, this can be a sign of a problem and may require intervention.
- Difficulty moving: If your dragon is experiencing difficulty moving or has become lethargic, it may be due to a retained shed and may need help.
In general, it’s a good idea to observe your bearded dragon during shedding and provide assistance if needed. If you’re not sure whether your dragon needs help or if you have any concerns about the shedding process, be sure to talk to your vet.
Can I Help My Bearded Dragon Shed?
Yes, you can help your bearded dragon shed by providing the right conditions and a little bit of assistance. Here are the best ways to help your beardie have complete sheds in a healthy way:
- Increase humidity: A moist environment can help soften and loosen the old skin, making it easier for your dragon to shed.
- Offer a shedding box: You can provide a shallow box filled with moist substrate, such as coconut coir, to help your dragon shed more easily.
- Provide a bath: A warm bath can also help soften the old skin and encourage shedding. You should be giving your beardie regular baths! Our beardie loves bath time.
- Gently rub the skin: You can gently rub the skin with a soft cloth to help loosen and remove any stubborn pieces of skin.
- Make sure they consume a healthy diet: Be sure your dragon is consuming a proper diet and clean water on a regular basis.
It’s important to be gentle and avoid using any creams or oils, as these can irritate the skin and cause health problems.
Does it hurt to help a bearded dragon shed?
It should not hurt a bearded dragon to help it shed. However, if you’re not careful, you can cause injury or irritation to the new skin. To minimize any potential discomfort, it’s important to be gentle and avoid using any creams or oils. If you’re providing a bath or soaking the dragon, be sure to use lukewarm water, not hot water, to avoid causing any burns. Additionally, if you’re rubbing the skin, be sure to use a soft cloth and avoid using too much pressure, which could cause injury.
Should you peel skin off a shedding bearded dragon?
No, you should not peel skin off a shedding bearded dragon. The shedding process is natural and the old skin should come off on its own. If you try to peel it off, you risk damaging the new skin underneath and causing your dragon pain. It’s also possible that you could remove too much skin, leaving your dragon exposed and vulnerable. If your bearded dragon is having trouble shedding on its own, you can provide a moist environment, offer a shedding box, provide a bath, and gently rub the skin with a soft cloth to help soften and loosen the old skin.
What if my beardie has severe stuck shed?
If your bearded dragon has a severe stuck shed, you can do the following as a shedding aid:
- Increase humidity: Monitor humidity levels in your dragon’s enclosure. Improper humidity levels can cause multiple health issues.
- Soak the dragon: Offer a warm soak in shallow water to help soften the old skin. Be sure to supervise your dragon during the soak to prevent it from drowning.
- Gently rub the skin: You can gently rub the skin with a soft cloth to help loosen and remove any stubborn pieces of skin. Be sure to avoid using any creams or oils, as these can irritate the skin and cause health problems.
- Consult a veterinarian: If the stuck shed does not come off after trying these steps, or if there are areas of retained skin, it’s best to consult a veterinarian. A veterinarian can examine the dragon and determine the best course of action, which may include using a mild shed-assisting product or even a minor surgical procedure.
It’s important to address stuck sheds promptly to prevent skin infections, injury, or other health issues.
How do you get a stuck shed out of a bearded dragon’s nose?
If a shed is stuck in a bearded dragon’s nose, you should take the following steps:
- Increase humidity: Provide a moist environment by misting the skin regularly or placing a humid hide box in the enclosure. This will help soften and loosen the old skin.
- Soak the dragon: Offer a warm soak in shallow water to help soften the old skin. Be sure to supervise your dragon during the soak to prevent it from drowning.
- Gently remove the shed: Using a soft, damp cloth, gently rub the area around the nose and try to remove any loose pieces of shed. If the shed is particularly stubborn, you can try using a warm, damp cotton swab to carefully remove it.
Consult a veterinarian: If the shed cannot be removed easily or if your dragon is experiencing difficulty breathing, it’s best to take your beardie to the vet.
Other Posts You May Like: