Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Become a credit card member today!Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!APPLY NOWLearn More About Petco Pay Benefits
Why is my bearded dragon aggressive after a tank change or separation?
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
My juvenile bearded dragon has an odd behavior. When I first got her, she wouldn’t really let us pet her or hold her. She got used to us and finally let us grab her. After switching her tank and putting her in a bigger one, we also had separated her from another dragon, and for almost two months, she’s been aggressive again and won’t let us pet her etc. what can it be??
1 Answer
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on April 30th, 2018
The change in environment may have caused her some stress resulting in a bit of flightiness or aggression. Gradually re-acclimate her to you again. Start slow and easy by simply sitting near her enclosure. Progress to placing your hand in the enclosure for ever increasing periods of time, then to enticing her with a treat. Eventually, you should be able to handle her again.
Check environmental parameters to ensure adequate heat and lighting. Maintain a clean cage and proper diet. She maybe approaching a shed which could make her grouchy. The period between 6 and 8 months for most dragons can also be a "grouchy" time....think teenager attitude and behavior.
Be patient though, it will pass and she should settle down again.
Check environmental parameters to ensure adequate heat and lighting. Maintain a clean cage and proper diet. She maybe approaching a shed which could make her grouchy. The period between 6 and 8 months for most dragons can also be a "grouchy" time....think teenager attitude and behavior.
Be patient though, it will pass and she should settle down again.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful