What Does It Mean When Your Bearded Dragon Falls Asleep On You?

Ah, the tender moment when your bearded dragon falls asleep on you. Is there anything more heartwarming? As a bearded dragon owner, you’ve probably wondered what this adorable behavior means. This reimagined article will discuss the significance of your scaly friend’s slumber habits and how choosing the best substrate for bearded dragons can improve their overall well-being.

In addition, we’ll discuss some other body language of Bearded Dragons, such as licking you, waving, and more.

What Does It Mean When Your Bearded Dragon Falls Asleep On You?

When a bearded dragon falls asleep on you, it’s a sign that they feel comfortable and secure in your presence. This is a testament to the trust that you’ve built with your reptilian companion. But creating a cozy environment for your bearded dragon doesn’t stop there. Bearded dragon substrate plays a crucial role in their overall happiness and health.

Your Bearded Dragon Trusts You

There are many things you can do to bond with your Bearded Dragon. However, it may take some time, especially if your Beardie is still young.

However, it is possible, and when you have a great bond with one another, your Beardie may fall asleep on you.

If your Bearded Dragon falls asleep on you, it’s a sign of trust. When animals are sleeping, especially in the wild, they’re vulnerable to predators.

So, if your Beardie ends up dozing while lying down with you, that means they trust you to keep them safe. They feel safe with you around.

You can certainly take it as a compliment. When they fall asleep in front of you or on top of you, this is the highest form of trust you can get from your Beardie.

Your Bearded Dragon Likes Your Scent

Another reason why they fall asleep on you might be because they like your scent.

Your scent is another way your Bearded Dragon bonds with you. For example, they might associate your scent with something safe and comforting.

They may come closer to cuddle if they feel comfortable being around you. Eventually, they might relax so much that they’ll fall asleep on you.

For instance, this is another way you and your Bearded Dragon can bond together. When they get used to your scent, they’ll recognize you as their owner, the one who feeds them and the one who comforts them and keeps them safe.

Your Bearded Dragon Likes Your Body Heat

Finally, your Bearded Dragon might fall asleep on you because they like your body heat.

Remember, Beardies come from Australia, and they’re used to warm temperatures. So if they’re out of their terrarium for a bit, they might come to you for warmth.

However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that your Beardie is cold. So don’t feel like you need to put them back into their tank immediately.

If they’re coming to you, allow them to cuddle with you for a little bit and see what happens.

For instance, your Bearded Dragon may relax and fall asleep. Otherwise, if they’re restless, then you can try putting them back inside their tank if they need to bask.

Most likely, though, they’re looking for a bit of warmth and some cuddle time.

Learn more about bonding with your Bearded Dragon here.

The Importance of Bearded Dragon Substrate:

As a responsible bearded dragon owner, selecting the best bearded dragon substrate is vital to your pet’s well-being. The right substrate can help maintain proper temperature and humidity levels while also providing a comfortable surface for your bearded dragon to explore and rest on.

Loose Substrate: Pros and Cons:

Loose substrates, such as sand substrates, are popular choices among bearded dragon owners. They are easy to clean and provide a naturalistic appearance to the enclosure. However, loose substrates also pose the risk of impaction if ingested, which can lead to serious health issues for your bearded dragon. Consider the pros and cons of loose substrate carefully before making a decision.

Reptile Carpet: A Safer Alternative:

Reptile carpet is a popular alternative to a loose substrate for bearded dragons. This low-risk option eliminates the risk of impaction and is easy to maintain. With various colors and textures available, reptile carpets can also enhance the aesthetic of your bearded dragon’s habitat.

Creating the Perfect Environment

To ensure your bearded dragon’s happiness, create an environment that promotes both physical and emotional well-being. Choose the best bearded dragon substrate, such as a reptile carpet or an alternative to a loose substrate, to provide a comfortable, safe space for your scaly friend. Remember, a content bearded dragon is more likely to exhibit trust and affection, leading to more snuggles and nap sessions on your lap.

Should You Let Your Bearded Dragon Sleep With You?

If you’re sitting on the couch, cuddling with your Beardie, then yes. It’s okay to let them sleep on you. It’s a bonding moment and shows your Beardie is comfortable with you.

However, we don’t recommend allowing your Beardie to sleep in bed with you.

For instance, you could roll over, accidentally laying on top of your Beardie. But, on the other hand, they could roll over and fall off the bed, hurting themselves on the hard ground.

Also, Bearded Dragons need a regulated body temperature. At night, their tank should be between 68 and 74 degrees F. You can’t guarantee your bedroom will be that temperature for them. 

Read more about how beardies show affection here.

What Does It Mean When Your Bearded Dragon Opens Its Mouth?

Unlike falling asleep on you or licking you, there are quite a few different reasons as to why Beardies open their mouths.

So, what does it mean when Bearded Dragons open their mouth?

Here are a couple of reasons:

• They’re regulating their body temperature
• They may have respiratory issues
• It’s a sign of aggression

How can you tell which one it means, though?

If your Beardie has its mouth open while basking, then this is a good sign. It means they’re at the correct body temperature and trying to dispel some heat since they can’t sweat.

On the other hand, if you notice they’re breathing with their mouth open, it could be a sign of respiratory issues. They’ll do this when basking, in or out of their tank.

Bring them to the vet if you don’t know what the cause is.

Finally, they might be showing aggression toward you, someone else in the room, or another Bearded Dragon if you have more than one.

Beardies enjoy the company of humans over other Bearded Dragons. Also, if they’re not yet bonded with you, they may show aggression as a tactic because they might be nervous.

Watch this video: What Does It Mean When Your Bearded Dragon Falls Asleep On You?

What Does It Mean When A Bearded Dragon Waves?

You might look over at your Beardie inside their tank and notice that they’re waving in your direction. What does it mean when your Bearded Dragon waves at you?

Unfortunately, they’re not waving hello to you. In fact, waving is a sign of submission.

They could be submitting to you or their reflection if you keep them in a shiny glass terrarium.

In addition, it’s territorial. If more Bearded Dragons are around, they could be waving to show that the tank is their territory.

If you notice excessive waving, they might be scared, or you need to change up their tank.

For example, they may be able to see outside the window, have the wrong tank size and need more room, might have too much room (not enough hiding spaces) in their tank, or they see their reflection too often.

What Does It Mean When A Bearded Dragon Puffs Up?

Sometimes you might notice your Bearded Dragon’s beard is suddenly bigger. This occurs when your Beardie is puffing up.

Your Beardie puffs up when they feel stressed.

This action is common in baby Beardies or new Bearded Dragons that you’ve just adopted. However, they may not be used to their new environment yet.

In addition, some Bearded Dragons puff up when they feel threatened. Unfortunately, there’s nothing you can do about that. Puffing up is just a way for them to make themselves feel better.

However, if they are stressed and you know the cause of the stress, you can calm them down.

For instance, if you and your Beardie are bonded well, they might find comfort in your scent. So, you can try taking them out of their environment and holding them or playing with them.

In some cases, you can bathe them (if they like baths) and allow them to soak for a bit. 

What Does It Mean When Your Bearded Dragon Turns Black?

While it may look bad, it’s normal when your Beardie changes to black.

Bearded Dragons can change color in their legs, arms, tails, neck, or around their whole body. But what does it mean when they turn black?

There are quite a few reasons, such as the ones listed below:

• They’re regulating their body temperature
• They’re scared or stressed
• They’re looking for a mate
• They’re feeling territorial or aggressive
• They’re feeling sick or uncomfortable
• They’re feeling lonely
• They’re getting used to their new environment
• They’re not getting proper care or lighting

But, as you can see, there are many reasons, and it could be hard to pinpoint which one is the cause.

Luckily, you can rule out some of these causes. For example, check the temperature in the tank and monitor their food intake to ensure they’re in a good environment and healthy.

If they’ve been in their tank for a while and you haven’t engaged with them, take them out and play with them. They could be lonely and want your attention.

Also, if you believe they’re scared, stressed, or uncomfortable, you can do your best to comfort them however you can.

Overall, monitor their behavior and care carefully at all times.

If the behavior keeps up and you’re having trouble finding the cause, you can always bring them to the vet.

Conclusion

Bearded Dragons require a decent amount of care. Part of that care includes learning the body language of Beardies. Understanding the significance of your bearded dragon falling asleep on you is just the beginning.

Choosing the best substrate for bearded dragons can create a secure and comfortable habitat that contributes to your pet’s overall health and happiness. So, the next time your bearded dragon dozes off on you, you can rest easy knowing that you’ve provided them with the best possible care.

They’re social creatures and love to be in the company of their owners. So, sometimes they might be trying to tell you they want attention, or maybe they’re looking for some comfort.

Regardless, if your Bearded Dragon falls asleep on you, you can call that a win and know the two of you are well-bonded and good friends.

You can also read about how beardies show affection and how they like having fun here. Want to know if beardies make good pets for kids? Find the answer here. Read more about Bearded Dragons here. You can find our full guide to how to raise bearded dragons here and useful tips about traveling with bearded dragons here.