Can Bearded Dragons Eat Apples?  What’s The Safe Amount?

As you may know, bearded dragons are a popular pet choice for many people due to their relatively docile nature and wide range of colors. One of the questions I get asked most often about bearded dragons is whether or not they can eat apples. The answer is yes and no.

While technically, bearded dragons can eat apples, it is not recommended as part of their regular diet. The main reason why apples are not recommended for bearded dragons is because they are very high in sugar. Bearded dragons can eat a small amount of fruit as part of a balanced diet, but too much fruit can lead to weight gain and health problems.

If you are considering feeding your bearded dragon an apple, be sure to consult with a veterinarian or reptile specialist first. And as always, make sure to wash the apple thoroughly before feeding it to your lizard friend! 

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How to Feed Apples to Bearded Dragons  

If you have decided to feed your bearded dragon an apple, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, only feed your bearded dragon a small piece of apple. A good rule of thumb is to give them no more than 1/8 of an apple per day.  

Second, be sure to remove the seeds and stem from the apple before feeding it to your bearded dragon. These can be a choking hazard, and the seeds also contain a small amount of cyanide, which is poisonous to lizards.  

Third, always wash the apple thoroughly before feeding it to your bearded dragon. Pesticides and other chemicals can be harmful to reptiles, so it’s important to make sure the apple is clean.  

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Finally, don’t forget to monitor your bearded dragon closely after they eat an apple. Some lizards may have a reaction to the fruit, so it’s important to be on the lookout for any signs of illness. If you follow these guidelines, feeding your bearded dragon an apple can be a safe and healthy treat!

Why Bearded Dragons Love Apples  

Despite the fact that apples are not the best food choice for bearded dragons, many of them still love to eat them! There are a few reasons why bearded dragons may be attracted to apples. 

First, apples are a bright red color, which can be very appealing to lizards. Second, apples have a sweet taste that many bearded dragons find irresistible.  

Finally, apples are a soft food, which can be easier for bearded dragons to eat than crunchier vegetables. If your bearded dragon loves apples, there’s no need to worry. Just be sure to feed them in moderation and monitor their health closely.

 Nutritional Benefits to Apples for Bearded Dragons

While apples are not the ideal food for bearded dragons, they can still provide some nutritional benefits. Apples are a good source of vitamin C, which is important for reptiles. They also contain a small amount of protein and fiber.

So, while apples should not be the main part of a bearded dragon’s diet, they can still be a healthy treat. Just be sure to feed them in moderation and consult with a reptile specialist if you have any questions.

Different Types of Apples To Feed a Bearded Dragon

There are many different types of apples you can feed your bearded dragon. Some of the most popular varieties include red delicious, Fuji, and Granny Smith apples. When choosing an apple for your bearded dragon, it’s important to select one that is ripe and free of blemishes. 

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You should also avoid apples that have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals. If you’re not sure which type of apple to feed your bearded dragon, it’s best to consult with a reptile specialist. They can help you select the best apple for your lizard friend.

Signs of Illness After Eating Apples

As with any new food, there is always a risk of illness when feeding apples to bearded dragons. Some of the most common signs of illness include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. 

If you notice any of these symptoms in your bearded dragon after they eat an apple, it’s important to contact a reptile specialist right away. They can help you determine if the illness is serious and provide the necessary treatment.

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Conclusion

So, can bearded dragons eat apples? The answer is yes and no. While technically they can eat apples, it is not recommended as part of their regular diet. Apples are high in sugar and can cause weight gain and health problems in bearded dragons. If you do decide to feed your bearded dragon an apple, be sure to consult with a reptile specialist first and feed them in moderation.

Wondering about other foods to feed your beardie? Check out our complete bearded dragon diet guide

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