Caring for Your Pet Water Dragon in Nashua, NH

Water dragons can grow up to 3 feet in length, including the tail. As a general rule, the enclosure should be at least twice the dragon's total length from nose to tail tip.

Asian water dragons are arboreal lizards, meaning they climb and prefer elevated spaces. Because of this, enclosure height is just as important as width. For example:

• A 3-foot water dragon requires at least a 6-foot-wide enclosure
• Enclosure depth should be at least half the dragon's length
• Ideal enclosure height: 4–6 feet

An ideal enclosure for a full-grown adult is approximately 7 feet wide x 3 feet deep x 5 feet high.

Water dragons may be housed together, but close monitoring is required. Males often tolerate other males better than females, but dominance behaviors can occur. Watch carefully to ensure one dragon is not guarding food, basking areas, or access to water.

Provide ample enrichment, including:

• Branches, logs, and climbing structures
• Rocks and basking platforms
• Hiding areas
• Plants (real or artificial)

Live plants that are safe and enriching include:

• Dracaena
• Hibiscus
• Ficus bushes
• Pothos
• Philodendron
• Spider plants

Rearrange furnishings periodically to prevent boredom. Clean all props regularly.

Do not use heat rocks, as they can malfunction and cause severe burns.

Water dragons require access to a large pool of water covering at least half of the enclosure floor space. The water should be deep enough for the dragon to submerge and swim comfortably.

• Place branches over the pool to allow diving
• Change water frequently to maintain cleanliness
• If creating a naturalistic vivarium with a permanent pool, use an aquarium filter

The remaining half of the enclosure should be a ground area.

Acceptable substrates include:

• Indoor/outdoor carpeting
• Artificial turf-style reptile carpet
• Shredded paper
• Alfalfa pellets

Avoid:

• Sand
• Corn cob
• Wood shavings
• Bark mulch

These materials can cause impaction, which may require surgical treatment.

Remove uneaten food, fecal matter, and urates daily. Clean and disinfect the enclosure at least once weekly using mild soap followed by a reptile-safe disinfectant or a dilute bleach solution (1 capful bleach per gallon of water). Rinse and dry thoroughly before returning your dragon.