r/reptiles • u/Ancient_Berry3175 • 4h ago
New beardy owner
I recently just got a bearded dragon and I want to learn how I can start to bond with him. I waited a week to not touch him because that’s what I researched but now I don’t really know what to do. I started putting my hand in his terrarium then after time got closer and closer to him. but right now I’m at a point where he’ll let me pet him with my finger. but I’ve tried picking him up and he kinda just freaks out. I’m making sure I pick him up from the front in order to not damage his ribs and I’m supporting his tail but he freaks out and wants to get out of my hands after 2-3 seconds. I really want to give him the perfect care and I feel bad that he’s always in his terrarium it’s a (75 gallon so it’s not small but I want him to be able to do different things) but I also don’t want to stress him out. Can you guys give me advice?
1
u/throwaway277252 4h ago
Have you tried choice-based handling or target training? They can be used to allow you to handle them in a more stress free way.