Can Bearded Dragons Eat Blueberries?TopFlight Dubia Explains

Posted by James Taylor on Apr 4th 2024

Imagine: you are sitting on your couch with your bearded dragon.

You have been munching on blueberries and wondering, “Can I share a little treat with him?” It is a common thought for many pet owners who love to share something with their pets. But when it comes to bearded dragons, their diets are much more specific and delicate than you might think.

So, it is important to know whether this fruit is truly safe for them.

So, here TopFlight Dubia will answer all your questions about blueberries for bearded dragons.

Can Bearded Dragons Eat Blueberries?

Yes, bearded dragons can eat blueberries, but in moderation (typically once a week).

Why Can Bearded Dragons Only Eat Blueberries Once a Week?

Beardies can eat blueberries, but as a treat. Let’s know why you can’t feed more berries to your pet.

1. High Sugar Content

Blueberries, like any other fruit, have a high sugar content. While the natural sugars in fruits are not harmful, feeding your beardie too many blueberries can lead to obesity, diabetes, and heart problems.

2. Imbalanced Calcium-to-Phosphorus Ratio

Bearded dragons need a calcium to phosphorus ratio of 2:1, while blueberries have a Ca:P ratio of 1:2. This means that blueberries should be offered as an occasional treat to provide antioxidants and prevent calcium deficiency and metabolic bone disease (MBD) in beardies.

Nutritional Value of Blueberries for Bearded Dragons

Here are the nutrients that blueberries contain that can be beneficial for bearded dragons:

Nutrients	Amount per 100g	Benefits For Bearded Dragons
Antioxidants	-	Helps with heart health and reduces inflammation.
Carbohydrates	13.2%	Provide a source of energy.
Vitamin C	2.01 mg	Supports metabolism, boosts immune function, and helps prevent inflammation.
Vitamin K1	-	Strengthens the immune system, supports vision, and aids in reproduction and growth.
Manganese	2.87 mg	Promotes immune system health, supports vision, and contributes to heart health.
Calcium	17.4 mg	Essential for bone health, growth, and metabolic functions.
Iron	0.577 mg	Supports oxygen transport, helps prevent anemia, and ensures proper blood circulation.
Vitamin E	0.386 IU	Acts as an antioxidant, supporting immune function and promoting healthy skin.
Vitamin B1	0.030 mg	Supports the nervous system, helps convert food into energy, and aids metabolism.
Vitamin B6	0.020 mg	Important for brain health, metabolism, and nervous system function.
Phosphorus	12.9 mg	Works with calcium for healthy bones and teeth, supporting skeletal health.
Magnesium	6.5 mg	Supports muscle and nerve function, contributing to healthy movement.
Zinc	0.667 mg	Boosts immune function, supports skin health, and aids in cellular repair.
Folic Acid	26.6 mg	Aids in cellular growth and repair, promoting overall health and growth.

Source: Nutritional Composition of Wild Blueberries (per 100g)

How To Feed Blueberries to Bearded Dragons

1. Wash and Serve

Always wash the blueberries thoroughly to remove any pesticides or chemicals that could be harmful to your bearded dragon.

2. Cut in Half ( If Necessary)

If you are offering blueberries to bearded dragons, ensure you cut the blueberries in half to avoid choking hazards.

NOTE: Cut the blueberries into bite-sized pieces smaller than the space between your bearded dragon's eyes.

3. Offer Blueberries Occasionally as a Treat

Blueberries should be given as an occasional treat, not as a staple food. Generally, feeding the blueberries in small pieces once a week is preferred. Too many blueberries can lead to excess sugar, which isn’t healthy for bearded dragons.

4. Remove After 30 Minutes

After offering blueberries, remove the unwanted food after 30 minutes. This prevents it from spoiling and ensures that bearded dragons don’t eat fruits that may have been sitting out too long.

Alternate Fruits That You Can Feed to Your Beardie

Fruits	Benefits	How Much to Feed	How To Serve
Strawberries	High in vitamin C and antioxidants.	A few times a week.	Wash thoroughly and slice into small and manageable pieces.
Mango	Potassium helps in regulating blood pressure and the nervous system.	A few times a week.	Peel the skin and remove the pit before feeding.
Papaya	Papaya is a great source of nutrients such as: Calcium Vitamin C Vitamin A Antioxidants Fiber Water Content	Once a week.	Peel the skin and remove the seeds before feeding in small cubes.
Peaches	Rich in vitamins A and C, peaches support vision, skin health, and the immune system.	Once a week.	Peel the skin, remove the pit, and cut it into manageable pieces.
Apples	Offers vitamins A and C, supporting overall health.	Weekly.	Remove seeds, core, and slice into manageable pieces.
Bananas	High in potassium, aiding in muscle and nerve function.	Once or twice a month due to high sugar content.	Slice into thin rounds.
Grapes	Lots of fiber and water content, which is beneficial for health.	Once a week.	Slice in half to prevent choking.

Conclusion

Bearded dragons can have blueberries once a week. Make sure to cut the blueberries into small bite-sized pieces and offer them as a treat. You can also feed your pet other fruits, such as grapes, apples (without skin), strawberries, and many more. Remember to maintain a balanced diet and consult a veterinarian for your bearded dragon's specific nutrient requirements. Feed blueberries in moderation for a tasty, antioxidant-packed treat – just remember, balance is key!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

01. How many blueberries can a bearded dragon eat?

Bearded dragons can eat a few berries a week. It is important to cut them into small pieces to avoid a choking hazard.

02. What berries can a bearded dragon eat?

Bearded dragons can eat raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries in moderation.

03. Can a bearded dragon eat frozen blueberries?

Bearded dragons can eat frozen blueberries, but make sure to thaw them before offering them to your bearded dragon.