Bearded dragons are one of the most popular pet lizards due to their friendly and docile nature. They are also known for their unique behavior, including standing up tall on their hind legs. As a bearded dragon owner, you may have noticed your pet doing this and wondered what it means.
In this article, we will explore the reasons why bearded dragons stand up tall and what you can do if you suspect there may be an issue with your pet.
Why Is My Bearded Dragon Standing Up Tall?
Bearded dragons are known for their unique behavior, and standing up tall is one of the most common behaviors you will see.
There are several reasons why bearded dragons stand up tall, including territorial behavior, displaying dominance, preparing to mate, and illness or injury.
Territorial Behavior
Bearded dragons are territorial animals, and they will often stand up tall to assert their dominance over their territory. This behavior is most commonly seen in males, but females can also display territorial behavior. If you notice your bearded dragon standing up tall in the presence of other bearded dragons or pets, it is likely that it is trying to assert its dominance over its territory. This behavior can be seen when two bearded dragons are in close proximity or when a new bearded dragon is introduced to a tank that already has a resident bearded dragon.
Displaying Dominance
Bearded dragons also stand up tall to display dominance over other animals and humans. This behavior is most commonly seen in males, but females can also display dominance. If you notice your bearded dragon standing up tall in the presence of other bearded dragons or pets, it is likely that it is trying to assert its dominance over them. This can also be seen when a bearded dragon is being handled by a human and wants to assert dominance over the person handling it.
Preparing to Mate
Bearded dragons also stand up tall to prepare for mating. This behavior is most commonly seen in males, but females can also display this behavior. If you notice your bearded dragon standing up tall in the presence of other bearded dragons or pets, it is likely that it is trying to attract a mate.
Male bearded dragons will often puff up their beards, flare their gills, and stand tall to show off their size and strength to females. Female bearded dragons may also stand tall to show their readiness to mate.
Illness or Injury
In some cases, bearded dragons may stand up tall due to illness or injury. If your bearded dragon is standing up tall and displaying other signs of illness or injury, such as lethargy, lack of appetite, or difficulty moving, it is important to consult with a veterinarian. Illness or injury can cause a bearded dragon to have a change in behavior, which includes standing up tall.
How to Determine if Your Bearded Dragon is Standing Up Tall Due to an Issue
If you suspect that your bearded dragon is standing up tall due to an issue, there are several signs that you can look for.
Signs of Illness or Injury
If your bearded dragon is standing up tall and displaying other signs of illness or injury, such as lethargy, lack of appetite, or difficulty moving, it is important to consult with a veterinarian. These signs can indicate that your bearded dragon is not feeling well and may require medical attention.
Changes in Behavior
If your bearded dragon is standing up tall and displaying changes in behavior, such as aggression or lethargy, it is important to consult with a veterinarian. A change in behavior can indicate that something is not right with your bearded dragon, and a veterinarian will be able to determine the cause.
Consultation with a Veterinarian
If you suspect that your bearded dragon is standing up tall due to an issue, it is important to consult with a veterinarian. A veterinarian will be able to examine your bearded dragon, take its vital signs, and provide a diagnosis and treatment plan if necessary. They may also recommend further tests such as blood work or x-rays to determine the underlying cause of the behavior.
It is essential to note that bearded dragons, like all pets, can have an off day or a change in behavior due to environmental or dietary changes. It’s important not to overreact to a one-time occurrence of standing up tall, but rather observe your bearded dragon’s behavior over time, and if you notice any concerning changes or persistence of the behavior, consult with a veterinarian.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bearded dragons are unique animals that display a variety of behaviors, including standing up tall. This behavior can be caused by a variety of factors, including territorial behavior, displaying dominance, preparing to mate, and illness or injury.
As a pet owner, it is important to be vigilant and always observe your bearded dragon’s behavior, as small changes can indicate a larger problem. If you notice any changes in your bearded dragon’s behavior, such as standing up tall or other signs of illness or injury, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. With proper care and attention, your bearded dragon can live a long and healthy life.
My name is Ben and I run this site.
I’m a Dragon lover myself, so when I started this website, I knew I wanted to create an online resource for all things dragon-related. I’ve been collecting information and resources about Bearded Dragons for years, and I want to share them with you. I hope you enjoy the site!