Chinese Water Dragons, also known as Green or Asian Water Dragons, are a species of lizards mainly found in southeast Asia (China and India). They are considered one of the most popular exotic pets around the world.
Due to their smaller sizes and attractive appearances, Chinese Water Dragons easily catch the attention of pet lovers. However, pet lovers often fail to understand that these lizards require specific care and environments to survive.
But are Chinese Water Dragons good pets? Or, as a new pet owner, you must avoid these lizards. Let’s find below:
Are Chinese Water Dragons Suitable Pets For First-time Owners?
It is no longer a secret that the demand for Chinese Water Dragons as pets worldwide is increasing rapidly. Chinese Water Dragons have a beautiful green colour ranging from dark to light green with slanted stripes of green or turquoise on their bodies.
Chinese Water Dragons are one of the friendliest lizards you can ever find. But unfortunately, without proper experience and knowledge, you may not be able to keep them as pets for a long time.
These lizards are very sensitive and require special care and conditions to thrive. Hence, depending on your location, climate, and experience, the cost of keeping them as pets may rise significantly.
Chinese Water Dragons prefer to be loved and cuddled by their owners. They usually like when someone handles them with love and care. Handling them prevents the lizards from being aggressive.
When these lizards feel threatened, they either bite or whip their tails. But proper training and keeping them healthy can prevent the Water Dragons from biting.
Chinese Water Dragons are very active in their natural environment. They love to climb rocks, play in tree branches, and swim in the water.
Green Water Dragons are also very social animals. They usually live in pairs or groups. Even in captivity, they also feel comfortable living in groups.
Common Health Problems:
Chinese Water Dragons have similar health problems as other reptiles such as chameleons, monitor lizards, etc. Mouth rots, Metabolic Bone Disease (lack of calcium), Skin infections and parasites, and Egg binding or Dystocia are the most common problems of these lizards.
Lifespan:
The average lifespan of Chinese Water Dragons is between 10 and 15 years. But in captivity, with proper care, these lizards may live 20-25 years.
5 Reasons Why Chinese Water Dragons Can Be Amazing Pets:
However, it is not easy for a first-time owner to pet Green Water Dragons. These lizards can be amazing pets. Here are 5 reasons why Chinese Water Dragons are suitable pets for households:
- Chinese Water Dragons are very active if you can recreate an environment similar to their natural habitat. You can always see them climbing trees and rocks or swimming in the water.
- Green Water Dragons are very social. They can live in pairs or groups. Additionally, if you have other pets at home, these lizards can adjust with them.
- These lizards love to be cuddled, and you can often play with them whenever you want. Just make sure you don’t threaten them, or they might bite you.
- Normal reptile foods such as gut-loaded crickets, mealworms, waxworms, earthworms, grasshoppers, butter worms, locusts, feeder fishes, and cockroaches are their favorites. You don’t need to worry about feeding them.
- You may buy Chinese Water Dragons at a cheap price, such as $50-$70, from a reputable breeder or pet shop. However, a wild-caught lizard may cost even less.
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