Are you wondering, “Why is my bearded dragon hissing at me?”
Known as a species that has various sizes and colors as well as interesting living behaviors, bearded dragons are the preferred choice as pets for lizard lovers.
However, due to their unique characteristics, it is totally normal for the owners, especially the newbies, to be confused with their pets’ reactions.
And one of the common questions that puzzle pet owners is, “Why is my bearded dragon hissing at me?”
With a burning desire to help, we will give you a hand to answer your question about the hisses of your pet.
And after having a look at this article, you not only be able to certain the explanations but also figure out the solutions for each case.
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Why Does My Bearded Dragon Hiss at Me?
1. They Hiss When Threatened or Are Aggressive
If a waving arm is a way for them to show their submission to you, then hissing is the warning sign to say, “back off” when they notice what could be considered as possible hazards that make them feel dangerous.
Some suggestions below may be the reasons that terrify your pet.
a. The Strange Things Around the Tank
Due to an outstanding vision that gives them the ability to see as good as humans, your beardie would be scared by the sudden appearance of the unidentified things or animals in their dwellings.
For example, the sight of the birds or some wild animals outside the window, your other pets like cats, dogs, and even your old toaster could be the explanation for the hissing.
b. Confront Other Fellows
If you have more than one beardie and put them in a habitat where they could see each other nearby, it could be exactly the reason for the hissing
They are loners, so it is understandable for them to show an unwelcome attitude and be extremely aggressive toward others such as hissing.
However, it is just a waving flag to caution about the violent fight that will happen in an unavoidable way between them unless you separate those beardies into different places.
c. Their Own Reflections
In the case when your beardie is just hissing inside the tank without any potential threats, maybe it has seen its reflection.
When seeing the reflections of themselves, their defensive mode will be turned on to warn off the interloper. But it is impossible for the reflection to go away, so they will keep staying in a state of extreme alertness that makes them tired and stressed.
This video may help you to calm your aggressive beardie:
2. They Hiss Out of Feeling Vulnerable, Afraid, and Anxious
Lizards are reptiles that are sensitive to the environment.
So it is normal for the beardies’ emotions to be affected by the unusual occurrences that make them hiss out of fear, distress, and unprotection.
a. Scared by the Unexpected Moves
When they see something “wrong” in their familiar proximities, it could cause stress that changes their status quickly and makes them act out of nervousness.
The bright lights, the sudden movement around the tank, or the different positions of the tank itself would be more than enough to lead to disturbance and significant changes in your pet’s mood.
In this case, hissing may not only be because they feel threatened but also mean that they are unpleased.
b. Feeling Unsafe in Their Own Home
The feeling of being safe is extremely important for your beardies, so plants and hides in their tanks should be necessary.
It not only gives them a place to cover themselves but also makes them feel a connection with nature.
However, not all the tanks are equipped with a suitable substrate. Some just have a small water bowl with fake plastic below and do not have any hides at all.
3. Hissing Is a Sign of Hunger
When the amount of food required to maintain life can not be achieved, just like any other animal (involving human beings), it is normal for them to act up when starving.
Being in a malnourished state, having serious dehydration, or having an unsuitable nutrition diet may cause them to be tired, have hunger pains, and feel unhappy.
In this case, hissing could be the way they used to communicate with you to give a request to have adequate nourishment and ask for more food and water or some edible materials, which have higher quality than what they have earned currently.
After finding out the answers to your curiosity about, “Why is my bearded dragon hissing at me?” we have some advice for you to resolve the master problem.
How to Stop My Bearded Dragon From Hissing at Me?
1. Build a New Tank
It is important for the beardies to feel safe in their own nest. The more their tank resembles their natural habitats, the better their developments are.
a. Find a Suitable Substance
If the tank you choose for your pet has or is made by glass, a strengthened mirror, transparent plastic, or any material that could be seen through clearly or reflect its own images, you should consider having a new one that is more appropriate.
The paper towel, sand or recycle old papers are easy options for an owner who doesn’t have enough money to invest in the tanks but all of those things may have drawbacks affecting your pet.
If you could put more effort into your tank, you should look for something like artificial carpet, ceramic tiles, and shelf liner, which are not hard to get but also could be cleaned up easily.
b. Having More Hides and Plants
Getting some hides, plants, logs, and branches could improve the environment in the nest and provide the place for your beardie to create the “escape plan” when feeling unsafe.
By the way, the plants are not only used to cover the sight outside the tank. It helps your pet from dealing with anxiety when seeing the possible threats that could be seen in the world around the cage but also hide its reflection.
You could find some hides, plants, basking rocks for your beardie at Amazon.
c. Upgrade Their Living Habitat
Temperature and humidity also could impact the frame of mind, making them comfortable or not.
You should have prepared the reptile-specific spectrum UV lighting and a heat lamp to make sure that the lights and the warmth are enough for your pet.
Moreover, the thermometer is an important tool for you to check the heat in a tank, and the humidifier that keeps the atmosphere moist in a tank should be considered.
This video will give you some ideas to decorate the tank for your beardie:
If the tank you made is perfect and provides everything that your pet need but your question about “how to stop my bearded dragon from hissing at me” hasn’t been answered, think about the food they are taking.
This article will help you find the best tank for your bearded dragon.
2. Take Care of Nutritional Requirements
The menu for your bearded dragon should not only include insects such as crickets, mealworms, and locusts but also fruits and vegetables like melon, apples, grapes, carrots, and sweet potatoes.
It is not difficult to choose the food for them but you need to balance between green food and meat in their meals.
a. Change Diet Daily
Being nourished with many selections of food for each day may help them to meet all their needs for strength and happiness.
It also avoids malnutrition and feeling bored.
b. Vitamins
To make sure that your beardie has been provided with all of the food requirements for their health, you should look for vitamin supplements and specialized calcium supplements for your pet.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bearded Dragon Hissing
1. Why Does My Beardie Keep Hissing at Me?
Maybe it considers you a threat. In this case, you should show that you are not going to harm it. You shouldn’t be frightened by its terrifying acts, too.
2. Why Does My Beardie Hiss at Me While We Are Playing Together?
The reason could be that your pet needs more privacy. It is important to have enough space and time for your pet to relax and be alone.
If you spend too much time that impacts their “alone time,” your bearded dragon may feel bored or encroached.
3. How to Stop My Beardie From Hissing at Me When I Try to Grab It?
Your pet may hiss at you because you approach it in the wrong way like grabbing it from above. If you do it in that way, it would think you are a predator and will hiss to warn you off. Or maybe your grab hurt them.
Read More:
4. How to Be a Friend With My Beardie So They Can Stop Hissing at Me?
You have to be slow and patient. Don’t flinch when it hisses at you. It would help to make it understand you’re scary.
When it shows aggression by opening its mouth, put food in it. Try to hold it in your hand every day and put it back when it begins to hiss.
5. Why Is My Baby Bearded Dragon Hissing at Me?
Because it takes time for your pet to be familiar with and stop being afraid of you.
You need to calm it down and befriend it slowly. All you need is to spend time on it so it will get used to you.
Conclusion
We hope you have already had the explanations for every time you wonder, “Why is my bearded dragon hissing at me?” We wish you and your lovely beardie to have a close-knit relationship forever.
Key points why your bearded dragon is hissing at you:
Bearded dragons are generally known for their calm and docile nature, making it quite surprising when they exhibit aggressive or defensive behavior, such as hissing. Here are key points to consider regarding why your bearded dragon may be hissing and how to respond:
1. Defensive Behavior:
- Hissing in bearded dragons is a form of defense, signaling their discomfort or stress.
- It’s a warning sign that they feel threatened or perceive a potential danger.
2. Handling Stress:
- Being picked up or handled improperly can stress your bearded dragon, prompting hissing.
- They may hiss to communicate their desire to be left alone.
3. Territorial Aggression:
- Bearded dragons can become territorial, especially males during the breeding season.
- Hissing may be a response to perceived intruders, including other dragons or even your hand.
4. Inadequate Habitat:
- An enclosure that’s too small or lacks proper hiding spots can make a bearded dragon feel vulnerable.
- They may hiss in response to stress from an unsuitable habitat.
5. Health Concerns:
- Discomfort from health issues, such as injuries, infections, or metabolic disorders, can lead to hissing.
- Regular health checkups are essential to address underlying problems.
6. Molting:
- Bearded dragons may become more irritable and hiss during the molting process.
- This is a normal response to the discomfort of shedding their old skin.
7. Egg-Laying:
- Female bearded dragons can hiss when they are gravid (carrying eggs).
- They may feel vulnerable and defensive during this time.
8. Babies and Juveniles:
- Younger bearded dragons may be more prone to hissing as they acclimate to their environment.
- It’s essential to handle them gently to minimize stress.
9. Proper Response:
- When your bearded dragon hisses, it’s crucial to respect their boundaries and avoid further provoking them.
- Allow them time to calm down and reduce handling if necessary.
10. Reevaluate Enclosure: – Ensure your bearded dragon’s enclosure is appropriate in size, with hiding spots and a comfortable environment. – Adequate lighting, temperature, and humidity are also essential for their well-being.
11. Regular Handling: – Gradually acclimate your bearded dragon to handling, starting with short sessions and positive reinforcement. – This can help reduce stress and hissing over time.
12. Seek Professional Guidance: – If hissing persists or is accompanied by other concerning behaviors or symptoms, consult a reptile veterinarian for a thorough evaluation.
In summary, hissing in bearded dragons is usually a response to stress, discomfort, or perceived threats. It’s vital to recognize the cause and respond appropriately, ensuring your pet feels secure and unharmed. Regular veterinary checkups and proper husbandry practices are essential for preventing and addressing underlying health or environmental issues. Patience, gentle handling, and creating a comfortable habitat can help reduce hissing behavior over time, allowing your bearded dragon to thrive in a stress-free environment.
