PetSmart Bearded Dragon Guide & Cost 2026
If you’re thinking about getting a bearded dragon from PetSmart, you’ll want to know what to expect in terms of costs, setup requirements, and ongoing care.
PetSmart is one of the most accessible places to purchase bearded dragons and supplies, making it a common starting point for new reptile owners. If you’re still deciding between species, we cover every reptile they stock in a separate guide.
Here’s what you need to know about buying a bearded dragon from PetSmart, including pricing, what’s included, and how to prepare your home for this popular pet.
Key Highlights
- Bearded dragons at PetSmart typically cost between $40 and $150, depending on age, size, and color variation, with additional setup costs ranging from $300 to $600 for tank and equipment.
- PetSmart offers starter kits and live food supplies, but these bundles are often overpriced compared to independent retailers, so shopping around can save money.
- Bearded dragons require specific care including a 40-gallon minimum tank, UVB lighting, heating, live insects, and vegetables, which should be factored into your total ownership cost before purchase.
How Much Does a Bearded Dragon Cost at PetSmart
The price of a bearded dragon at PetSmart ranges from $40 to $150, depending on several factors.
Younger dragons or those with standard coloring typically fall on the lower end of this range. Older juveniles, rare morphs like translucent or leather-backed varieties, and dragons with vibrant coloring command higher prices.
➤ It’s worth noting that PetSmart’s pricing is generally competitive with other chain pet stores, but local reptile breeders or specialty shops may offer lower prices or healthier animals.
Before committing to a purchase, compare prices across multiple sources and prioritize the health of the individual dragon over the lowest price.
What It’s Actually Like Owning One
Bearded dragons are one of the most handleable reptiles you can own. Most tolerate daily handling and even seem to enjoy sitting on your shoulder or lap. They’re calm, curious, and rarely aggressive, which is why they’re so popular with first-time reptile keepers.
They live 10 to 15 years with proper care, so this isn’t a short-term pet. That’s over a decade of feeding, lighting, and vet visits. Make sure you’re ready for that kind of timeline before you buy.
Initial Setup and Equipment Costs
Buying the dragon itself is only part of the expense. You’ll need to invest in a proper enclosure and equipment before bringing your new pet home.
➤ These startup costs typically range from $300 to $600, sometimes more depending on your choices.
Tank and Enclosure Requirements
Bearded dragons need a minimum tank size of 40 gallons for adults, though larger is better.
A 40-gallon breeder tank or a 36x18x18 inch enclosure is the standard. PetSmart sells glass tanks and reptile enclosures, but you can often find competitive pricing elsewhere. Expect to pay $150 to $300 for a proper tank.
Many PetSmart locations sell starter kits that bundle the tank with some equipment.
These kits are convenient but frequently overpriced by 20 to 40 percent compared to buying items separately. Keep an eye on seasonal deals and markdowns if you’re going the kit route.
Lighting and Heating Equipment
Bearded dragons require both UVB lighting and heat lamps to survive in captivity.
UVB lighting is essential for calcium metabolism and preventing metabolic bone disease. You’ll need a UVB bulb, a heat lamp, a basking bulb, and appropriate fixtures or hoods.
➤ Quality UVB bulbs cost $15 to $40, while heat lamps and fixtures add another $50 to $150.
➤ Thermostats and temperature gauges are additional necessities that cost $25 to $100.
PetSmart carries these items, though online retailers sometimes offer better deals on specific bulbs and equipment.
Substrates, Decorations, and Hides
Your bearded dragon needs a suitable substrate for the tank floor.
Avoid loose substrates like sand, which can cause impaction. Tile, paper towels, or reptile carpet are safer options. Decorations, rocks, and hides also create a more enriching environment.
➤ Budget $50 to $150 for substrates, decorations, and climbing structures.
PetSmart offers a wide selection, but these items are often cheaper at home improvement stores or online.
Monthly and Ongoing Care Costs
Beyond initial setup, owning a bearded dragon involves recurring expenses for food, electricity, and veterinary care.
Food and Feeding Expenses
Adult bearded dragons eat primarily vegetables with occasional live insects.
Juveniles require more insects and less vegetation than adults. Live insects include crickets, dubia roaches, and mealworms, available at PetSmart and other reptile suppliers.
Monthly food costs range from $30 to $60 depending on your dragon’s age and diet.
Crickets at PetSmart are convenient but more expensive per insect than buying in bulk from online suppliers. Vegetables are inexpensive if you’re already shopping for your household.
Utilities and Electricity
Running heating lamps and UVB lights costs approximately $10 to $20 per month depending on your local electricity rates and lighting schedule.
Bearded dragons need 10 to 12 hours of light daily, so this is a consistent expense throughout the year.
Veterinary Care
Annual checkups with a reptile veterinarian cost $75 to $150.
Treatment
Not all standard vets treat reptiles, so you may need to find a specialist in your area. Health issues like metabolic bone disease or respiratory infections can be expensive to treat, making preventive care important.
Budget at least $100 per year for veterinary expenses, though unexpected illnesses can quickly exceed this amount.
What You Actually Get When You Buy One
When purchasing a bearded dragon from PetSmart, you typically receive the animal and sometimes basic care instructions.
The company doesn’t provide equipment or food with the purchase unless you buy a starter kit bundle.
PetSmart does offer live food options at the point of purchase, which is convenient. It’s wise to do your own research beforehand rather than relying solely on in-store guidance.
PetSmart has a live animal return policy, but the terms can vary by store. Ask about it before you pay so there are no surprises if something goes wrong in the first couple of weeks.
Total First-Year Cost Estimate
When combining the dragon itself with all necessary equipment and first-year care expenses, expect to spend $800 to $1,200 during your first year of ownership.
- Bearded dragon: $40 to $150
- Tank and enclosure: $150 to $300
- Lighting and heating: $150 to $250
- Decorations and substrate: $50 to $150
- Food (12 months): $360 to $720
- Utilities and miscellaneous: $120 to $240
Subsequent years cost significantly less since you won’t need major equipment replacements, typically running $500 to $800 annually.
How to Spot a Healthy Dragon at the Store
Not all bearded dragons offered at PetSmart are equally healthy.
Before purchasing, spend time observing the dragon and checking for signs of good health. A healthy bearded dragon should be alert, responsive, and have clear eyes without discharge.
Things to Notice
Avoid dragons that are lethargic, have swollen limbs, show signs of respiratory distress, or have missing toes. The body should be neither overly thin nor severely overweight. A bumpy spine or visible bones can indicate poor nutrition or underlying illness.
A dragon that eats regularly and maintains a healthy weight is more likely to thrive in your home.
My Honest Take on PetSmart Bearded Dragons
A bearded dragon from PetSmart will run you $40 to $150 for the animal, with total first-year costs landing between $800 and $1,200 once you factor in the full setup. That’s real money, so don’t go in thinking it’s just a cheap pet.
PetSmart is convenient and has everything you need in one place, but compare prices before you check out. Get the enclosure running and dialed in before you bring your dragon home. That one step alone prevents most of the early problems new owners run into.
