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Why is my bearded dragon not shedding?

 If your bearded dragon is not shedding, there could be several reasons behind it. Shedding (or ecdysis) is a natural process for bearded dragons as they grow, and the frequency of shedding depends on their age, health, and environment. Here are some possible reasons why your bearded dragon might not be shedding:


1. Age

  • Young bearded dragons shed more frequently because they are growing rapidly. If your dragon is older, it may shed less often, which is normal.

  • Adult bearded dragons may only shed a few times a year, as their growth has slowed.


2. Health Issues


  • Dehydration: Lack of proper hydration can hinder the shedding process. Ensure your bearded dragon has access to fresh water and is adequately hydrated.

  • Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients, such as vitamins or minerals, can affect shedding. Ensure your dragon’s diet is balanced and includes calcium and vitamin supplements.

  • Illness or Stress: Underlying health issues or stress can disrupt the shedding process. Look for other signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or unusual behavior.






3. Environmental Factors

  • Low Humidity: Bearded dragons need proper humidity levels to shed effectively. If the enclosure is too dry, the skin may not loosen properly. Aim for a humidity level of 30-40% (slightly higher during shedding).

  • Incorrect Temperatures: Inadequate basking temperatures can slow down metabolism and shedding. Ensure the basking spot is around 95-110°F (35-43°C) and the cool side is around 75-85°F (24-29°C).

  • Lack of Rough Surfaces: Bearded dragons use rough surfaces (like rocks or branches) to help rub off loose skin. If the enclosure lacks these, shedding may be more difficult.https://www.beardiehq.com/2024/12/can-bearded-dragon-have-green-beans.html

4. Natural Shedding Cycle

  • Shedding is not always consistent. Your bearded dragon may simply be in a phase where it doesn’t need to shed yet. Monitor its growth and behavior to determine if this is the case.


5. Retained Shed (Dysecdysis)

  • Sometimes, bearded dragons may have difficulty shedding certain areas, such as around the toes, tail, or eyes. This is called retained shed and can be dangerous if not addressed. Check for any stuck shed and provide a warm bath or increase humidity to help.


What You Can Do:

  • Increase Humidity: Mist the enclosure lightly or provide a shallow warm bath to help soften the skin.

  • Provide Rough Surfaces: Add rocks, branches, or other textured items to the enclosure.

  • Ensure Proper Nutrition: Offer a balanced diet with calcium and vitamin supplements.

  • Monitor Health: If you suspect illness or stress, consult a reptile veterinarian.


If your bearded dragon continues to show no signs of shedding or exhibits other concerning symptoms, it’s best to consult a reptile vet for a thorough check-up.



Lizards shed their skin through a process known as ecdysis or molting, which is essential for their growth and health. Here's how it generally works:


  • Frequency and Purpose: Lizards shed their skin periodically to accommodate growth, repair damage, and remove parasites. The frequency of shedding can vary; young, growing lizards might shed every few weeks, while older ones shed less often. This process helps them maintain healthy skin and scales by replacing old, damaged skin with new, vibrant layers.
  • Signs of Shedding: Before shedding, a lizard's skin will become dull and its color might fade. The skin will start to loosen as new skin forms underneath. Lizards might appear less active, eat less, or even change behavior, becoming more irritable or secretive as the shedding process begins.
  • Process: The shedding process involves several stages:
    • Resting Phase: The skin is healthy, and scales are firmly attached.
    • Early Renewal Phase: Enzymatic reactions begin to separate the old skin from the new, and the skin's color dims.
    • Renewal Phase: Lymph fluid separates the layers, leading to patches or pieces of skin detaching. Most lizards shed in pieces, but some like alligator lizards and certain geckos shed in one piece like snakes.

    During shedding, lizards often rub against rough surfaces like rocks or branches to help peel off the old skin. They might also use their mouth to tear off skin in sections.
  • Post-Shedding: After shedding, lizards usually have a brighter, more vibrant appearance. Some species will eat their shed skin, which might help in regaining lost nutrients or reducing waste in their habitat.
  • Common Issues: If the habitat's humidity is too low, the skin can dry out and not shed properly, leading to "stuck shed," which can be harmful if it constricts parts of the lizard's body like toes or tail. To aid in shedding, owners can provide a humid hide or mist the enclosure to keep humidity levels appropriate for the species.
  • Health Considerations: Improper shedding can be a sign of underlying health issues like nutritional deficiencies, infections, or environmental stress. If a lizard consistently has trouble shedding, it might be wise to consult with a veterinarian.




This natural shedding process is not only crucial for physical growth but also for maintaining the lizard's overall health and vitality.

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