How do I make my bearded dragons more comfortable with me?

Question

I have had them for about 2 weeks, and they seem to tolerate my handling them, but I don't want to stress them out. While I hold them they seem to breathe harder and sometimes jump away and start running. Are they really afraid or are they just wanting to run and be active? They do eat out of my hands and don't seem to have a problem with my hands in their cage. They are about 6 and 4 inches not including tails.

I really want the best for them so any info is welcome!

Thank you!

Answer 1

Holding them daily and feeding them by hand makes them warm up to you as they grow. They will associate you as their provider and a safe place. I think they are like puppies, who are more skiddish but grow out of it and relax more in the first year.

P.S. I love lizards and want some in the future. I have a Ghekko tattooed on my leg.

Answer 2

i don't think they're stressing, they just have to get used to the move and you. i'd handle them a couple times a day just for a couple min. even. i hand feed mine when i put their bowl in. just reach in and touch them here and there, they just need time.

Answer 3

Give them more treats.

Answer 4

It doesn't sound like they are afraid of you.

Remember the heat of your skin affects the reptile.  It will enjoy the warmth if it is in need of it, but if it starts to get too warm, it will want to move off your skin.  

It is actually good for them to run now and then, to keep in good shape.

Remember too that reptiles are born "wild," and only gradually learn to trust humans.  This is because they are not dependent on parents for care, but have to care for themselves from the time they hatch.  It's the opposite with birds and mammals; they won't be afraid of you when they are newborn, but as they become more independent they develop defensive reflexes.

Answer 5

u have to remember u have a wild animale and uv only hade it for two weeeks it could take longer but dont think that not holding it will help ull only make it worse evry day take 5 mins out of u day and spend quality time with it aslong *** ur holding it rit and are not hurting it he will aventully calm and also hand feeding builds more trust

tip

dont wear any strange colon or anything they mostly identify u by ur scent

Answer 6

I think they will get use to you after time, if you continue to hold them daily, or often, and feed them by hand, and etc... They will warm up to you, realizing that you won't harm them. Trust me they will get use to you. Maybe the other owners didn't handle them often, and they arn't use to it.  

Answer 7

Young animals are skittish.  In the wild, they have to be alert and fast so they aren't meals for other animals.

They don't realize you will protect them.  They hear and see better and differently than you do.  Bumps and noises that mean nothing to you, are seen/heard as potential predators to the baby dragons.

Also, you are a predator.  They may be comfortable with you, but their instincts are always there saying "RUN"!

Wait it out.

As they grow and learn your house, they'll settle down.  

Do keep handling them regularly.