How to Account For Deferred Revenue

Deferred revenue (also called unearned revenue) refers to money received by a company before it provides the related goods or services to the customer. It is shown as a liability on the balance sheet.^[1] Companies of all sizes and industries commonly enter into transactions involving deferred revenue. You can easily learn how to record deferred revenue properly with some understanding of the underlying accrual accounting concepts behind it.

EditSteps

EditDetermining What Revenue to Defer

1. Familiarize yourself with the accrual basis of accounting. Deferred revenue is an aspect of what is called the accrual basis of accounting. Under the accrual basis of accounting, revenues are recorded on the income statement when they are earned rather than received.^[2] This contrasts with the cash basis of accounting wherein the opposite is true.^[3]
   
   
   
   
   
   




2. Understand why you need to defer revenue. Accrual-based accounting requires you to defer unearned revenue because of a principle called the revenue recognition principle. The revenue recognition principle requires accountants to show revenues on the income statement in the period in which they are earned, not in the period when the cash is collected.^[4]
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • This requires a differentiation between realized and earned revenue. Realized revenue is revenue received regardless of whether the company has fulfilled its obligations to the purchaser. Realized yet unearned revenue is the subset of revenue which must be deferred.^[5]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • For instance, say a magazine company receives a twelve-month subscription for a monthly publication. The subscription costs $120, and the subscriber pays the entire cost of the subscription up front. Thus, before the company delivers any magazines to the customer, the $120 is classified as deferred revenue and represents a liability to the company. In other words, the revenue has been realized but not yet earned.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




3. Identify transactions involving deferred revenue. Deferred revenue deals with revenue realized in one reporting period but earned in the next. The reporting period can be monthly, quarterly, or annually depending on the company. Identify all customer orders as of the reporting period end date that have not been fulfilled, yet for which the company has already received payment. Report any transaction meeting this criteria as deferred revenue.^[6]
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • This includes items that have been paid in full but await shipment, as well as subscription-based revenues where the subscription period is still ongoing. Once these transactions have been identified, the accounting staff must calculate and record the amount of the deferral.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

EditRecording Deferred Revenue

1. Record the deferred revenue. Recording deferred revenue applies to the company's balance sheet. The company receives cash (an asset account on the balance sheet) and records deferred revenue (a liability account on the balance sheet).^[7]
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • In the example from Part 1, the company receives a $120 advance payment relating to a twelve-month magazine subscription. When the company receives payment (but before delivering the subscription), the company must record the entire amount of the payment as deferred revenue. To do this, the accounting staff will post the following journal entry:
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     • Debit Cash $120
       
       
       
     
     
     
     
     • Credit Deferred Revenue ($120)
       
       
       
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




2. Record the earned revenue. This journal entry affects the balance sheet and the income statement. This entry essentially updates the entry in the previous step by reducing the balance sheet liability and transferring the amount to the income statement.^[8]
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Consider the magazine subscription example. After the first month of the subscription, $10 ($120 / 12) of revenue has been earned and the deferred revenue amount is now $110. The accounting staff will transfer $10 from the deferred revenue account to the earned revenue account using the journal entry below:
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     • Debit Deferred Revenue $10
       
       
       
     
     
     
     
     • Credit Subscription Revenue ($10)
       
       
       
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




3. Continue adjusting the ledger until all the revenue is earned. The company's accountants must keep adjusting the balance sheet and income sheet over the course of the service.^[9] The adjusting entries will continue until the company has fulfilled its obligation of goods or services and the liability to the customer reaches zero.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Using the previous example, at that time, the deferred revenue account will have a balance of $0, and $120 of revenue will have been recognized.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

EditTips

• While accrual-based accounting is handled similarly in different countries, the exact process taken to defer revenues will vary based on each country's reporting standards. The examples above are consistent with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Standards (GAAP).
  
  
  




• Sales contracts can take many different forms, from point of sale purchases to subscription revenue and contract milestones. If you deal with an unusual or complex sales contract, determine the proper revenue recognition techniques before recording revenue or deferrals under the contract.
  
  
  




• The accountant should balance the need for recording deferrals with the extra work of calculating them. If your company will recognize 100% of revenue in the same month as the initial deferral, it may be possible to skip recording the deferral. This is true in most cases where the revenue is realized and earned in the same accounting period.
  
  
  

EditThings You'll Need

• Accounting software
  
  
  

EditRelated wikiHows

• Increase Revenue in Beauty Salon
  
  
  




• Maximize Ad Revenue on a Website
  
  
  




• Project Cash for Six Months
  
  
  




• Create an Excel Spreadsheet Annual Budget
  
  
  




• Calculate CAGR in Excel
  
  
  




• Prepare a Broad Working Capital or Cash Flows Budget
  
  
  




• Prepare the Statement of Cash Flows
  
  
  




• Do Common Ratio Analysis of the Financials
  
  
  




• Recognize a Demand Function Curve Among Standard Types
  
  
  




• Find and Analyze Demand Function Curve
  
  
  




• Maximize Revenue Per Price Via Excel
  
  
  

EditSources and Citations

Cite error: tags exist, but no tag was found

How to Turn Your Life Around After Depression

Depression can really change the way you look at life. You may have lost relationships, jobs, direction, hobbies, your health, dreams and goals, and your self-confidence. After a depressive episode you can get your life back by: setting attainable goals, increasing your positive social relationships, maintaining your physical health, and coping in healthy ways.

EditSteps

EditSetting Goals

1. Identify your priorities in life. Goal-setting is an important component of reducing the likelihood of future depression.^[1] In order to create positive goals for yourself, you may first need to identify your values or priorities. The deep desires of your heart tell you what will make your life happy.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Make a list of your values or things that you are important to you in life. These might include: family, friends, employment, love, money, and a home.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Think of things you've done in the past that you enjoyed and try to figure out how to incorporate those things into your life. Ever had a moment that you wished would never end? Those are the moments you can focus on in your life. This may be times with your partner, kids, close friends, time spent on things you are good at or enjoy (camping, writing, art, music, etc.).
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




2. Consider career opportunities. What you choose to do with your life in terms of occupation can have an immense affect on your well-being. After all, you may spend 40 hours or more per week focused on your career.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • If your old job didn't work for you, try something else. It's all experience and can help you to grow.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Do you want to get a new job soon or later in the future? Think about what kind of occupation you can handle, will be rewarding and enjoyable for you.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Be patient. If you don't get a job straight away, think of things that would improve your chances. Do some volunteer work, take a short course or earn some extra qualifications; this can do wonders for your self-esteem and your resume.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




3. Recognize positive activities to set as goals. When you are recovering from a depression it may hard to break the habit of inactivity and get back into the swing of things. However, staying active and busy can help reduce the likelihood that your depressive symptoms will return.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Focus on tasks or responsibilities that need to be completed. For example, you could: wash the car, cook a good meal, mow the lawn, pay a bill, go shopping, clean the house, do some studying, take care of a pet, tend to your garden, the list goes on and on. When you do small things like this it may help you feel more capable over time, and boost your confidence and self-esteem.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Think about what makes you feel good about yourself and proud of yourself. Make a list and do one thing on it every day. For example, some positive activities that might result in an increase in self-esteem include: sending someone a card, playing with your kids, giving money to charity, volunteering, getting involved in good causes, getting your hair done, planting a tree, running an errand for your elderly neighbor, or calling a friend you know is having a hard time. When it is done, pat yourself on the back and congratulate yourself on a job well done.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




4. Make a comprehensive list of goals on which you can focus.^[2] Once you have identified your priorities and specific activities you want to increase, you can write down a list of these goals. They can be as big or small as you like.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Make sure each goal is a SMART goal, meaning it is: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-limited.^[3] An example of a SMART goals would be to exercise three times per week by running for one hour, for the next month.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • One option is to create a goal or activity hierarchy of 15 items. List the activities from simplest to most difficult. Start by completing the easier goal first, then working your way up to the most difficult goal.^[4] A small and easy goal might be to walk your dog, while a large goal would be to get a promotion or a new job.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Congratulate yourself on each tiny step you make forward. Reward yourself through positive reinforcement when you make progress on a particular goal. Treat yourself to a spa day, massage, special dinner, or something else you enjoy (that is safe and not drug or alcohol related).
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




5. Evaluate your progress and makes changes accordingly. Goals are meant to be constantly evolving. For each goal you complete, you can begin to form new and more advanced goals. If you find that a goal isn't working for you, or you change your mind about it, change it to what you think will be more helpful.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Keep track of your daily activities and goals in a calendar.^[5] This can help keep you on track and increase your ability to remember important goals and tasks.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Once you complete a goal, make a new one! For example, if your first goal was to lose ten lbs. and now you want to lose a few more, focus on that. Or, if you wanted to exercise more but got stuck in a boring routine of going to the gym, make a goal to go hiking or running outdoors.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Try to think positive, even when you experience a setback. Say things to yourself such as, “I had a setback but I will learn from it and do better next time. I know I can do this!” Write this mantra down and say it to yourself daily if that helps you.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

EditIncreasing Positive Relationships

1. Get professional support. When you are recovering from depression it is especially important to get professional help in order to help ensure that you depression does not return, or that it is less severe if it does. Thus, if you have already been attending treatment continue working on your treatment plan.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • If you already have a therapist, discuss new goals that you'd like to work on. Make sure you follow through and continue attending your appointments.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • If you don't have a therapist to help treat your depression, try it. This can be useful even if you aren't currently feeling depressed. A therapist or psychologist can help you reduce the likelihood of worsening depression by using specific interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which help to change your thinking to promote lasting well-being.^[6]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Continue seeing your psychiatrist and taking medication as prescribed.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Talk to a medical doctor about your health, diet, and exercise.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




2. Seek help if an addiction is affecting your life. Addiction can worsen the symptoms of depression, making recovery difficult.^[7] Whether it be substances, food, gambling, shopping, self-harm, sex, or eating disorders, you can get specialized addiction counseling. It may be necessary to treat the depression and addiction simultaneously, as depression and addiction are often closely linked.^[8]
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • One way to seek help is to speak with your medical doctor, therapist, or psychiatrist. They can give you a referral for chemical dependency treatment. Some therapists even specialize in drug treatment. You can participate in outpatient treatment or inpatient treatment (drug rehab).
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • You can also seek help by joining a 12-step group such as Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A) or Narcotics Anonymous (N.A).^[9][10]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Recovery from any addiction takes time, but it will be worth it in the end and will help to support your overall health and reduce your depression.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




3. Reconnect. Sometimes during a bout of depression people can lose contact with important friends, family members, and other interpersonal relationships. However, social support is so important to maintaining a depression-free lifestyle, reducing the likelihood that depression will re-occur, and bouncing back from difficult life situations.^[11]
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Send an email, text, card or letter asking how your friend is doing. Focus on the positive things you're doing in your life, and ask questions.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Phone a friend and invite her to meet up for lunch or a coffee.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




4. Join a support group. Social support, especially support from others that are in your same position, can be extremely useful in recovering from depression and continuing to maintain a healthy outlook.^[12]
   
   
   
   
   
   




5. Make new friends. After a depression you may feel well enough to cultivate new relationships, especially if you have discarded damaging or unproductive friendships. By doing the things you are interested in, you may be able to meet people with the same interests and similar personalities.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Join a church, club, sport team, community college, neighborhood center class, charity, etc.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Try Meetup.com, which is a useful website for finding groups of like-minded people with similar interests. Some examples include: singles groups, hiking groups, acting troupes, and rock-climbing enthusiasts.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Can't find the right group or club? You can start your own! Try starting a book club. Spread the word amongst friends and acquaintances, put ads up at local libraries, and ask everyone to bring a small plate to share. Or, you could start a fitness club and meet at a park and pay for a personal trainer, splitting the cost amongst the group.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Whenever you receive a social invitation, try to say yes. The more times you say yes, the more invites you might receive. Also, for every time a friend invites you to do something, invite them to something the following week. This keeps the balance equal and you both feel valued.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

EditMaintaining Your Physical Health

1. Treat medical problems. Sometimes depression can be related to medical issues, including hyperthyroidism, Parkinson's disease, or Huntington's disease.^[13] It may also be a aside effect of medication. If your depression isn't caused by your medical condition, your condition may still affect your mood if you are feeling ill and thinking negatively. It is difficult to be positive when you are in pain or physically ill.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Meet with your doctor regularly if you have chronic medical issues.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • If you notice an increase in depression coincides with a new medication or other medical treatment, consult with your doctor.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Take all of your prescribed medication for medical concerns. It may take a while to find the right one for you. When you start feeling better, keep taking your medication as this may help maintain your health.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




2. Focus on activities of daily living (ADLs). With depression it may be difficult to keep up with daily tasks such as bathing, cleaning, and general self-maintenance (i.e. washing your face or brushing your teeth).^[14] Once you have successfully overcome your depression you can begin to get back your basic routine. Taking care of yourself can help you feel better about yourself overall and reduce the likelihood that your depression returns. For example, when you stay in your pajamas all day, it's unlikely that you'll feel like leaving the house and doing something. However, if you take a long shower or bath, take care with your hair and makeup, pick out clothes you feel good in, you may feel much stronger and able to cope with the day.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Make a list of things you can do for self-maintenance. This list might include: washing clothes, shopping for new clothes, washing your hair, getting a hair-cut or style.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




3. Exercise. Exercise can help prevent and reduce symptoms of depression.^[15][16] As difficult as it is to put those sneakers on and tie the laces, after you have worked out you may feel ten times better both emotionally due to endorphins that are released in your brain.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Start off with a ten minute walk, and build up to 20. Doing that as often as possible may do wonders for you.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • If you have trouble getting up the motivation to exercise, try telling yourself, “I'll feel better when it's done.” Or commit to just doing five to ten minutes on an exercise bike or treadmill. Sometimes you just need to get over the initial challenge of getting up and moving, and after ten minutes you may feel like running for ten more.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • If you're after something more challenging, you will feel the endorphins bringing that “high” after a run, gym class, or other aerobic exercise.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

EditCoping Effectively to Reduce Recurrent Depression

1. Positively regulate your emotions. Studies suggest that people who have a history of depression may be more likely to use emotional regulation that actually keeps them depressed.^[17] This type of emotional regulation is associated with using negative coping strategies (such as drinking alcohol to excess) which increases depression instead of reducing it.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Avoid rumination. When you ruminate, you replay a negative situation again and again in your mind.^[18] While you may be replaying a situation to try and pinpoint what, exactly, went wrong, ruminating tends to only intensify negative feelings and offers little insight.^[19] Instead, try asking yourself: “What, if anything, can I change?” Make a list of small, manageable goals that address things that are within your power to change.^[20] It may also help to disrupt the thoughts if you go for a walk or exercise.^[21]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




2. Catch negative thoughts and change them. Everyone has negative thoughts from time to time. However, the more negative thoughts you have, the more depressed you may feel. This is because our thinking has much to do with how we feel. Instead of believing negative self-talk, you can learn to challenge them and develop positive thinking habits.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Think of your thoughts as hypotheses or fleeting ideas instead of as facts. If you have a negative thought such as, “This situation is terrible. I hate it,” question your perception of the situation. This is called cognitive reappraisal.^[22] Is it all that bad? Is it really so terrible or can you try to cope with it? It is possible that you can change the way you think about it or find a way to help it be better? Tell yourself, “It isn't so bad. It sucks, but I can deal with it.”
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




3. Use positive self-talk. Individuals who suffer from depression may get into the habit of self-loathing or negative self-talk. Some examples include thinking, “I'm not good enough. I'm a failure. I'm stupid.” If you have similar negative thoughts, these will most likely lead to negative emotions. In order to combat this thinking you can use positive affirmations.^[23][24]
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • An example of a positive affirmation is thinking, “I'm doing the best I can and it's good enough for me. It doesn't need to be good enough for someone else.”
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




4. Engage in activities that make you feel happy. Leisure and pleasure are an important part of having a positive sense of well-being. Being active can increase your ability to cope with stressful or depressing life events.^[25]
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Make a list of pleasurable activities and schedule them in each day. For example you could plan to: watch a movie, read a book, eat a favorite food, go for a walk, take a bubble bath, go to a library or museum, go window shopping, buy fresh flowers, get a beauty treatment or your hair done, or go out to dinner.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




5. Focus on the positive. Sometimes individuals with a history of depression have difficulty focusing on the positive aspects of their lives. Yet, your ability to focus on positive thoughts and activities can increase your positive emotions and decrease depressed mood.^[26]
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • One way to focus on the positive is to keep a pleasurable events journal with either photos or writing. It can just be a few sentences about one thing that was good that happened that day, or a photo of one thing you found interesting or pretty.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Focusing on the positive also has to do with choosing appropriate activities that are going to increase your positive mood. For example, select appropriate viewing material; if you are feeling sad- don't watch the news, or a sad movie. This is just not helpful for people who are already tending to dwell on the negative things of life, it only adds fuel to the fire. So, turn off the news and read a positive and uplifting book. Or, flick straight to the sport section of the paper or the comics.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

EditWarnings

• If you are currently having thoughts of self-injury or suicide, please call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 in the US.
  
  
  

EditRelated wikiHows

• Prevent a Depressive Episode if You're Bipolar
  
  
  




• Cope With Depression on Your Own
  
  
  




• Feel Better when Depressed
  
  
  




• Deal With Bipolar Disorder As a Teen
  
  
  

EditSources and Citations

Cite error: tags exist, but no tag was found

How to Care for Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons, or “beardies”, tend to be good-natured companions, whose natural curiosity and apparent enjoyment of human company make them a popular pet. They are native to parts of Australia and are now widely available in pet stores and from breeders. Before getting a bearded dragon, take some time to inform yourself about their particular environmental and nutritional needs, as these require special attention (this is why they are not recommended as children's pets). With the right information, you can prepare for your dragon's arrival and help keep your new friend healthy and happy.

EditSteps

EditChoosing a Bearded Dragon

1. Research bearded dragons before buying one. Bearded dragons have specific needs that must be met, so owning one requires some advance knowledge. At this time, you decide whether a beardie is the right pet for you, and make sure that you have everything you need before bringing your dragon home.^[1]
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Be aware that bearded dragons, while they make delightful pets, are not ideal for children. They require close attention to detail, such as correct temperatures and regular replacement of UVB bulbs.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




2. Choose a bearded dragon that is over 6 in (15 cm) long. Baby dragons can be very fragile and more apt to become ill or overly stressed. It's much easier to care for a more developed bearded dragon.^[2]
   
   
   
   
   
   




3. Look for an alert beardie.^[3] When you walk up to the enclosure, the dragons should be watching you with interest and should have bright, alert eyes. You don't want a dragon that can't lift its head or looks lethargic.
   
   
   
   
   
   




4. Observe whether the dragon has any deformities. It should have no sores, burns, pus, external parasites, or deformities.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Note, however, that many dragons may be missing toes or bits of their tail, but this will not cause them any discomfort as long as the wound looks healed and shows no sign of infection.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




5. Bring your new beardie to the veterinarian. Shortly after purchasing your dragon, make an appointment to visit the vet, who can check for any parasites and evaluate the dragon's overall health.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • It may help to bring a stool sample on your first visit. Inquire about this when you call to make the appointment.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • There are no vaccines recommended for bearded dragons.^[4]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

EditProviding the Right Habitat for Your Bearded Dragon

1. Note that most beardies are housed alone. Larger beardies may be aggressive towards smaller ones, and males tend to be territorial. This is further complicated by the fact that it can be difficult to sex bearded dragons when they're young, so you may not know whether you have a male or female beardie at first.^[5]
   
   
   
   
   
   




2. Purchase a vivarium instead of a terrarium or aquarium. As opposed to a terrarium or aquarium, which have four glass sides, a vivarium has solid walls on three sides with a glass frontage. A terrarium is difficult to keep adequately hot, so your beardie will either be chilled or your heating bills sky high. Note that the vivarium has to be at least 3'x1'x1.5′.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • If a vivarium is not available, opt for a glass aquarium with a screen top.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • If you're building an enclosure yourself, keep in mind that it must be well ventilated, easy to disinfect, and able to maintain high temperatures (see below).
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Cages with wooden sides must be sealed with polyurethane or a similar waterproofing agent, and the joints must be caulked for proper cleaning and disinfection. Ensure that fresh polyurethane be allowed to dry several days and air the cage out thoroughly before placing your beardie in it, otherwise toxicity may result.^[6]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




3. Make sure the habitat is an adequate size. Beardies can grow up to 2 feet (61 cm), move fast, and like to climb, so they need plenty of space in their home.^[7] For young dragons, a 10 gallon (39 L) tank is adequate,^[8] but this will last them only for a few months, as they grow quickly. An adult dragon requires much more room: a minimum of 55 to 60 gallons (208 to 227 L) is required,^[9] but 75 to 120 gallons (284 to 454 L) is preferable.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • If you're building an enclosure, make sure it is at least 48 in (122 cm) long, 24 in (61 cm) wide, and 18 in (48 cm) high.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • To save money, you can purchase a large adult habitat immediately. Consider using adjustable partitions to increase the living space as your beardie grows.^[10]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




4. Use screen lids for the top of the enclosure. Do not use glass, plexiglass or wood to cover your cages. This will not allow enough air circulation and will also trap humidity in the cage. Screen tops ensure there's adequate air flow, allow your lighting and heat sources to work correctly, and also let humidity escape.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Ensure that the lid fits tightly.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




5. Provide flooring. The bottom of the enclosure should be lined with a substrate that is safe for your dragon and easy to clean. It is very important to choose a material that does not put your dragon at risk: beardies often eat bedding made of small particles, which can result in impaction (blockage of the intestines) and death. Use flat newspaper, paper towels, butcher paper, or reptile carpet.^[11] These choices are cheap, easy to clean, and pose no health risks to your animal.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • If using reptile carpet, the type that looks and feels like grass (Astroturf) is the best. The felt kind has little loops of fabric that may catch the nails of your dragon and cause injury.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Never use sand, shavings, corncob, fiber pellets, kitty litter, potting soil with vermiculite, pesticides, fertilizer, or wetting agents, or any other loose substrate for bearded dragons.^[12]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




6. Include some “furniture” in the housing. Create an environment where your beardie can climb, hide, and bask – all behaviors that it needs for well-being.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Add some branches for climbing and basking. They should be securely located under the secondary heat source (see Part 3). Make sure they are as wide as your bearded dragon. Oak is a good choice, as are boards covered in carpets. Avoid wood with sticky sap or pitch.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Provide some smooth rocks for basking and wearing down nails.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Give your beardie a place to seclude itself. You can add an empty cardboard box, cardboard tube, or flower pot. The hiding place should give a snug fit and be placed high in the enclosure. If your dragon doesn't use the hiding space, try moving it to a new location or using a different object.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Put in a few plants to provide shade, humidity, and a sense of security. Make sure the plants you choose are nontoxic to bearded dragons (such as Dracaena, Ficus benjamina, and hibiscus). It is important that the plants and their soil have not been treated with pesticides, vermiculite, fertilizer, or wetting agents. Before putting the plant in the cage, wash the plant with a water spray and pour water enough water on the soil so that it drains out the bottom: this helps remove any toxic chemicals. You may also want to keep newly purchased plants in a separate part of the house for a while before introducing them to the bearded dragon's  enclosure.^[13]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

EditControlling Temperature and Light

1. Provide a primary heat source. You'll need a source of heat that maintains temperatures within the enclosure at a level comfortable for the bearded dragon. Dragons like temperatures between 78 and 88 F (25 to 31 C) during the day, and evening temperatures between 70 and 79 F (21 and 26 C).
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Use a series of incandescent lights above the top of the cage. Keep in mind that they'll need to be turned off at night, when another heat source will be necessary, depending on the temperature in the room.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Try a heating pad under the cage or a ceramic infrared heater as an evening source of heat.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • There are reptile-specific incandescent bulbs which emit heat but little visible light; however, these are expensive.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • For larger enclosures, adjust the room temperature with a thermostat or space heater.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Always include a fire alarm in a room where light or other heat sources are in operation.^[14]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




2. Include a secondary heat source. Beardies like a temperature gradient in their habitat, allowing them to move between warmer and cooler spaces. The secondary heat source provides them with a spot where they can bask. This area should cover about 25-30 percent of the total enclosure surface, with a temperature of about 95-100 F (35-38 C). You can use a special basking light, or opt for a simple 30-75 watt incandescent bulb in a ceramic base. The source should be securely mounted where the animal cannot touch it.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Never use hot rocks as a heat source!
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Note that baby bearded dragons in a smaller cage space will need a lower wattage, otherwise the enclosure may become too hot.^[15]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Any temperatures above 110 F (43 C) are not recommended, but within a few degrees of these basking temperatures will be sufficient.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • One thermometer on the “hot side” and one on the “cool side” will make sure that your temperatures are in the correct range.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




3. Provide UVB lighting. Bearded dragons require ultraviolet light in order to produce Vitamin D, which in turn aids calcium absorption; insufficiency can lead to metabolic bone disease. You can use either fluorescent or mercury vapor bulbs; the former need to be replaced approximately every six months, since UVB output diminishes over time.^[16] They should have about 12 to 14 hours per day of exposure.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Make sure the fluorescent bulb has at least 5 percent UVB (check the packaging for these specifications).
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Look for light strips that cover the length of the enclosure.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Consider reptile-specific black lights in the 290-320 nanometer range. (Note that these are not the same as plant-grow lights or psychedelic black lights, neither of which produces UVB rays.) You can choose bulbs that emit both white light and UVB, or UVB only.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Ideally, the UVB light source should be about 10-12 in (25.4-30.5 cm) from wherever the bearded dragon spends most of its time (such as the basking site) to ensure adequate exposure. It should be no farther than 18 in (45.7 cm) away.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Keep in mind that UVB rays do not pass through glass. Your UVB source should be above the mesh top of the enclosure, and the mesh should not be too fine.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • The sun is the best source of UVB rays. On sunny days when the temperatures are in the appropriate range (see Part 3, Step 1, above), place your beardie outside in a secure screen or wire cage with a locking door. Remember to provide some shade and hiding spaces, as well.^[17]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

EditFeeding Your Bearded Dragon

1. Feed items of an appropriate size. One of the most important things to keep in mind when feeding your beardie is that any and all food items it eats should be no bigger than the space between its eyes. If the food items are larger than this, it could cause choking, impaction, and hind-leg paralysis.
   
   
   
   
   
   




2. Give young bearded dragons a diet primarily consisting of small insects. Beardies are omnivores, meaning that they eat both animal and plant matter. However, hatchlings and juveniles have specific dietary needs. Offer as many tiny insects as your beardie will eat in a five-to-ten minute time frame. When your beardie stops eating, stop offering. Young bearded dragons can eat anywhere from 20-60 pinhead crickets a day.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Provide hatchlings with a diet of small insects. If you are caring for a very young bearded dragon, you'll need to give it very small prey, such as pinhead crickets and tiny, freshly molted worms. You can very gradually introduce day-old pinkie mice when they are ready.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Feed juvenile dragons (two to four months old) a mix of 80 percent small insects and 20 percent greens (see below for recommendations).
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Young dragons need to be fed two to three times per day.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




3. Give your adult dragon plenty of greens. The adult diet is about 60 to 65 percent plant foods and 30 to 45 percent prey items. Calcium-rich leafy greens and other veggies should make up the bulk of the diet.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Feed a “salad” based on collards, dandelion greens and flowers, escarole, endive, grape leaves, mustard greens, turnip greens, and/or watercress.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • You can add the following to the salad to balance it out: acorn squash, red and green bell peppers, butternut squash, green beans, lentils, peas, pumpkin and other winter squash, snow peas, sweet potatoes, and turnips. Cook or microwave squashes before feeding to soften them up.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Give the following veggies sparingly as treats: cabbage, chard, and kale (which are high in calcium oxalates and can cause metabolic bone disease); carrots (high in Vitamin A, which in high levels can be toxic); spinach, broccoli, and parsley (high in goitrogens, which decrease thyroid function); and corn, cucumbers, radishes, sprouts, and zucchini (these are low in nutrition).
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Spraying the greens with water will help them last longer and will also help keep your bearded dragon hydrated.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Shred the veggies and mix them together in the salad to encourage your beardie to eat a variety of foods, rather than just picking out its favorites.^[18]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




4. Feed fruit and certain plants as an occasional treat. You can also give your bearded dragon bites of the following: apples, apricots, bananas, berries, cantaloupe, figs, grapes, mangos, oranges, papayas, peaches, pears, plums, tomatoes, Ficus benjamina, geraniums, hibiscus flowers and leaves, pansies, petunias, pothos, rose petals and leaves, snail vine, and violets.
   
   
   
   
   
   




5. Provide prey to sub-adult and adult dragons once a day, along with the fresh greens. You can try feeding crickets, super worms, wax worms, mealworms, pinky mice, and hissing cockroaches.^[19]
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • “Gutload” the prey by feeding it a nutrient-rich diet one to two days before serving it to your beardie. For example, you can feed it ground legumes, cornmeal, carrots, sweet potatoes, collard greens, mustard greens, broccoli, spinach, apples, oranges, cereals, and rolled oats.^[20]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Any uneaten prey items should be removed from your dragon's enclosure.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • It is advisable to purchase the prey, since wild-caught prey (for example, something you catch in your yard) may have been exposed to toxic chemicals or have parasites that could be passed on to your dragon.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Lightning bugs are toxic to your dragon.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Silkworms are a good staple diet only if you have a sick or pregnant dragon.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




6. Dust a phosphate-free calcium supplement on greens and insects. Buy a calcium supplement in powder form (without phosphate added) and sprinkle it over the salad and prey right before serving. Do this once per day for juveniles (under two years of age) and once or twice a week for adults.^[21]
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • You may also want to supplement Vitamin D3.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Consult the product directions and/or your veterinarian about the amount of supplements to give, since over-dosing can lead to toxic levels.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




7. Do not get too alarmed if your bearded dragon does not eat. When it is time to shed, a bearded dragon may not eat. However, if it does not eat after more than three days and there is no sign of shedding, then your beardie may be ill. In that case, call your veterinarian to schedule an appointment.
   
   
   
   
   
   




8. Provide fresh water daily. Offer the water in a shallow bowl. Wiggling your finger in the water may also get their attention. Bearded dragons like things that move, so creating ripples in the water may pique their curiosity. However, many dragons do not drink from a water bowl, so you may have to drip the water slowly onto your dragon's snout with a dropper.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Beardies often defecate in their water bowl, so change the water once a day (or immediately if you notice fecal matter). For the same reason, you'll need to disinfect the bowl once a week with a 1:10 bleach-water solution to avoid any bacterial build-up.^[22]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • If your beardie is uninterested in drinking, spritz it lightly with water: it will lick the drops off its skin.^[23]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

EditMaintaining Hygiene

1. Provide baths. Bathing your dragon once a week will help keep it hydrated and also aid in shedding.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Bathwater should be warm on your wrist and not hot, much like Bathwater for a small child.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Make the water only as deep as your dragon's chest, or half-way up their front arms. Fill the tub until the water reaches the second knuckle on your index finger for adults and the first knuckle for the juveniles.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Never leave your Bearded Dragon unattended in the bath – accidents only take a second to happen.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • It's a good idea to disinfect your tub when the bath is over because dragons will often defecate in the water. Use a 1:10 solution of bleach and water.^[24]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




2. Keep their environment clean. You'll need to clean their enclosure, as well as the food and water bowls, once a week.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Mix a 1:10 solution of bleach and water in a spray bottle.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Remove your beardie from the cage. Have someone hold it, or place it in a safe enclosure.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Use hot, soapy water and a clean rag to wipe away any dirt or feces.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Next, spray the bleach solution across the entire surface of what you are cleaning until it is soaked and let it sit for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, scrub the surface with a rag or paper towel, making sure any old food or feces is removed.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Rinse all surfaces repeatedly with water until you can no longer smell bleach. If you still smell bleach rinse again.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




3. Keep yourself clean. Hand washing is very important when owning any reptile. Washing your hands before and after handling your dragon will help keep you and your new pet healthy. If you wash your hands before handling, you reduce the risk of passing anything on to your dragon. Washing your hands after handling greatly reduces the risk to you of contracting Salmonella. The risks of getting this are very slim to begin with, but hand-washing will even further reduce them. Your chances of contracting Salmonella from the food you eat are greater than your chances of getting it from your dragon.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Because bearded dragons may carry Salmonella, use a separate sponge to clean their food and water bowl, supervise children when handling them, and don't let them crawl around the kitchen. Also, avoid kissing your beardie, no matter how much you love it.^[25]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

EditHandling Your Bearded Dragon

1. Handle your beardie at least once a day. Bearded dragons tend to be curious, mellow creatures that appear to enjoy human company. Regular handling helps them get accustomed to people and minimizes stress during events like enclosure cleanings and trips to the vet.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Pick up your beardie by placing your hand under its belly and gently scooping it up. Let the dragon lay on your palm, and lightly curl your fingers around its abdomen.^[26]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




2. Consider wearing gloves and long sleeves. Bearded dragons have very rough skin, so this may protect you from light scratches.
   
   
   
   
   
   




3. Trim your beardie's toenails every few weeks. Your dragon's nails will get needle-sharp, so be sure to maintain them.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Wrap your beardie in a towel, leaving one leg exposed.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Have an assistant hold the beardie.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Use human nail clippers to take off the very tip of the nails. Do just a little, as lizards have a vein, called a quick, running through their fingers.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • If you do cut into the quick, stop the bleeding by dabbing a little cornstarch onto the nail with a cotton swab.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Alternatively, you can file your dragon's nails, or have a vet cut them for a nominal fee.^[27]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




4. Learn to read your beardie's body language. You'll understand your beardie better by recognizing certain gestures it makes.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Inflated beard: When a lizard wants to show dominance, or feels startled or threatened – this particularly happens during breeding season – it puffs its throat out.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Mouth gaping: As with the inflated beard, this gesture is meant to make the dragon look menacing, as a show of dominance or to scare off a potential aggressor.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Bobbing head: Males show dominance with this gesture.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Arm waving: Sometimes a dragon may hold up one front leg and slowly wave it, which is a sign of submission.
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   • Raised tail: This is commonly seen during breeding season. It can also be a sign of alertness and activeness. Juveniles tend to raise their tail when they're hunting prey.^[28]
     
     
     
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   




5. Bring your bearded dragon to the veterinarian once a year. After your initial veterinary visit, it is important to bring your beardie for an annual check-up. This helps detect any potential issues early, and keeps your friend as healthy as possible.^[29]
   
   
   
   
   
   

EditVideo

EditTips

• Despite what the article says, do NOT put a heat pad under the cage. Beardies get burned by them as they cannot tell it's hot; they are cold blooded and get their heat from the lights.
  
  
  




• Never use a heating rock! The Dragon is not able to tell that the rock is hot and will burn its stomach. This can be dangerous for your dragon. Use basking lights instead. This provides the proper heat source without causing damage.
  
  
  




• When misting, use RO water. This has been filtered and will not contain anything that could be bad for your bearded dragon.
  
  
  




• Mist your bearded dragon with water in the winter months. When humidity is low, help keep your beardie hydrated by misting him with a spray bottle filled with water several times a week.^[30]
  
  
  




• Do not clean anything for your beardie with a bleach solution! Even if you can no longer smell the bleach it leaves behind residue and your dragon can soak it up through their skin. Instead use pinesol and rinse until you can't smell it anymore, then clean again with distiller vinegar and rinse. Allow time to dry.
  
  
  

EditRelated wikiHows

• Hold a Bearded Dragon
  
  
  




• Choose a Pet Water Dragon
  
  
  




• Raise Bearded Dragon Hatchlings
  
  
  




• Teach a Bearded Dragon to Drink from a Water Bowl
  
  
  




• Clean a Bearded Dragon's Cage
  
  
  

EditSources and Citations

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