Last Updated on January 18, 2025 by Miranda
Do you enjoy taking your favorite bearded dragon with you and letting them explore? Do you like to save a penny?
If you provide your dragon with his own habitat and food, it will be much cheaper to house him.
A soft harness for a bearded dragon is one of them.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money if you want to be crafty with your beardie. In the following part, you’ll find out how to make a harness for a bearded dragon.
Things that you will require
We’ll go through everything you’ll require to create a bearded dragon harness.
You’ll need the following items before you start to make your bearded dragon harness:
Paracord
The bearded dragon leash will be made out of paracord.
If you’re unsure of the amount you need, get a little extra. It’s always better to have too much than too little in this case. You’ll also need some sort of sturdy material to use as an anchor point on your door. A doorknob works perfectly for this, but anything that can take the weight of your body without giving way will work in a pinch.
If you have some on hand, they’ll come in handy.
Otherwise, click the link to discover an item.
It’s feasible to use another sort of cord if the one you choose is robust and won’t fray. Don’t utilize yarn or rope.
When selecting paracord for your harness, opt for a durable, medium-weight type, typically rated around 550 pounds, which provides a balance of strength and flexibility. This ensures the harness can withstand tugging without breaking, while not being too bulky for comfort.
Scissors
You’ll require a sharp pair of scissors in order to cut a paracord. Avoid using dull scissors as they can hurt you.
Pony Beads
If you want to get really creative, you can use two-hole pony beads to make all kinds of patterns and designs. You can even string them together to make bracelets, necklaces, and other jewellery. Just make sure to have a good variety of colours on hand so you can really let your creativity shine!
Bearded Dragon Leash
A lot of bearded dragons pull on the leash, and this can be really tough on your hands and arms. A padded leash handle will help to cushion the impact and make it more comfortable for you. You may also want to look for a leash handle that has a built-in grip or strap, so you can keep a better hold on the leash.
Safety Considerations for Bearded Dragon Harnesses
Safety should always be a priority when creating a harness for your bearded dragon. The harness should sit snugly but never too tight, ensuring the dragon can breathe comfortably and move freely. Choose materials that are soft against their skin to avoid irritation or chafing. It’s also crucial never to leave your dragon unattended while they are on a harness, as they can get tangled or caught.
How to Make a Harness for a Bearded Dragon: In-depth Guide
Read the instructions thoroughly, or you could end up with a harness that your lizard can slip out of. Here’s everything you need to know to make a harness for your bearded dragons.
Bearded dragons come in various sizes, so adjust the harness to fit your specific pet. Measure the girth of your dragon’s body to cut the paracord to an appropriate length that will accommodate growth or changes in size. Make incremental adjustments and check the fit regularly.
1. Shorten Cord’s Length
In the beginning, shorten the cord’s length. Bearded dragons typically enjoy being handled and will often sit calmly on their owner’s shoulders or lap. If you are planning on handling your bearded dragons frequently, it is important to keep their nails trimmed so that they do not scratch you.
Remember that the leash should be twice as long as you want it to be. If you’re 5’6″ tall, a 4′ long leash is appropriate. You’ll need somewhere around 8′ of paracord for this project.
Note:
Tie a basic slip knot in one end of the cord, and then thread it through the loop on the front of the harness. Create a second slip knot about 6″ (15 cm) from the first one. This will act as a stopper to keep the cord from pulling back through the loop.
2. Insert Three Beads To Double Up The Cord
Make a loop at one end of the paracord by bringing the two loose ends together. String each subsequent bead through the two previous beads. When you reach the last bead, string it through the second-to-last bead and then back through the last bead (to lock it in place). You should now have a complete circle of beads with a loop on one side. Ensure that your pet is not uncomfortable.
Now that you have your basic design, it’s time to get creative! You can add as many beads as you want to your necklace, and arrange them in any pattern you like. Get creative and have fun!
3. Slide from Loop’s Inside at the End
Take the working ends of the cord and passes it through the loop until it feels snug. This forms a slipknot which can be tightened or loosened as needed. If you tighten the bearded dragon harness it can make it feel uncomfortable.
To finish, make sure that the beads are all facing in the same direction. Trim any excess cord and melt the end with a lighter to prevent fraying.
4. Secure the Bead Underneath
Now, take the free end of the cord and thread it through the second bead. Again, pull this bead tight against the looped end of the cord. You should now have two beads within the circle, with two lengths of cord running out from them.
Repeat this process until you have threaded all of the beads onto the cord. Once you have done this, take the free ends of the cord and tie them together in a knot. This will keep all of the beads in place on the cord.
5. Ties The Handle
Now that you have your beads strung, it’s time to start knotting them in place. For this bracelet, we’ll be using a simple square knot. To tie a square knot, take the right cord and cross it over the left cord. Make sure you don’t have a thin rope. As they can easily escape if the harness is not made out of high-quality fabric.
Now take the end of the right cord and put it over the left cord, and then under the right cord. Now pull on both cords to tighten the knot. You’ve now completed the first half of the square knot. For the second half, take the left cord and cross it over the right cord.
Now take the end of the left cord and put it over the right cord, and then under the left cord. Now pull on both cords to tighten the knot. You’ve now completed one square knot.
Add Handle to the Padded Leash (If Applicable)
Attach your preferred leash. Next, find a comfortable place to sit or stand, and attach the other end of the leash to your waistband, belt loop, or wherever it is most comfortable for you.
You may need to experiment with different positions to find what works best for you. Once you have the leash attached, hold onto the clip with one hand and allow your bearded dragon to explore the area around you.
When your bearded dragon starts to pull on the leash, simply give a gentle tug on the leash to get their attention, and then praise them when they respond. The leash needs to be adjusted with the vest. If the length matches the vest properly, it will give a secure feeling. You can also aim for the front legs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a harness, avoid using inappropriate materials like yarn or thin rope, which can fray or snap easily. Ensure all knots are secure to prevent your dragon from slipping out. Finally, always monitor your dragon’s response to the harness; signs of stress or discomfort mean you should reassess the fit or material choice.
7. Place the bearded dragon in his or her enclosure.
You’ve completed your harness, but you have no clue how to utilize it. This isn’t difficult. You’ll need to put your new harness on and adjust it to fit in order to use it.
You should be able to adjust the harness so that your bearded dragon is comfortable. Try to take the measure according to its body. A lot of people like to tie the harness to the neck for a better fit.
Don’t make it too tight; you don’t want to restrict breathing.
Place your dragon on his or her back and put the harness on like a backpack.
8. Go for a walk!
Now you’re ready to take your bearded dragon for a walk.
Start slow and let your dragon get used to the feel of the harness.
If everything goes well, you can pick up the pace and explore your neighborhood with your new best friend. Walking will make your reptile happy.
Be sure to bring along some water and food in case your dragon gets hungry or thirsty on the way.
Have fun and enjoy the outdoors with your bearded dragon! It will keep your bearded dragon secure. Hope you’ll be able to give your beardies the best life with these harnesses.
Benefits of Walking a Bearded Dragon
Taking your bearded dragon for walks can significantly boost its physical and mental health. Regular outdoor activities provide them with much-needed exercise, reducing the risk of obesity. The varied environment stimulates their senses, curbing boredom and promoting a happier, healthier pet. Always ensure the areas you explore are safe and free from chemicals or animals that could harm your dragon.
