The Australian Water Dragon is definitely agile in water as well as land. This large lizard is a shy and docile pet for those who take the time to treat him properly.

With its ferocious name and fairly large body, the Australian Water Dragon is an impressive lizard. These Water Dragons can be tamed and kept as pets in large enclosures; a pair will do well in a terrarium that is two feet high, three feet wide, and four feet long. Australian Water Dragons are generally not nervous like some other lizards. It is rare that Water Dragons bite; more often, they will flee if they feel threatened. It is important to handle your Australian Water Dragon with caution and patience until he is used to you. Captive born Water Dragons will be more even-tempered and docile than wild-caught Water Dragons. With the right treatment and care, you will have an impressive-looking pet that makes a sweet companion.

Male Australian Water Dragons grow to an average two and a half feet, though some larger specimens have been seen. Females are generally smaller staying around 20 inches in length. In addition to size differences males are generally more colorful than females as they have beautiful read chests. The heads of the Australian Water Dragon are large and white. They also have broad, flat tails, which aid them in swimming.

Australian Water Dragons are native to the wooded or bushy areas of Australia, which are close to watercourses, which they use as an escape route should they feel threatened. They are used to warm climates and in captivity it is important they are kept warm with a basking spot and a cooler area to allow them to thermoregulate of their own accord.

These beautiful Australian Water Dragons can be tamed and kept as pets in large enclosures. If you live in a suitable climate they do very well kept outside. Not only will they have natural sun, if you are breeding them they will take their cues naturally. If you have to keep them in an indoor enclosure, a pair will do well in a terrarium that is two feet high, three feet wide, and four feet long. Australian Water Dragons need a water bath, as they enjoy bathing and swimming, in addition to a dry, basking spot kept about 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Hiding places should be provided (such as hide boxes), which are cooler than the rest of the cage, which should be kept at 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime. Full-spectrum UV lighting is essential. If they are kept outdoors this is not an issue as they will get the proper lighting naturally, but if kept indoors it is essential that the proper UVB lights be obtained. Water Dragons will stop eating if the day is too short or if they are too cold or stressed. The Australian Water Dragon is not picky, they will eat most anything from insects like crickets, mealworms, and earthworms, to green leafy vegetables, pinkie mice, and sweet, soft fruits. A balanced nutritional diet is the key for good health. Occasional dusting with multivitamins and frequent dusting with calcium powder is recommended. Be sure to give sturdy plants and branches to your Water Dragons so that they may exercise and climb, or hide if they should feel stressed or nervous.

Breeding Australian Water Dragons begins with courtship behavior from the male. The male will bob his head, puff out his red chest, and circle the female a while. She will give in and breeding will then commence. It is important to get the eggs as soon as possible. Outdoor incubation is risky with bugs and others constantly after them.