Chinese Water Dragon Diet & Feeding Schedule

Chinese water dragons are largely insectivorous as juveniles, shifting toward a more omnivorous mix of insects, occasional pinkies and some plant matter as they mature.

The Best Feeders

Mealworms, superworms and Dubia roaches all work well here — variety helps, since water dragons can be prone to boredom-driven pickiness with a single feeder type over time.

Feeding by Age

  • Juveniles (0–1 year): Insects daily, appropriately sized to the dragon's head width.
  • Adults: Insects every 1–2 days, with vegetables and occasional fruit offered alongside.

Calcium & Gut-Loading

Dust with calcium at most feedings, calcium with D3 weekly if not on UVB. Our gut-loading guide covers what we feed our own colonies before shipping.

Tips & Cautions

Water dragons are prone to nose rub and stress in cramped or overly dry enclosures — a well-fed, well-hydrated dragon is calmer at feeding time and less likely to bolt or ignore food.