Leopard gecko or bearded dragon: which should you choose first?
For a first step into reptile keeping, the leopard gecko is the simplest choice: a full setup runs around 250 to 400 €, no UVB is strictly required under classic husbandry protocols, and daily upkeep is minimal. The bearded dragon is more interactive and diurnal, but it needs a large terrarium, powerful UVB lighting and roughly twice the budget. Both species can generally be kept by private owners in France under current regulations: check the applicable rules before you buy.
How much space and money does each species need?
An adult leopard gecko lives comfortably in a 90 × 45 × 45 cm terrarium, which means a complete setup of 250 to 400 €. An adult bearded dragon demands at least 120 × 60 × 60 cm, a UVB fixture and a basking spot at 40 °C: expect 400 to 700 € upfront, then a higher monthly cost in insects and electricity. You will find our setup guidelines in the reptile habitat section.
Which is easier to live with day to day?
The leopard gecko is crepuscular: it comes alive in the evening, which suits people who work all day. As an adult it eats three to four times a week and copes well with short absences. The bearded dragon, being diurnal, needs a daily bowl of greens, insects several times a week and more cleaning: it produces larger, smellier droppings.
What temperament and handling should you expect?
The bearded dragon has a reputation for being placid and tolerates handling well once adult, which families love. The leopard gecko is more delicate: never grab it by the tail, which it can drop under stress. In both cases, handling should stay brief and respect the animal's rhythm.
How do you decide based on your situation?
- Small budget, little space: leopard gecko;
- You want a diurnal, interactive animal: bearded dragon;
- Frequent absences: leopard gecko, more self-sufficient;
- Children at home: adult bearded dragon, more tolerant of handling;
- Squeamish about live insects: neither — both species eat them.
Before making up your mind, browse the reptile hub to compare the needs of the most common species.
Frequently asked questions
How long does each species live?
A leopard gecko lives 15 to 20 years, a bearded dragon 8 to 12. Either way it is a long commitment: plan ahead for house moves and holidays.
Can you start with a juvenile?
Yes, but a young animal eats more often and is more skittish. A six-month-old subadult often makes a better first reptile.
Do you need a permit to keep these species?
For one or two individuals of domestic or common species like these, ownership generally remains unrestricted in France, but thresholds and lists evolve: check official sources before buying.
This guide is part of Planète Pets’s Reptiles universe. Our advice is general in nature: for any health concern, your veterinarian remains the only reference.