The Bearded Dragon

Native Aussies
Photo from National Geographic
Photo from ABC
Photo from Galleryhip
Bearded Dragons live on patches of sand and clay in rocky Australian semi-desserts. They have great personalities are very fun to watch. Head-bobbing, waiving and beard puffing are the most commonly seen traits in a bearded dragon and they amuse their owners greatly. They are great pets for children if raised correctly (the kids and the dragons) as dragons are living creatures and not toys and should be supervised at all times when interacting with small children. Dragons can be loving, they often seek affection and can even be trained to some degree. They are highly recommended as a "first" for people wanting to own a reptile. Check out the video below of dragons and many other lizards in their natural habitat in Australia.
Dragon Care
A dragon is a commitment like any other pet, they required specific care and attention, and sometimes a trip to a reptile specialist veterinarian. Many people purchase a bearded dragon thinking it will be an easy pet to care for and do no research on their care. Dragons like interaction, they want to be held and petted and the more time you spend with them the more time they will want to spend with you. Hold them at least 15 minuets a day, clean their cage daily and offer them a variety of veggies, fruits and feeder bugs. Make sure their enclosure is large enough, comfortable and has lots of different decorations for them to explore. Dragons can live up to 15 years old in captivity if properly cared for, so invest the time in researching the best way to care for your dragon.
A Popular Lizard
Not only do bearded dragons make amazing pets because of their personality, but in the reptile industry they are growing in popularity every year because of the variety in the species. Bearded Dragons are available in many morphs and colors, allowing people to choose a "breed" like they would a dog. There is a culture that has been created where there are "collector quality" dragons and it has caused a surge in at home breeding across the USA and reptile expos grow in attendance every year with new breeders. Be careful when you are purchasing a bearded dragon, always do it from a knowledgeable breeder who provides an extensive care sheet and knows the lineage of your dragon.Make sure the breeder can show/tell you the morphs of it's Sire and Dame. Make sure the dragon you choose is alert, active and has no discharge around the eyes or nose. Make sure to do your research ahead of time so you make the right decisions when faced with a choice on morphs, enclosures (especially substrate and lighting) and food.