Bearded Dragon acting out

Question
I have had a Bearded Dragon for about 5 months now. I got him as a baby when he was about 5 inches long. Now he is about 12. At first he was fidgety but seemed to enjoy being handled and exploring. Since then I left for school and couldn't take him with mo on a count of the size of his tank. He still gets taken really good care of but isn't handled. Now 4 months later he won't let me get to close. He backs up puffs out his beard and opens his mouth. Everywhere     I go I hear story's of how much they enjoy being handled and how friendly they are and mine is just not like that. My question is how can I calm him down and be able to handle him.

Answer
Hello Phil,

So you would say he is 5 months, maybe older then, probably closer to 6 months.  At that age, though, hormonal levels start to increase & they can start to become a little more aggressive.  When you do approach him, he is trying to appear larger & scare you.  Don't back down.  Try getting some greens & stuff some into his mouth next time he does that.  Chances are, he wont do that again.  
One thing, with any animal, they need regular handling or they may become deprived & a bit more wild perhaps.  I urge you to begin a regular handling of him every day for at least 20-30 minutes.  They thrive on regular attention.  Before long, he will love being handled.
At night, right before bedtime, when he is sleepy, pick him up & wrap him up in a nice soft fleece blanket & set him on your chest.  He will fall asleep on you.  That is a fun way to bond with him, too.
Let me know how things go!

Tracie