scaredy dragon

Question
i have had my bearded dragon for about 3 months. he is about 7 months old. i keep his tank clean, i try to handle him at least once a day, i feed him veggies in the morning and crickets a couple times a day. About a week ago i noticed he was not being as active and and is very jumpy. he refuses to let me hold him and tries to bite me when i attempt to pick him him. the pet store told me to move him to my room so he would only be around me and i would be the only one handling him and feeding him (i have roommates) he has been away from everyone for about a week and i have been trying to handle him a couple times a day but the problem seems to be getting worse and im not sure what to do. the only thing new is that  he seems to be laying around more and watching tv. what should i do? i really want him to be friendly again. but i don't want to piss him off by scaring him all the time.

Answer
Hi Amber,
 What you have is a boy who is hitting puberty.  Now he's going through a period of testing you.  Pick him up a few times a day and do not put him down till he is quiet.  Get a Four Paws reptile halter leash and keep him with you whenever you can for at least an hour.  Let hm watch TV in your lap or on your shoulder.  This way, he learns that hanging with you opens up his world.  He may redirect his hormonal bravado by bobbing at the furniture.  But never put him back in his tank when he's fighting you, only when he behaves and is calm. A good time may be the hour before lights out when he's getting sleepy.