What preparations does Beowulf make for his fight with the dragon? How do they differ from his preparations for battles with Grendel and Grendel's mother?

Beowulf has a special shield made.It is a special iron shield, tall and able to withstand dragon flames! He also grabs the ancient sword, Naegling. He then gathers eleven warriors to accompany him to the dragon's lair.

Beowulf carried no armour to fight Grendel and brought nobody to witness the fight. Beowulf had no sword or shield going into the battle with Grendel's mother.