You may be fascinated by the fact that there are more than 20 unique hamster species you can find across the world. That’s quite overwhelming when you want to pick your next pet. In all fairness, only 5 of these breeds make good pets. So, before bringing one or two home, take the time to learn of their behaviors and traits to create a healthy and happy environment. Let’s delve into which of the 5 hamster breeds is best and how to care for them.
1. Syrian Hamsters Are the Largest Hamster Breed
The Syrian hamster is described as a heavyweight because, at five ounces, it’s almost five times bigger than other breeds! These popular pet rodents are known as golden hamsters and are recommended for beginners because their large size makes them easier to handle. Young children enjoy this breed because they don’t slip out of their hands as quickly as some dwarf varieties. The golden hamster can live up to three years.
On the downside, Syrian hamsters can be quite territorial. If you decide to adopt this hamster species, only house one to avoid dominance and biting. You won’t have to worry about them feeling lonely because this breed is naturally solitary. As long as you take the time to interact with them and provide a spacious enclosure with enriching accessories, they’ll be happy.
2. Dwarf Roborovski Hamsters Are Nocturnal
The dwarf Roborovski hamster is as cute as they come! Reaching only three inches long, these little hamsters are nocturnal, which means they’re active at night. Roborovski hamsters are quiet and tend to be shy. Despite their small size, they’re quite energetic and need additions to their cages, such as wheels and toys, to stay busy.
Commonly known as Robo hamsters, they require little maintenance and are economical to keep. Unfortunately, these tiny hamsters are tough to tame because of their skittishness. If you purchase a Roborovski hamster that hasn’t been properly socialized, they become aggressive and fearful of handling. Search for reputable breeders who take the time to raise social and healthy pets.
3. Winter White Dwarf Hamsters Are Easily Tameable
The winter white dwarf, or Russian hamster, is a beloved companion because they’re one of the friendlier hamster breeds. Their willingness to be handled makes them easy to tame. Reaching three-and-a-half inches, these hamsters turn a beautiful white in winter to camouflage in the snow. At other times of the year, they have gray and brown fur.
If you’re thinking of adopting a few hamsters, Russian hamsters tolerate their own kind very well. Provide them with enough space to move around, eat, and play, and they’ll entertain you for hours. Both new and more experienced keepers enjoy the white dwarf hamster that only reaches a weight of 1.6 ounces. Sadly, Russian hamsters have among the shortest lifespans of one to two years. In the wild, these little rodents seldom live past a year of age.
4. Chinese Hamsters Have Long Tails
We know that hamsters don’t generally have tails, but this isn’t the case for the Chinese hamster! This striped rodent has a long tail contributing to its peculiar appearance. Described as low maintenance and mild-natured, you can easily train a Chinese hamster to perform basic tricks and become a loving pet. They don’t mind being handled, but they are pretty energetic, and require a spacious cage with room to run, jump, and play.
Be sure to find well-socialized Chinese hamsters to make good pets, or else you’ll be dealing with a skittish hamster that is difficult to tame. They only reach three years and won’t grow larger than five inches. Be sure to keep this hamster breed alone to prevent fighting.
5. Campbell’s Dwarf Russian Hamsters Are Tiny Rodents
The Campbell’s Russian hamster is a tiny breed with a length of between two and four inches. What makes them such a great choice of pet hamster is their need for affection. These furballs enjoy gentle handling and bond quickly with their keepers when provided love, care, and attention.
Despite their wonderful nature, their small size makes them incredible escape artists. Combined with speed, these hamsters will get away within seconds if not handled in a secure area. They can be kept with their own species, but don’t house them with larger hamsters, or they may get bullied. Campbell’s hamsters weigh two ounces and are easily identified by their gray to brown fur, white underbellies, and striped backs.
The Best Hamster Breed: Our Conclusion
Every type of hamster has its own traits and quirks that are suited to different lifestyles and experience levels. We couldn’t pick a single breed that trumps all of the others, but for first-time keepers, the Syrian hamster is a good choice. Their large size makes them easy to handle, and they have a mild temperament for taming. For more experienced keepers looking for a tiny companion, the winter white dwarf hamster is a great choice. They are beautiful and intelligent, and while they need time to bond, they make interesting pets.
Of the five hamster breeds, determining which is best is a personal choice. Consider their maintenance, activity levels, and whether they’re easy to handle based on what you are looking for in a pet hamster.
