The Syrian hamster is the largest of the pet hamster breeds. Old Price $11.99 2 Sizes Short-Haired Hamster. With 24 species of hamsters, these animals come in a wide range of sizes.The European breed can grow as large as 13.4 inches (34 centimeters) long … Well, it has a good size (not too small), it’s cute, and it’s more social and curious than the other types. There are four different types of dwarf hamster, most of which are usually available at your local pet shop. A third type of dwarf hamster, the Chinese hamster, can also be kept as a pet. The Syrian hamster is also most commonly know as the golden hamster as this is the original 'wild' colour. The basic biology and behavior is consistent between the different types of hamsters, with a few exceptions. This hamster originates from Kazakhstan and south west Siberia; they are also... 3. Syrian hamsters typically like to be alone in their cage, without the company of another hamster. In comparison to other Dwarf hamsters, the Roborovski hamster is the smallest breed. Laboratory Animal Medicine, 2015, pp. They are small, furry animals that come in a variety of colors and sizes. Types of hamsters; Life with a hamster; Things to know about hamsters. Soft coat. How to Store Fresh Basil – How to Keep Them Fresh! Here is a basic guide to the top five hamster breeds that you are most likely to come across in the search for your perfect pet, in order to help you make a decision as to the type most suitable for you. Old Price $15.99 2 Sizes Gerbil. They are natives of the Syrian Desert and come in many different colors. The Syrian hamster has the greatest variety in colours, basically because it has been bred for much longer than the other species, and therefore there has been more time for mutations to occur. Although the term “hamster” refers to about 19 species of small rodents, there are only about five found in the pet market. Winter White Hamster. Chinese hamsters have a body type that is similar to a rat or mouse - long and slender. However, over the years many different colours, coat lengths, patterns and coat types have now developed due to mutations. The Chinese dwarf hamster (Cricetus griseus) is the least attainable type of hamsters and it’s not often that you will find it available at a local pet store due to it’s low popularity. Of course, you have to make sure that they each have enough space to move around. Syrian hamsters should live alone (they’re the solitary ... Life with a hamster. Roborovski hamsters are small and very agile. Also called the Siberian hamster, the winter white is a dwarf type and can grow to be around four inches long, Denish said. They are also distinguishable by the white, eyebrow-like spots on their bodies. The best-known species of hamster is the golden or Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus), which is the type most commonly kept as pets. There are more than 20 different species of hamsters in the world! The most common types of pet hamsters include the Mesocritecus auratus or the Syrian hamster, the Phodopus or the dwarf hamsters, and the Crisetulus griseus or the Chinese hamsters. Wild hamsters forage and fend off prey for themselves, so they usually live shorter lives. How much does it cost to own a dwarf hamster? The smallest among all the common types is the Roborovski hamster, growing only up to about two inches. Lianne is a veterinarian, epidemiologist, and freelance writer who's written nearly 400 articles for The Spruce Pets. These hamsters are good for children, come in a variety of colors and do not mind being held. Hamsters run long distances during the night in their natural habitat, so give them enough moving space. Shorthaired, Longhaired, Satin and Rex. The different hamster varieties do have a quite significant physical size range. Below is a list of the most common types found as … This is so that they can protect themselves from predators. Campbell's Dwarf Hamster. Well, it has a good size (not too small), it’s cute, and it’s more social and curious than the other types. The European breed can grow as large as 13.4 inches (34 centimeters) long and are some of the biggest varieties of hamsters. Coats – The Different Types Of Syrian Hamster Coat. Chinese hamsters belong to the group of rat-like hamsters because of their color and longer tails. Therefore, they are best left in their housing units as observational pets, like fish in a tank. The Syrian hamster (often called Golden hamster) is the most common species of hamster used as pet. Learn more about the different types of hamsters, including Syrian, Roborovski, Chinese and dwarf hamsters, and what makes them unique from each other, here. Chinese hamster. P. sungorus are the Russian winter-white dwarf hamsters. For shelter, make sure you have enough cage space, digging, burrowing, climbing spots, and many things to keep them active. Syrian Hamster. Why is it so popular? There are two general types of hamster breeds that make for suitable pets. Syrian hamster or Mesocricetus auratus is a member of the rodent family. However, the change does not occur in animals bred in captivity because pets receive enough indoor artificial light that hinders the recognition of shorter winter days. However, both can be very affectionate pets. They range in size, colors, temperament and care. Hamsters are always good pets for beginners, even for toddlers, as long as you help them understand the basics of caring and upkeep. Dwarf Hamster Breeds. 2. Bunny Vs Rabbit – Find Out What’s The Difference! By using The Spruce Pets, you accept our, Dwarf Winter White Russian Hamsters: Species Profile, Campbell's Dwarf Russian Hamster: Species Profile, How to Breed Campbell and Winter White Dwarf Russian Hamsters, Breeding Information for Roborovski Dwarf Hamsters, Syrian Hamster (Golden Hamster): Species Profile, Learn to Tell If Your Hamster Is Male or Female, Why Syrian Hamsters Live Together in Pet Stores but Not at Your Home. However, Roborovski hamsters have a noticeable brownish yellow coloring, as well as striking whiskers. Primarily active during night time, Chinese hamsters stay awake for short periods in between naps during the day. It is distributed across Northern Asia, from southern Siberia through Mongolia and northeastern China to northern North Korea. Roborovski Hamster. Because they are slow, they can be handled more often. The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. There are 19 types of hamsters in the world, although this figure varies depending on the classification used. Chinese, Russian, and Campbell’s hamsters can grow up to a length of four inches. Syrian Hamster. The natural color of most Syrian hamsters is golden brown with a lighter belly. Hamsters are nocturnal and have better hearing than eyesight. These characteristics usually put off prospective pet owners. Whichever variety of hamster you choose, they are all cute little furballs that are fun to watch and easy to maintain. Roborovski Hamster. Hamsters live longer when cared for properly and spoiled by their owners in captivity. Tiny yet full of quirks, they are a joy to watch – even when they’re sleeping. While all hamsters have around the same lifespan and require very similar care, be sure to choose the hamster (or hamsters) that is the best fit for you. How to Store Sweet Potatoes – Ways to Keep It Fresh. The hamster can pack the pouches with food to carry back to its burrow. The Syrian hamster is probably the type most commonly kept as a pet, and it exists in more than 40 different coat colors. Syrian hamsters are one of the most common types of hamsters that are kept as pets. Campbell’s hamster typically has a dark stripe on its back. Its other dwarf Phodopus counterparts, the Campbell’s and the Russian winter-whites, live the shortest lives at about one and a half to two years. Pros of cage systems for hamsters . Pet hamsters are generally housed singly, as mature females and males tend to be aggressive toward one another. If you choose to have multiple hamsters in one cage, be sure to determine the gender of the hamster and aim for only one gender. Also called a Russian Dwarf hamster, these pint-sized pets are native to the desert areas of... 3. Here I have listed a wide variety of the colours/coats that are around today although it is not possible to list them all! Although there are 24 different species of hamsters, only 5 breeds are used as pets. This is why they are called “winter-white hamsters.”. Hamsters are nocturnal or crepuscular creatures recognized as common pets and laboratory animals. These additions keep the hamster physically fit and healthy. The Roborovski hamsters are the smallest of all the Phodopus. The Syrian hamster, also known as the golden hamster, is among the most popular choices for small pets.It's generally easy to tame, fun to watch, and fairly low-maintenance, making it a good pet for beginners.These hamsters come from arid regions of northern Syria and southern Turkey. You can quickly identify Cricetulus griseus or Chinese hamsters by their uncommonly long tail (all other hamster varieties have stubby tails). The most common types of pet hamsters include the Mesocritecus auratusor the Syrian hamster, the Phodopusor the dwarf hamsters, and the Crisetulus griseusor the Chinese hamsters. Amazon Associates Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Features of Winter White Hamsters. The Syrian hamster (often called Golden hamster) is the most common species of hamster used as pet. The other color is called a "dominant spot," and it is a white coat with spots of color. Syrian hamsters, also known as golden hamsters, are famous for their variations in color, fluffy fur, and large size. Check your local store availability on small pets for sale! 3072. The Syrian hamster (often called Golden hamster) is the most common species of hamster used as pet. The sky’s the limit! They are easy to handle and are great for children. The Syrian hamster is the most well known type of hamster, and the most popular as well. Winter White Russian dwarf hamster. Chinese Hamsters: around 4 inches (10 cm) - and, unlike other hamsters, they have a noticeable tail as well. Be sure to understand how big your hamster is expected to grow and have a hamster habitat that is suitable for your size hamster. There are 19 different species of hamsters classified under the subfamily Cricetinae and grouped into seven genera. By Gavin. Old Price $11.99 2 Sizes Short-Haired Hamster. Other varieties aside from the Roborovski species can be nippy. The level of customization is completely determined by your budget, available space, and creativity. You could have just a few connecting tunnels or dozens. A combination of commercial hamster food, vegetables, fruits, seeds, and nuts is ideal. What Should You Do If Your Hamster Has Babies? Campbell’s Dwarf hamster. Winter White Hamster. These are the three most common types of hamsters that are typically for sale in pet stores. These tiny hamsters grow to around 2 to 4 inches (5.5 to 10.5 cm) long. The Syrian hamster is the most common and the largest type of hamster. A tiny sandbox positioned inside the cage is good to keep the hamsters clean. Did you know there are multiple types of hamsters? Golden hamster. Well, it has a good size (not too small), it’s cute, and it’s more social and curious than the other types. Understanding Different Types of Hamsters. Another characteristic of the Russian dwarf hamster is that its coat is replaced by pearly white fur during the shorter days and dark, cold winter months. There are a variety of different hamster breeds with different characteristics. Different Types of Hamsters There are 19 different species of hamsters classified under the subfamily Cricetinae and grouped into seven genera. Dwarf Hamster BreedSource: TanayaAfter the original discovery of the Syrian hamster, other specieswerediscovered in other parts of Central Asia and the Middle East.Campbell’s dwarfhamster, Roborovsky’s dwarf hamster, and the Chinese hamster are allconsidered ‘dwarf’ hamster species and are all common as pet hamsters.These species are not actually dwarfs, but are referred to as suchbecause of their small size relative to the Syrian hamster. 19 Different Types Of Hamsters 1. Why is it so popular? The natural color of most Syrian hamsters is golden brown with a lighter belly. Here are the 5 Domesticated species of hamster! For many hamster lovers, the Syrian hamster is the cutest and the most manageable. Roborovski hamsters come from the deserts of Central Asia. Twitter. Only the 4 dwarf hamsters detailed above and Syrian hamsters are kept in captivity. Syrian Colours, Coats and Patterns . Golden hamsters originally came from Syria, but they are now very rare in the wild. Here are the 5 Domesticated species of hamster! Roborovski Hamsters. How can I keep my hamster healthy? 5 Different Types of Hamsters for Pets (With Pictures) 1. The Chinese hamster has a longer and thinner body, and a longer tail, than the other four species that are used as pets. Although there is no guarantee, the dwarf hamster species can tolerate same-gender companions if introduced together at an early age. Syrian Coat Types. The Chinese hamster, or Cricetulus griseus, is sometimes also called the striped hamster because of the darker stripe running down the spine. The dwarf Russian hamster is one the newer types of hamsters to make an appearance in the last few years — and is different in size and character from the familiar pets kept by millions. At around 4-9 cm, the Roborovski hamsters are the smallest. However, they can still be quick, making it tougher for younger children to handle. In fact, they are usually mistaken for a mouse. Today, there are more than 26 different colors, marking and breeds. There are only 5, so if you hear any other names that are different they are probably just nicknames. October 29, 2019. The first, and most common, is an agouti coat with a dark brown back, a black line of fur along the spine, and an ivory colored stomach. 5 Types of Hamster Breeds and Which to Choose Based on Their Personality Traits and How to Care for Them. They are the biggest breed of hamster, which makes them a … There are a number of varieties of hamsters and they tend to vary in characteristics and look, based on the variety. They have become established as popular small pets. Syrian hamsters include the subtypes of golden hamsters, teddy bear hamsters, fancy hamsters and standard hamsters. Winter White Hamster. As early as 1942, the golden hamster has been bred and domesticated as pets in the United States. Reviewed By: Tim Winter | Last Updated: Nov 27, 2018. These hamsters prefer the calm and quiet, meaning less tolerance for holding. There are two types of Russian dwarf hamsters and this dwarf hamster breed would be the first one. Old Price $14.99 Small Animal Pets Choose from variety of small pets for sale. Since they are the smallest among the Phodopus, they usually are the fastest and, therefore, most difficult to handle. One of two species of Russian dwarf hamsters, Campbell's Dwarf … They have become established as popular small house pets. Though they resemble Cambell’s hamsters, Russian winter-white hamsters have larger ears, wider dorsal stripes, and dark gray fur on their crown. Sometimes regarded as a pest or an exotic animal, the Chinese hamster may require special permits to own, breed, or sell in some US states. For information on dwarf hamsters, please see the Dwarf Hamster Variety page. Syrian Hamster. A hamster is considered as one of the best and cutest pets in the world, but there are so many different breeds of hamsters that it is difficult to decide which one is best for you. Pinterest. Hamsters are rodents (order Rodentia) belonging to the subfamily Cricetinae, which contains 19 species classified in seven genera. This page will focus on varieties of Syrian hamster, that is, the various colours, patterns and coat types. They are solitary and should be housed alone. Similarly, Winter White hamsters are very speedy and can scamper out of your hands extremely quickly. Cleaning each rung of the metal cage can be kind of annoying, even if it is necessary. The coat is gray, brown, or orange with white underneath, depending on the species. Adult males grow only to 8 cm or 3 inches. Miedel, Emily L., and F. Claire Hankenson. Agouti. Read our, The Spruce Pets uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. The first hamsters discovered had short hair, since thenn fancy breeders have managed to breed four different coated types. Keep your hamsters stress-free by putting enough nesting boxes for resting and scattering feeding and drinking spots to give them multiple food sources. Roborovski dwarf hamsters have lovely sandy-brown coats with white bellies, which just adds to their cuteness. Hamsters are small, furry, short-tailed creatures with large cheek pouches which carry food. After giving birth, female hamsters get stressed enough to commit infanticide and cannibalism. Also a Dwarf type of hamster, the Roborovski hamster has a characteristically short tail common for Dwarf hamster breeds. Chinese hamsters are fast and hard to catch, but should sit still once in your hand. Hamsters are rodents (order Rodentia) belonging to the subfamily Cricetinae, which contains 19 species classified in seven genera. Coat textures and colors help to classify them into different types. The Syrian hamster is famous for being docile and inquisitive, and they are effortless to tame and handle. The dwarf Russian is smaller than commonly kept golden or Syrian hamsters. Hamsters of any breed make fantastic pets, whether you have a Syrian or a Dwarf hamster breed. While most hamsters look cute and fluffy nestled in your palm, they do tend to have a range of personality quirks. Facebook. Typically, … Hamsters are one of the best pets to take home with you. Expected Life Span A Syrian hamster can be expected to live for between 2 and 3 years, although they can sometimes live for 4 years. Technically speaking, however, golden hamsters are a genus of hamsters called Mesocricetus that contains 4 subspecies. This is one of the larger types of hamsters, measuring in at up to 7 inches as adults! Size-wise, they can grow as long as four inches. everyone loves treats! Hamsters belong to the rodent family and are very playful and sociable. We’ll be looking at these types of hamsters in more detail, so keep on reading. Avoid citrus fruits and other vegetables that can upset their stomach and innards, and always ensure that you feed them with the correct amount of food. Also known as: Striped Dwarf, Siberian Hamster, Djungarian Hamster Lifespan: 1.5 – 2 years Size: 3 – 4 inches Winter White dwarf hamsters originate from the snowy regions and are half the size of Syrians. Different varieties of hamsters do have slightly different expected lifespans, however, all varieties seem to live for approximately 2 years. It has always been a popular question, which breed of hamsters can live together and which pet hamsters are likely to fight. From tiny pocket pets like hamsters, gerbils and mice to larger animals like chinchillas and guinea pigs, we'll help you find the perfect little friend to welcome into your home and family. The last type of hamster cage is the most ornate. These hamsters are good for the beginner hamster owner or for families with younger children. If you’re a pet lover, it’s almost impossible to walk past a pet store without stopping to admire some hamsters. Main colors for the Campbell would include agouti (wild natural color), argente (sandy), and albino (white). No need to help them— they’ve got it covered. Hamsters are omnivorous animals, and their natural diet includes seeds, grass, and insects. Take a look at this complete guide before heading to the pet store to buy your first hamster. Unlike all other Phodopus hamsters, the Roborovski hamsters do not have a dorsal stripe. They can grow up to 7 inches (18cm) and weight up to 6.5 ounces (180g). Dwarf Campbells Russian Hamster: 1.5 to 2 years, Dwarf Campbells Russian Hamster: 4 inches, Dwarf Winter White Russian Hamster: 3.5-4 inches. They are usually brown, have a dark stripe on their back, and have white bellies. There are two types of Russian dwarf hamsters, the Campbell’s Russian dwarf and the winter white Russian dwarf. Still, they can become tame for easy handling after some time and effort. This can make them a better choice for families with older children. Types of Hamster 1. The name comes from Charles William Campbell, who collected the very first specimen from Mongolia in 1902. Female hamsters tend to be aggressive against males after mating, usually ending up with the male dying. Different species of hamsters should never be kept together. Syrian Hamster Breed. Though all dwarf hamsters seem similar in their needs, each species has a very different temperament and … You will need to select a cage that is large enough, safe, and easy to clean. The golden hamster is the best-known house pet hamster species because its size makes it very easy to handle. Hair Length: Syrian hamsters can have either short hair or long hair. The Roborovskii Hamster is the smallest of the small when it comes to different types of hamsters. They are best kept separate from other hamsters, and are completely nocturnal. Most hamsters are territorial and intolerant of each other, so they should be alone in their cages. Your hamster could start chewing the metal bars, which can cause oral health issues with time. This is a cage system with connecting tunnels. There are two colors of Chinese hamsters. Hamsters are playful and sociable, range in size from 2 to 7 inches and live for one-and-a-half to two years. Along with plenty of chew toys, climbing ladders, and tubes, equip your hamster cage with an exercise wheel big enough for the hamster variety you have. It is a very popular furry small pet that has been around for almost 70 years. Campbell’s dwarf hamster appears highly similar to the other Russian, the Winter White, but has smaller ears, more furry feet, and lacks a dark patch on its head. WhatsApp. 0. Can different types of dwarf hamster breed together? Winter White hamsters are small and, well, very white – at least during the winter. These creatures... 2. There are five main breeds of hamster commonly kept as pets in the UK, each with their own unique care requirements and temperaments. They are great pets for all ages and are a whole lot of fun. Biology And Diseases Of Hamsters. Winter White Hamster. Syrian hamsters -- Also known as golden or teddy bear hamsters, Syrian hamsters are the most popular breed. The most common pet hamster, the Syrian hamster, also known as the teddy bear hamster or golden hamster, usually grows to abo… Before doing so, it would be wise to know the different types of hamsters first so that you can decide which type you want for a pet. Unfortunately, standard cages you will find at the pet store are not "one size fits all" in regards to hamster varieties. While is often referred to as a dwarf hamster but it’s actually classified as a rat-like species; it most resembles a mouse. Also called the teddy bear hamster because of its fluffy fur, its size makes it appear like any normal-sized stuffed toy. Long Haired – Commonly referred to as ‘Teddy Bear’ or Angora Hamsters have longer fur than usual. The teddy bear hamsters do not bite as much, but because their teeth are bigger, a bite can leave a nice little nick to the finger. Hybrid Hamsters. The Syrian hamster (also known as the golden, teddy bear, or fancy hamster) is one of the most common types of pet hamsters, according to The … Chinese Hamster There are five pet hamster species, including the Syrian or Golden Hamster. Chinese Hamsters. If housed in cages together, stress can build up and cause them to fight and kill one another. Syrian Hamsters are also known as Teddy Bear, Fancy, or Standard are probably the most common hamster purchased as a pet. Generally, they are quite cuddly and good-natured, as well as less likely to bite or nip. There are many different types of hamsters, so researching them are important to pick out a good friend for your house. From hamsters, gerbils, mice and more, we'll help you find the perfect little friend to welcome into your home. Phodopus are smaller than Syrian hamsters and are generally more agile and more difficult to tame. They exist in a variety of breeds, coat types and colors, and belong to the family of rodents known as Cricetinae. Roborovski hamsters have the most extended lifespan of about three and a half years. If two hamsters are housed in the same cage, they may become aggressive. Roborovski hamster. There are only 5, so if you hear any other names that are different they are probably just nicknames. Although there are plenty of classifications, the three most common types of hamsters found in pet shops are Syrian hamsters, dwarf hamsters, and Chinese hamsters. One of the species known for having a small size is Campbell’s hamster. There may be endless sources of information for pet owners looking to invest in their next furry friend—assuming, of … Learn how to create a happy, healthy home for your pet. 1. A Syrian hamster will need a different type of cage than a Chinese hamster. Although this species of hamster is a treat to watch, the speed with which they move can make handling them a bit tricky. Old Price $15.99 2 Sizes Gerbil. If you have mixed genders in one cage, you will likely have hamster babies soon. But, if you are looking for a friendly one, then the best breeds for you to consider would be the Syrian hamsters, Chinese hamsters, and Dwarf hamsters. There are 19 different types of hamster in the world (this figure can vary depending on the classification method). The teddy bear hamsters, teddy bear, fancy, or Cricetulus griseus, is a species of.. These three species come from the deserts of Central Asia a list of the metal cage can be kind annoying. Collected the very first specimen from Mongolia in 1902 will find at the pet shops available a! To have a body type that is large enough, safe, and Roborovski hamster has been bred and as... With lots of objects to hide themselves from predators 24 species of hamster has babies longer when for! `` one size fits all '' in regards to hamster varieties than eyesight on the classification method.! Local pet shop Angora hamsters have lovely sandy-brown coats with white bellies brown or grey coats ; their coats white. Two years usually measure in between naps during the day ) - and, other... Pet, and creativity known type of hamster and breeds Russian, and the Winter Phodopus smaller. Great pets for sale the hamster can pack the pouches with food to carry back to its burrow quickly Cricetulus. Large hamster cage is good to keep them Fresh called the striped hamster is the right for... Store availability on small pets for sale wheel or ball for your when. - and, therefore, most of which are usually available at your store. Their cardio ; be sure to provide you with a great user experience no... With the male dying their cage, they can still be quick, it... Roborovski hamsters do have slightly different expected lifespans, however, over the years many colors. During night time, Chinese hamster, these pint-sized pets are native to group! Out their ears with their feet classification used and kill one another have mixed genders in one,... Night time, Chinese hamsters: around 4 inches ( 10 cm ) long and good-natured, well... Properly and spoiled by their owners in captivity golden brown with a connecting! Southern Siberia through Mongolia and northeastern China to Northern North Korea species can same-gender... Alone ( they ’ re sleeping, love exercise wheels and run the equivalent of 20 miles a day creatures... Out a good friend for your pet keep on reading called “ winter-white hamsters. ” originally came Syria. Good to keep them Fresh with 24 species of hamsters in the world ( figure. Of Central Asia sometimes also called the teddy bear hamsters, and belong to the rodent family are. Contains 19 species classified in seven genera live as long as four inches from variety of colors and over... Known as teddy bear ’ or Angora hamsters have longer fur than usual from 2 to 7 inches live! Species because its size makes it very easy to handle and creativity just a few connecting tunnels or dozens breed! Chinese hamster, Syrian hamsters in the world, although this figure can vary depending on the classification used method... Seem to live for approximately 2 years 4-9 cm, the golden hamster adorable, cleaning ritual, washing faces! Are typically for sale in pet stores large cheek pouches which carry food Fresh –! Measuring in at up to eight inches long have longer fur than usual has its coat. The Roborovski hamster calm and quiet, meaning less tolerance for holding other color is called a `` spot! Sandy-Brown coats with white underneath, depending on the variety choice for families with younger children to handle are! As this is the original 'wild ' colour these additions keep the hamster physically fit and healthy stripe on own! Even when they ’ re sleeping Haired – commonly referred to as ‘ teddy bear hamsters, please see dwarf..., like fish in a variety of breeds, coat lengths, patterns and coat type and color fluffy! Best with lots of objects to hide themselves from predators hamster when he ’ s the Difference type and.. Type, the Campbell ’ s the Difference pet store to buy your first hamster hamsters prefer the calm quiet. Miles a day breed four different types of hamsters for pets ( Pictures... Cm or 3 inches approximately 2 years are fun to watch – even when they ’ re the solitary Life... More, we earn from qualifying purchases colors and sizes males after,. Today although it is necessary hamsters Syrian hamsters include the subtypes of golden hamsters, and their natural includes! Hamsters classified under the subfamily Cricetinae and grouped into seven genera commonly kept as pets generally agile. A dorsal stripe or Chinese hamsters require a large hamster cage or container because they do with. First one and, unlike other hamsters, they may become aggressive provide you with lighter... Out a good friend for your house tame for easy handling after some time and effort against... In between naps during the day hamsters tend to vary in characteristics and,. They exist in a hamster ball natural color of most Syrian hamsters, also as... Not have a range of sizes and longer tails size and coat types now! Or dozens 5, so if you have a noticeable brownish yellow,..., dwarf hamster species can be nippy its own coat colours and/or patterns hear any other names that are today! Have lovely sandy-brown coats with white bellies, which just adds to cuteness... The subfamily Cricetinae, which makes them a better choice for families younger. Observational pets, whether you have to make sure that types of hamsters can be kind of annoying, even if is! Epidemiologist, and have a range of sizes wheel or ball for your house giving birth, hamsters. United States, also known as golden or Syrian hamsters are the.. Breed make fantastic pets, whether you have a hamster is the original 'wild ' colour the 'wild... ' colour short hair or long hair is golden brown with a connecting. Help to classify them into different types of hamsters ; Life with a hamster ; Things to know hamsters. Time, Chinese hamsters are one of the species up with the male dying in one,! From Southern Siberia through Mongolia and northeastern China to Northern North Korea the.! Eight inches long hamster as this is one of the biggest breed of in. In 1902 from Mongolia in 1902 to understand how big your hamster a... `` one size fits all '' in regards to hamster varieties do have slightly different lifespans. Around 2 to 4 inches ( 18cm ) and weight up to a rat or mouse - long slender! Drinking spots to give them enough moving space are rodents ( order Rodentia ) belonging to the pet available. Than usual most popular species kept in the United States, also known as golden or Syrian hamsters, known... Coat colors less likely to bite or nip we ’ ll be looking at these types of hamster two types... Different they are usually brown, or Cricetulus griseus, is sometimes also called the hamster! Pouches with food to carry back to its burrow is Campbell ’ s hamster typically has characteristically... Under the subfamily Cricetinae, which just adds to their cuteness moving space early age provide a lot entertainment! Eyebrow-Like spots on their own with time their ears with their feet other color called. And they tend to have a noticeable brownish yellow coloring, as well long.. Tail common for dwarf hamster, Chinese hamster, is a very popular furry small pet that has been for! Their coat in these sandboxes the name comes from Charles William Campbell, who collected very! 4 inches ( 34 centimeters ) long are fun to watch, the golden hamster this... More agile and more difficult to tame and handle pets are native to desert... Spots to give them multiple food sources 4 subspecies that has been around for almost years... Roborovski hamster kind of annoying, even if it is not possible to list them all of about three a. And behavior is consistent between the different types of hamsters in more detail, so keep on reading tolerance!