Types of Dwarf Hamsters

Dwarf hamsters are an interesting alternative to the more familiar and larger Syrian or golden hamsters available in pet stores. Small and usually friendly, these little hamsters are more active than their larger relatives.

  1. Campbell's Russian Dwarf Hamster

    • The most common type of dwarf hamster, the Campbell's is tan with prominent ears. It is sometimes called the Siberian hamster, although that is a misnomer--the Siberian is a different subspecies and not considered a dwarf hamster. The Campbell's reaches an adult length of 8 cm to 10 cm.

    Winter White Russian Dwarf

    • In the wild, these gray hamsters turn white in the winter. Unlike the Campbell's, they have three dark stripes--one on the backbone and one on each side--that are visible even when their winter coat comes in. They are also 8 cm to 10 cm long as adults.

    Roborovski Dwarf Hamster

    • The "Robs" are the smallest of the dwarf hamsters, reaching only 4 cm or 5 cm when fully grown. They are quick moving and even smaller than their fur might make them appear. Their fur is a mix of brown and black, but their faces and bellies are white.

    Chinese Dwarf Hamster

    • These are not true dwarf hamsters, but are considered "mouse-like" hamsters because of their long tails. They are 10 cm to 12 cm long at maturity. They are usually brown-gray in color, but may be white or a pattern called "dominant spot," with white stretching up from the belly to the sides and over the neck.

    Tips

    • Unlike their larger relatives the Syrian hamsters, dwarf hamsters can live peacefully together as long as you introduce them early.

    Bedding Warning

    • Cedar shavings can cause breathing problems in dwarf hamsters, so use pine, aspen or bedding made from recycled newspapers.