Are you considering getting a hamster? There’s certainly a lot to love about these diminutive rodents, from their generally hygienic natures to their friendly personalities. However, deciding which type of hamster is best for your home can be challenging. We’ll discuss five breeds of hamsters you might consider keeping as a pet. After looking at each breed’s size, life span, and temperament, you can decide which is best for your home.
The 5 Popular Hamster Breeds for Pet Owners
1. Syrian Hamster
- Size: 6-7 inches
- Lifespan: 2-4 years
- Temperament: Friendly towards humans but territorial toward other hamsters
As the most common of all types of pet hamsters, Syrians are also the largest and longest-lived. Known as the “golden hamster” or “teddy bear hamster,” they are renowned for their friendly demeanors and the ease with which they can be trained.
If you’re considering bringing multiple hamsters into the family, you’ll usually need to give each Syrian its own space. While friendly to humans, the Syrian can get very territorial when sharing space with another hamster.
2. Roborovski Hamster
- Size: Around 2 inches
- Lifespan: 3-4 years
- Temperament: Energetic but shy
Also called Russian Dwarf hamsters, these pint-sized pets are native to the desert areas of northern China and Mongolia. The “Robo” gets its name from one Lieutenant Vsevolod Roborovski, who popularized the breed in 1894.
This hamster’s diminutive stature makes it a popular option among people with limited space for pets. Though they are initially shy and nervous, their naturally energetic natures will eventually encourage them to open up and play with their owners.
3. Campbell’s Hamster
- Size: 3.5-4.5 inches
- Lifespan: 1-2 years
- Temperament: Nervous with a tendency towards aggression
Another of the Russian Dwarf hamsters, the Campell’s hamster, was named after biologist Charles William Campbell, who collected the first specimen in 1902. Their shorter life span is mostly a result of their tendency toward developing diabetes.
They are native to northern Russia, China, and Central Asia. Campell’s hamsters aren’t as popular as pets because they are easily startled and tend to bite when scared.
4. Winter White Hamster
- Size: 3-4 inches
- Lifespan: 1-2 years
- Temperament: Nervous but gentle and affectionate
As the last of three breeds of Russian Dwarf hamsters, these snow-white rodents are native to Southwest Siberia and Eastern Kazakhstan. With a sweet and mellow disposition, Winter white hamsters crave socialization but are somewhat timid when placed in a new environment. Given enough time, they make affectionate pets.
5. Chinese Hamster
- Size: Around 4 inches, plus a long tail
- Lifespan: 2-3 years
- Temperament: Friendly and easily bored
The Chinese hamster is a different genus from the other dwarves. The most notable visual difference is that the Chinese has a much longer tail than any other breed of hamster. It’s friendly and very unlikely to nip, but it needs lots of activities and stimulation.
Native to Mongolia and Northern China, the Chinese hamster tends to be very sociable and sweet with its owners. However, it needs much more stimulation and activity than other hamsters, which is often why it is a less popular pet.
Related Reads
- Hamster Essential Supplies List: 11 Things to Get for Your New Pet
- Which Hamster Breed Is the Friendliest?
Final Thoughts
Did you know that all these different hamster breeds were available to keep as pets? While individual hamsters certainly have unique personalities, choosing a breed whose temperament fits your lifestyle is a great first step when considering adopting a hamster. We hope that you find the perfect hamster type for your home!
For more on Hamsters check out these posts:
- Best Dwarf Hamster Foods
- How Much Does It Cost to Own a Hamster?
- Best Hamster Treats
- Best Chew Toys for Hamsters
- 12 Things You Can Do to Find A Lost Hamster
Featured Image Credit: Pxfuel
