Hamster Breed Comparison Guide

While their territorial behavior is less intense than Golden hamsters, solitary housing is still recommended. Same-sex pair housing is sometimes possible, but fights can break out unexpectedly, making this option best for experienced keepers.

Roborovski Hamster Roborovski hamsters are the least tamable and difficult to handle. They are extremely shy and quick-moving, fleeing when you try to hold them. They're best enjoyed as display pets, making them unsuitable for those who value hands-on interaction.

However, there's real joy in observing their agile movements and active behavior. They're the only breed that can be group-housed; keeping 2–3 together reveals fascinating social interactions.

Housing Environment and Cage Size Selection

Golden Hamster Due to their large size, Golden hamsters need a cage measuring at least 60 cm wide by 45 cm deep. A height of 30 cm is sufficient, but choose a wheel at least 20 cm in diameter—a wheel that's too small can injure their spine.

Spread bedding material (wood chips or paper bedding) at least 5 cm deep, and include a nesting box and hideaway. Select a large toilet that fits their body size, and provide a sand bath area as well.

Dwarf (Jungar) Hamster A cage measuring at least 45 cm wide by 30 cm deep is appropriate. Choose a wheel 15–17 cm in diameter. While multi-level cages are an option for their small size, risk of falls increases if levels are too high, so ensure sturdy stairs and ramps are properly placed.

Use 3–4 cm of bedding material, and provide a small nesting box and toilet. Select a small water bottle designed for small animals, adjusting the water spout height to fit their size.

Roborovski Hamster Although they're the smallest breed, their high activity level means a cage at least 45 cm wide by 30 cm deep is ideal. While 12–14 cm wheels work, a 15 cm wheel is safer.

They're escape artists, so pay careful attention to gaps and door closures. Plastic enclosures or glass tanks with no gaps are safer than wire cages. If housing multiple hamsters, provide additional space.

Diet and Feeding Quantities by Breed

Golden Hamster Daily feeding amounts are about 10–15 g. Use pellet-based food as the staple, supplement with fresh vegetables (spinach, carrots, broccoli, etc.) 2–3 times weekly, and offer sunflower seeds as treats (1–2 seeds).

Because they're prone to obesity, limit high-calorie nuts. Monitor weight daily and maintain ideal body condition. Water intake should be around 20–30 ml per day.

Dwarf (Jungar) Hamster Daily feeding is about 5–8 g. Use dwarf hamster pellets as the main diet, and offer vegetables in small amounts (about 5 mm cubes) twice weekly. Dwarf hamsters are prone to diabetes, so avoid fruits and sweet vegetables (sweet potato, pumpkin) as much as possible.

Limit sunflower seeds to 1 per day. Water intake averages 10–15 ml per day, but varies by individual—check the bottle level daily.

Roborovski Hamster Daily feeding is the smallest at about 3–5 g. Use dwarf hamster pellets as the main diet and offer vegetables sparingly. Since they originate from desert habitats, high-moisture foods easily cause diarrhea.

Treats are optional 1–2 times weekly (half a sunflower seed is plenty). Water intake is 5–10 ml per day—change it fresh daily. If housing multiple hamsters, place food in multiple locations to ensure weaker individuals don't go hungry during feeding competition.

Health Management and Disease Prevention

Common Precautions All breeds are susceptible to overgrown teeth, tumors, skin disease, and respiratory illness. Check weight and do a full body examination (coat condition, eyes, teeth, anal area) once weekly. If you notice any abnormalities, see a veterinarian specializing in exotic animals.

Golden Hamster-Specific Risks Watch for obesity and heart disease. Lack of exercise and overeating are common causes, so monitor wheel usage and confirm they exercise adequately at night. Tumor incidence increases as they age (2+ years).

Dwarf (Jungar) Hamster-Specific Risks They have a higher diabetes incidence than other breeds, so watch for increased urination, excessive drinking, and weight loss. Cataracts are also relatively common. Some bloodlines carry genetic risk for these diseases, so purchasing from a reputable breeder is important.

Roborovski Hamster-Specific Risks They stress easily and diarrhea commonly results from environmental changes. Because of their small size, illness progresses rapidly—by the time symptoms are obvious, the condition may be severe. With group housing, watch for injuries from fighting and bullying of weaker individuals.

Choosing the Right Breed for You

Golden Hamster Is Right For You If: - You're a first-time hamster owner - You want hands-on interaction with your hamster - You plan to care for it with children - You have space for a larger cage

Dwarf (Jungar) Hamster Is Right For You If: - You want a more compact setup - You'd enjoy some handling along with observation - You like watching active behaviors - You have some hamster-keeping experience

Roborovski Hamster Is Right For You If: - Your focus is observation rather than handling - You want to observe group social behaviors - You have prior hamster-keeping experience - You have quick reflexes for escape prevention

Each breed is charming and appealing, but selecting one that matches your experience level and lifestyle creates a happy life for both hamster and owner. Observe them in person at pet shops or with breeders, consult with experts, and choose your perfect companion.