Did You Realize There Are Three Breeds Of Russian Dwarf Hamsters And They Require Special Care?

By Liz Andrews


For over 2 decades, Russian dwarf hamsters have made its name among domesticated hamsters. Initially presented in the pet business in the mid-20th century, Russian dwarf hamsters have been usually brought up as pets. These dwarf hamsters can be sorted into three varities: Campbell's Dwarf hamster, Winter White Dwarf hamster, and the Roborovski Dwarf hamster. Every varities has their distinctive characteristics. If you are planning to raise one, it will be favorable if you know aware knowledgeable of some information about them. There only, can you conclude which Russian dwarf hamster you would like to take care of.

Campbell's dwarf hamster has a scientific name, Phodopus campbelli. It is otherwise known as the Djungarian hamster. Thisvariety of Russian dwarf hamster has a gray-brown color with dark dorsal stripes. They have heavy fur and at times, are confused with Winter White Russian dwarf hamsters. Because of their noticeable similarities, some pet handlers have a difficult time distinguishing the two.

This hamster type can grow as much as 4 inches and survive to two years. They possess a triangular head with a small nose, and their tails are short. Campbell's dwarf hamsters are friendly and are easy to take care of, even if placed in groups. Among Russian dwarf hamsters, they are the most ordinary and available in pet stores.

Winter White Russian dwarf hamster has a scientific name, Phodopus sungorus. It is otherwise known as the Siberian hamster. They are like the Campbell's type when it comes to their looks. They mature up to four inches and can live up to two years as well. There have been some uncertainties raised before if the two breeds may be of the same specie. Aside from their striking resemblance, these 2 varieties of Russian dwarf hamster can also interbreed with each other.

But they can also be different in some other ways. The Winter White's fur may change its grayish fur into white during winter season. This is the reason why it was identified as such, because of this inimitable characteristic. They are not normally sold as well in pet shops, but these hamsters are far more charming to humans than the Campbell's. If you can find one, then this is a amazing pet to own.

The final class of Russian dwarf hamster would be the Roborovski dwarf hamster. It has a scientific name, Phodopus roborovskii. Unlike their other counterparts, they are very short. They can only develop up to two inches fully developed. But they have the longest life span among the three classes. They are expected to live up to three and a half years. They are also believed to be the fastest among the Russian dwarf hamsters. In general, this type is social and can be brought up in groups as well. But their size and agility sometimes make it hard for owners to control them. I should advise that you place them in a home where they can't easily escape. It would be hard for you to search for them once they get away. Placing a top lid on the cage can be a solution.

Caring for Russian dwarf hamsters are more or less the same for each type. They need proper home, fresh diet, and a hygienic setting. Just guarantee that their well-being is maintained. However, whichever hamster you want to take as a pet, you will find out that taking care of these little creatures can be such fun.




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