Fancy Russian Dwarf Hamster

• Active at night
• Ideal for children 10 & up
• Social within the same family
• High energy level
• Lives up to 3 years

The Fancy Russian Dwarf Hamster is shaped like a bullet and measures about 3-4 inches long (males are usually slightly larger than females). Several color varieties are available. They have a more satin-like coat with a high, glossy sheen and thick hair covering their feet.

These hamsters are fairly energetic and can be kept in same-sex pairs or in groups if they are all raised together. With consistent interaction, they are relatively easy to tame. Once tamed, they are friendly, confident, and curious. They are active and like to move around, so, even though they're small, they need a habitat that provides plenty of room. They like to run and play at night and sleep during the day, so they may be active and noisy after dark.

Things to remember

Easily startled
Be careful, if she gets scared, she may bite. Take extra care when awakening her.

Lifting & handling
Handle your hamster gently -- scoop her up in both hands and hold her with cupped hands so she'll feel safe and secure.

Special needs
Your hamster's front teeth never stop growing -- so she needs lots of healthy things to chew on like treats and chew sticks.

Exercise
Hamsters have tons of energy and need to run on a wheel in their habitat, or in an exercise ball every day.

Nutrition
Choose a fortified diet appropriate for hamsters.

More information
Visit our Hamster guide to learn more about the traits and behaviors that make hamsters great pets, plus find care information and the products you'll need to keep them healthy and happy.

PetSmart offers several hamster species. Here's some information to help you make an educated decision about which species of hamster will best fit your family.

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