Everything You Need to Know About the Russian Dwarf Hamster

The Russian Dwarf Hamster is a beloved pet due to its adorable appearance and lively behavior. Many people want one, but don’t always know how to care for these small rodents. Here, you'll find all the essential information about the Russian Dwarf Hamster, from their origins to their diet and care.

Origin and General Information about the Russian Dwarf Hamster

Where do Russian Dwarf Hamsters come from?

Let's talk about the Russian Dwarf Hamster, also known as Phodopus sungorus. These little creatures hail from the steppes and grasslands of Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and Siberia. They are well-adapted to cold climates, with a thick coat to keep them warm. Due to their social and curious nature, they’ve become popular pets.

What kind of pets are Russian Dwarf Hamsters?

So, why are they so loved? They are small, easy to care for, and friendly. They can live well with other hamsters and are quite simple to tame, making them ideal for both children and adults. Remember, Russian Dwarf Hamsters are nocturnal, meaning they sleep during the day and are active at night. This is something to consider when setting up their living space.

 

Appearance and Behavior of the Russian Dwarf Hamster

The Russian Dwarf Hamster is truly a cute little animal with a small round body weighing between 30 and 50 grams. They have soft, dense fur, usually gray with a dark stripe down their back. Their small, round ears and large, black eyes reflect their curiosity.

Children often enjoy Russian Dwarf Hamsters for their cute looks and playful behavior. These hamsters are usually friendly and can be tamed with patience and gentle handling. They can even learn tricks, like running in their wheel or navigating tunnels, which is fun for both the hamster and the child.

Because these hamsters are small and delicate, it’s important for children to learn how to handle them gently. Always supervise young children when they play with the hamster to protect both the animal and the child. The calm and curious nature of Russian Dwarf Hamsters makes them great pets for families.

 

Housing for the Russian Dwarf Hamster

Having a good living space is crucial for the health and well-being of your Russian Dwarf Hamster. They need space to move, play, and rest. Here’s what to consider:

• What kind of cage for a Russian Dwarf Hamster?

When choosing a cage, pay attention to size, ventilation, and safety. A cage with horizontal bars is ideal, as it allows the hamster to climb. The minimum size should be 60x40 cm, but bigger is always better. Ensure the bars are close enough to prevent escape. Here's our favourite cage for the Russian dwarf hamster.

• What’s a nice house for a Russian Dwarf Hamster?

Hamsters love hiding places. A small house or hideout in the cage provides a sense of security. This house can be made of wood, plastic, or ceramic. Place soft bedding inside so the hamster can rest comfortably.

• Bedding

The right bedding ensures comfort and absorbs moisture. Materials like paper, hemp, kapok or wood fibers are suitable. Avoid materials that cause dust, like sawdust, as this can lead to respiratory problems. Change the bedding regularly to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

 

Exercise Wheel for Russian Dwarf Hamster

An exercise wheel is a fun addition to your Russian Dwarf Hamster’s cage. These energetic little rodents need a lot of exercise, and a wheel is perfect for burning off energy. But not just any wheel will do.

Choose the right wheel:

• Diameter: Ensure the wheel has a diameter of at least 20 cm to prevent back problems.
• Surface: The running surface should be solid and closed to avoid the hamster’s feet getting caught.
• Material: Plastic and wooden wheels are usually good choices. They are quiet and durable.

Hamsters are nocturnal and often use the wheel at night. A quiet model is therefore recommended so you can sleep soundly. Place the wheel in an accessible spot in the cage where it won’t bump into other objects.

A good exercise wheel keeps your hamster active and healthy, which is essential for its well-being. Next, let’s look at the nesting behavior of Russian Dwarf Hamsters and how you can help them build a comfortable nest.

 

Do Russian Dwarf Hamsters Build Nests?

Yes, Russian Dwarf Hamsters love to build nests to sleep in and feel secure. This nesting behavior is an important part of their natural instincts and contributes to their well-being.

To help your hamster build a comfortable nest, provide the right nesting materials. Think of paper strips, hay, and special hamster nesting material from pet stores. Avoid cotton or any material that could fray and cause choking hazards.

Nesting Material and Placement

Place the nesting material in a corner of the cage or in their hideout. The hamster will move the material around and build a nest to its liking. Keep the nest area clean and dry to prevent disease and keep your hamster healthy.

 

What Do Russian Dwarf Hamsters Eat?

A balanced diet is crucial for the health of your Russian Dwarf Hamster. These small rodents have specific dietary needs that must be met to keep them healthy and happy. By choosing the right food, you ensure your hamster gets all the necessary nutrients for a long and healthy life. Here are the main types of food to consider:

Hamster Pellets

Hamster pellets are specially formulated to provide all the essential nutrients your hamster needs. They ensure your hamster gets a balanced diet without picking out only favorite bits, which often happens with mixed food. Always choose high-quality pellets and check the ingredients to avoid added sugars or artificial colors.

Mixed Hamster Food

Mixed hamster food consists of a combination of seeds, grains, nuts, and sometimes dried fruits and vegetables. This variety in texture and taste stimulates your hamster and mimics its natural foraging behavior. A populair choice is the Hobbyfirst Hope Farms Hamster Granola.

Supplementary Food

In addition to the basic diet, you can occasionally give fresh vegetables and small amounts of fruit. Think of carrots, broccoli, and apples, but avoid citrus fruits as they are too acidic. Having some snacks in stock might be a good idea, too. Or, when your hamster needs it, you can also add nutritional supplements.

 

How to Tame a Russian Dwarf Hamster

Taming a Russian Dwarf Hamster requires patience and gentle interaction. Here are some steps to help your hamster get used to you and build a bond:

1. Let your hamster get used to its new environment: Give your hamster a few days to acclimate to its new home before starting the taming process. Make sure its cage is in a quiet place without too much noise and movement.

2. Offer your hand: Place your hand quietly in the cage without touching the hamster directly. Let it sniff your hand and get used to your scent. This may take several days, depending on the hamster.

3. Use treats: Offer treats like sunflower seeds or small pieces of fruit from your hand. This helps create positive associations. Be patient and let the hamster come to you.

4. Start gently picking up: Once your hamster is comfortable taking treats from your hand, try gently picking it up. Do this by sliding your hand under its body and lifting it gently. Always stay close to the ground to prevent falls.

5. Regular interaction: Interact with your hamster daily, even if it’s just for a few minutes at a time. Consistency helps strengthen the bond between you.

6. Be patient and calm: Hamsters can be startled by sudden movements and loud noises. Speak softly and move slowly to avoid frightening your hamster.

By following these steps and giving your hamster time to get used to you, you can have a tame and happy Russian Dwarf Hamster that enjoys your company.

 

The Ban on Russian Dwarf Hamsters in the Netherlands and Belgium

On May 1st, it was announced that Russian Dwarf Hamsters are banned in the Netherlands and Belgium. This news surprised many hamster owners and animal lovers. The reason for this ban relates to concerns about the welfare of the animals and preventing illegal trade. Here's the full list of banned animals in the Netherlands, and here's the full list of animals you can in Belgium.

Why are Russian Dwarf Hamsters banned?

The ban stems from concerns about how these animals are bred and sold. Many issues have been discovered in the trade of Russian Dwarf Hamsters, such as poor living conditions and lack of care. By implementing the ban, authorities hope to address these problems and improve animal welfare.

Why can't you keep a Russian Dwarf Hamster anymore?

The ban also aims to prevent people from unknowingly buying a Russian Dwarf Hamster without the proper knowledge and ability to care for them. This ban is meant to protect both the animals and potential owners.

 

Are Russian Dwarf Hamsters Dangerous?

While Russian Dwarf Hamsters are generally friendly and tame, they can bite if they feel threatened. This is rare and can usually be avoided by approaching and handling them correctly. It's important to teach children how to interact with the hamster calmly and respectfully to prevent biting incidents.