Due to an outbreak of monkeypox in 2003, the capture and sale/trade of prairie dogs was banned in the US.
Personality
Prairie dogs can be one of the most affectionate of pets if handled properly as youngsters. Essentially all prairie dogs are wild-caught as babies, and need a great deal of handling as babies to bond with their owners. Prairie dogs are very social though, and once they bond they crave their owner's attention and company. Prairie dogs are only good pets for people who have lots of time to devote to their pet. A prairie dog that is left caged alone most of the day will be very lonely indeed, and may develop behavior problems or even become depressed (sometimes so depressed that become ill). Prairie dogs appreciate the company of other prairie dogs, but if you decide to keep more than one prairie dog it is advised to keep them separate until they are bonded with you. Once they are tame and well bonded to their owners they can be gradually introduced to each other. Keeping prairie dogs together from a young age may result in them bonding mostly with each other and making them less affectionate with their owners.
Prairie dogs can be challenging though, as they are strong and can be difficult to handle if they feel frightened, and can inflict a deep painful bite. Owners need to become familiar with prairie dog body language and behavior to be able to read and respond to what they prairie dog is feeling. Some experts say that prairie dogs do not make good pets for children for these reasons - children may inadvertently frighten or excite a prairie dog are often not sensitive pets' body language, and bites or injuries can result.
Legal Issues
Thanks to monkeypox, the capture, movement and trade in prairie dogs in now illegal in the US (more information). Elsewhere, potential owners need to check with local authorities about the legal status of prairie dogs before planning on acquiring one as a pet.
Finding a Prairie Dog
Prairie dogs are captured in the wild as babies and thererfore are only available in the spring months. Finding a dealer is not too difficult but you should choose a USDA licensed dealer that uses humane methods to catch their prairie dogs, and provides a low stress period of adjustment to captivity before selling the babies. The dealer should be able to provide you with a health certificate and the appropraite USDA paperwork.
Male or Female?
As far as personality or pet quality goes, it doesn't really matter if you get a male or female. Prairie dogs have anal (scent) glands and can emit a powerful musky odor if threatened although it is usually not troublesome. Males are larger and do have a slightly stronger musky odor. Females should be spayed and males neutered - this will make them better pets and prevent related health problems. If keeping more than one prairie dog, they can be kept in same sex pairs or groups, or one male with one or more females (if a female is present in a group, the males may fight, even if neutered).
Basic Needs
Since they are a good size, prairie dogs need a large cage with lots of room to play and exercise. Being quite active and playful, they need a variety of toys, especially those suitable for chewing. As well, a large exercise wheel with a solid surface is a good idea. Prairie dogs should be fed a variety of grass hays, along with some rabbit pellets (limited amounts) and occasional treats of other greens, vegetables, and grains (very limited quantities).