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Dwarf Hamster Species

From Lianne McLeod, DVM, for About.com

Rudy - Dwarf Hamster

Rudy - Dwarf Hamster

Photo © Betsy
Introduction: Dwarf hamsters are gaining in popularity in the pet trade. The dwarf hamsters differ from other species in that they are social and can be kept in pairs or small groups (stick to a single sex unless you are a breeder). Below are the most commonly seen dwarf hamsters. Chinese hamsters are sometimes grouped with dwarf hamsters because they are small, but they are not true dwarf hamsters.
Dwarf Campbells Russian Hamster: This are generally the most likely dwarf hamster you will find in a pet store. Read about them here: Dwarf Campbells Russian Hamster Profile
Dwarf Winter White Russian Hamster: These are very similar and closely related to the Dwarf Campbells Russian Hamster (and are sometime misidentified or crossed with Campbells). Read about them here: Dwarf Winter White Russian Hamster Profile
Roborovski Hamsters: These are the smallest of the dwarf hamsters kept as pets. They are very quick and agile which makes them tricky to handle. Read more about them here: Roborovski Hamster Profile

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