Chinese Dwarf Hamsters

If you’re into hamsters, especially dwarf hamsters, you’ll want to learn something about one of the rarest types, the Chinese Dwarf Hamster. Why so rare, you ask? It has much to do with the fact that Chinese Dwarfs are very difficult to breed in captivity, as well as to the restriction that many US states place on their ownership.

More mouse-ish in appearance than most other hamsters, and smaller in size than the syrian dwarf, the Chinese Dwarf Hamster is not really even a dwarf at all. Usually, they possess a longer tail and a slightly elongated body. About ten to twelve centimeters in length when fully grown, the Chinese Dwarf are typically brownish-gray in color, with a black strip of fur along the spine. A white underbelly is common. Other than the wild or normal type, two color variations are known… the black-eyed white and the dominant spot.

Just as most rules have an exception, the rule that says that hamsters should only be kept in pairs finds it’s exception in the Chinese Dwarf. When two Chines Dwarf females are brought together when they are young often thrive better than two of the opposite sex. In the Chinese Dwarf hamster community the female dominates, so males may end up killed or wounded.

For more on breeding hamster and dwarf hamster babies, check out the other articles on this site.

When you are setting up a house for more than one, remember to give them plenty of space, hiding places, and multiple levels. This gives the submissive hamster a place to get away when the necessity arises. Also, plastic or glass houses work best, since these tiny critters can often squeeze between bars that are too far apart.

When considering what to give your Chinese Dwarf Hamster to eat, treat them much like other species of hamster. They enjoy the typical hamster pellets, seeds, vegetables, and fruit. Special treats offered rarely can include cereal like cheerios and whole wheat bread. Hamsters are also known to enjoy a rare insect like a cricket or small grasshopper, and even a mealworm or two, but not too often.

Of course, you must insure your Chinese Dwarf Hamster, like any other small pet, has constant access to a source of fresh water. Bottles work best for this, and can’t become soiled like bowls can.

The average life of a Chinese Dwarf Hamster is about two to three years. Unlike other hamsters, they can be hard to train and tame, so think twice before choosing one for your youngster. These little furballs can be aggressive, slightly skittish, and very agile. Able to leap from great heights (for them!), they are quick to escape from cages that aren’t properly closed. They are also adept climbers, and it’s all of these endearing and remarkable traits that make Chinese Dwarf Hamsters a poor choice for younger children or beginners. Also, these animals may be happiest if they are handled little or not at all.

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