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Difference between Russian and Chinese dwarf hamsters
Are you deciding between a Russian dwarf hamster and a Chinese dwarf hamster ? Both are lovely hamsters, but they differ in appearance, behavior, and how to best set up their habitat. Below you'll find a clear comparison.
Back to the hub Chinese: Chinese dwarf hamster information Back to the hub Russian: Russian dwarf hamster information
Quick comparison
- Appearance: Chinese dwarf hamster has a longer tail and looks slimmer.
- Behavior: Chinese is often faster and more agile ; Russian is often a bit rounder in build and often wakes up briefly during the day.
- Habitat: Both species like to dig and hide; for both species, plenty of shelter and a deep digging layer works best.
- Handling: Build up slowly with both; with the Chinese, "safe transfer" with a tube is often extra useful.
- Housing: For pets , one hamster per enclosure is the most stable choice.
Which one is right for you?
Choose primarily based on your expectations:
- Do you want active viewing pleasure, especially in the evenings, and a quick explorer? Then the Chinese dwarf hamster is often a good fit.
- Do you want a dwarf hamster that you can see briefly during the day and with whom calm contact often works well? Then the Russian dwarf hamster might be a good match.
Practical basis that works for both
- Spacious accommodation with plenty of floor space
- Deep, diggable ground cover
- Multiple hiding places (houses + tunnels)
- Safe running wheel with closed running surface
- Sand bath as a fixed zone
- Scattering and foraging
Useful shopping links (for both types)
Hamster cages · Bedding · Houses · Tunnels · Exercise wheels · Sand & sand bath · Hamster food
Questions? Visit our service page .
For general background information you can also consult the LICG .
