Food

They're not too fussy, so just feed your dwarf hamster a good quality hamster muesli with a little bit of fresh fruit or veg every so often. As a treat, they love a bit of unsalted, unflavoured or unsweetened popcorn. A mineral stone will also provide essential minerals and gnawing opportunities for your hamster.

Environmental needs

Dwarf hamsters can be kept in same sex pairs, but keep an eye out for signs that they've fallen out; you might need to separate them if this happens. Interestingly, female Chinese hamsters are most likely to fall out, so if you choose one as a pet, keep her on her own. If you do choose two dwarf hamsters together, make sure you get them at the same time, so they'll already be friends.

Your dwarf hamster's cage will need to be as large as possible, secure and suitable for their size – avoid cages with wide bars intended for larger Syrian hamsters, their small size means dwarf hamsters are very good escape artists!

Bedding and other supplies

Make sure you pop a little house with bedding into your hamster cage, along with a food bowl and water bottle. A hamster wheel will keep him or her entertained and well-exercised, too.

Temperament and nature

Dwarf hamsters are nocturnal, so bear in mind that they may be using their wheel, making nests, or otherwise being a little noisy, during the night.

They love to explore, so maze-like toys, hidey-holes and tunnels are perfect for dwarf hamsters. Having natural wood toys or other suitable toys to gnaw on will keep their teeth in check, and stop them growing too long.

Distinguishing features

Their cheek pouches provide the perfect place for dwarf hamsters to stuff their food, so you'll often see them looking extremely cute with puffed-up little faces!