Phodopus campbelli
Campbell's Dwarf Hamster
Campbell's dwarf hamsters are quick, inquisitive pocket pets best suited to an owner who wants to watch rather than constantly handle their animal. Their diabetes risk means diet needs closer attention than for Syrian hamsters.
CricetidaeLifespan 1.5–2.5 yearsCare complexity 2/5Suitable for beginners
At a glance
- Scientific name
- Phodopus campbelli
- Family
- Cricetidae
- Origin
- Steppe and semi-desert grassland of Mongolia, Central Asia and northern China
- Lifespan
- 1.5–2.5 years
- Adult size
- 8–10 cm
- Weight
- 20–40 g
- Temperament
- Fast-moving and can be nippy if handled roughly or infrequently
- Activity level
- High and almost entirely nocturnal
- Social needs
- Low toward humans; best kept solitary, as adults often fight if housed together
- Intelligence
- Good spatial memory for burrow layout and food caching
- Noise
- Quiet, occasional squeaking during disputes or wheel noise at night
Housing and environment
- Housing
- Glass tank or bin-cage style enclosure with 20–30 cm depth of digging substrate
- Space requirement
- Wide, deep-substrate footprint rather than height matters most
- Temperature
- 18–22°C, avoiding draughts and direct sun
- Humidity
- 40–60%
- Exercise
- Solid-wheel running, digging and an enclosure of at least 100 x 50 cm floor space
- Grooming
- Self-grooming with sand bath access; no brushing required
Diet and feeding
Dwarf hamster seed and pellet mix, small amounts of vegetables, occasional mealworm for protein
Behaviour and compatibility
Extensive burrowing, food hoarding, wheel running, territorial scent marking
- With children
- Better suited to calm older children or adults given the species' quick movements and nippiness
- With other animals
- Solitary housing recommended; keep away from predatory pets
- Training difficulty
- Moderate; regular gentle handling from a young age improves tolerance
Health
- Diabetes mellitus, to which the species is genetically predisposed
- Wet tail
- Overgrown teeth
- Skin mites
Needs a small-mammal vet familiar with the breed's diabetes risk if drinking or urination increases
Special care requirements
Avoid sugary treats and fruit due to the breed's diabetes predisposition