1. Beginner-Friendly: Pudding Hamsters
Breed Background: A color mutation of Campbell’s Dwarf Hamsters (part of the "Three-Line" dwarf hamster group). Their fur is a solid yellow hue, resembling pudding, and they have a mild temperament.
Advantages
High Interactivity: They are friendly toward humans, making them perfect for beginners or families with kids.
Easy Care: They don’t require much space, and daily tasks like feeding and cage cleaning are simple. Note: They have poor heat tolerance, so cooling measures (e.g., a ceramic hide) are necessary in summer.
Considerations
They are prone to weight gain, so monitor their diet and avoid overfeeding high-sugar treats.
They are timid—sudden noises or quick movements may scare them.
2. For Observation: Roborovski Hamsters ("Grandpa-Grandma Hamsters")
Breed Background: The smallest common hamster breed, reaching only 4–5 cm in adult length. They have a longer lifespan than most hamsters, living 3–3.5 years.
Advantages
Adorable Appearance: They have white whiskers and eyebrows, giving them a "grandparent-like" look—ideal for owners who enjoy watching rather than handling.
Strong Athleticism: They run extremely fast and are active, providing entertainment through their movements.
Considerations
Low Interactivity: They are shy and sensitive, making it hard to form a bond or handle them. Best for "hands-off" owners.
Spacious Housing Needed: They can be housed in same-gender groups, but a cage larger than 60 cm (in length) is required to prevent territorial fights.
3. Top Pick for Medium-Sized Hamsters: Syrian Hamsters (Golden Bears)
Breed Background: The largest common pet hamster breed, growing 15–20 cm as adults. They have a gentle demeanor but strong solitary instincts.
Advantages
High Intelligence: They can be trained to perform simple tricks (e.g., spinning in circles) and are easy to handle once they trust you.
Diverse Fur Options: They come in colors like gold, white, black, and gray. Long-haired variants (such as "Xishi Bears") have a fluffy, elegant appearance.
Considerations
Must Be Housed Alone: Their territorial instincts are extremely strong—housing two together will lead to severe, even fatal, fights.
Large Enclosure Required: A cage of at least 60×35 cm is necessary, plus a running wheel with a diameter of over 25 cm (to avoid spinal issues).
4. Other Recommended Breeds
Silver Fox Hamsters
Traits: Gray-white underfur with a distinct black dorsal stripe. They are affordable and have a calm temperament.
Best For: Owners on a budget who want a low-maintenance, good-value pet.
Purple Warehouse Hamsters
Traits: Light purple fur with a subtle blue sheen and a faint (or even invisible) dorsal stripe. They are quiet and not overly active.
Best For: Owners who prefer calm pets and appreciate unique, soft coloration.
Milk Tea Hamsters
Traits: Fur color resembles pearl milk tea—visually striking with a mild personality.
Best For: Owners who want an aesthetically pleasing pet without complicated care needs.
5. Breeds to Avoid (for Beginners)
Djungarian Hamsters (e.g., "Flower Hamsters," "Snowball Hamsters")
Traits: They have atemperament (irritable nature) and are prone to biting. Not suitable for beginners.
Advice: Only experienced owners should consider them. Wear gloves when interacting to prevent bites.
Hamsters with Special Genetic Traits (e.g., Milk Tea, Pudding Hamsters)
Traits: They may have health risks (e.g., Pudding Hamsters are more likely to experience difficult labor).
Advice: Choose healthy individuals from reputable breeders. Avoid hamsters from inbred lines.