Syrian hamsters, also known as golden hamsters, were introduced as pets by the American highway engineer Albert Marsh, who started a hamster breeding business in the 1940s. The Syrian hamster remains the most popular choice of pet hamster due to its low cost, ease of care and the many different variations available, although the various species of dwarf hamster and chinese hamsters are also commonly kept as pets.
Learn about the differences between each type of hamster and the care each requires before choosing the one that is best for you and your family.