rushin dwarf hamster

Question
hi,
  I got my new dwarf hamster (chip)(10-12 weeks old)4 days ago from pets at home but they didn't tell me if he was a Campbell or winter white what is the beat way to tell the deference? and also he wont eat any treats I've tried him with lots i have now got a big box of treats he wont eat (homemade and store bought treats# why will he not eat them? plus i gave him a sand bath #chinchilla bathing dust# he only rolled in it once why is that? finally would it be possible to give me a list of all foods to feed him and what not to feed him.          
         thank you so very much     #ps.i'm 11 have and have only had a syrian before who lived for 4 years)

Answer
Hi Aelisha

Thanks for your question.  

sometimes it is difficult to know if a dwarf is a Campbell or Winter White.  This is because there are various hybrid varieties where people have crossbred them.  There is some very help information on this site: http://www.hamsterhouse.com/forum/index.php?topic=16187.0

Regarding treats - not all hamsters like them.  You might find that he just likes sunflower seeds or nuts, or sultanas etc.  Don't worry if he doesn't want treats - that is fine.  Regarding his dust bath - they don't often roll in them all the time - just now and again, so again don't worry about this.

Foodwise - the important things never to feed a hamster are chocolate or chocolate products are these are highly toxic and can kill them.  I don't give hamster chocolates/yoghurt drops as these are almost pure fat and can clog their cheeks.  also, avoid giving much lettuce as this can cause diarrhoea.  It is best not to feed too many sweet treats or even dried fruits because some dwarf hamsters (Campbells in particular) are prone to developing diabetes.  Sweet foods in moderation should be OK but if you ever notice him drinking a lot more water than usual, then cut all sugary products out immediately.

It is important to have dry hamster food available all the time. In addition, give a small amount of fresh vegetables daily - such as a small piece of cabbage, sweet corn, peas, brocolli etc.  As a treat every couple of weeks you could give a small piece of cheese and some scrambled eggs. Dwarf hamsters also love seed mixes - such as millet, sesame, sunflower, linseed, pumpkin etc.

I hope this helps you.

Regards
Sheila