Breeding Dwarfs

Question
Hi,
I just got two Dalmatian Dwarf Hamsters and I have one male and one female. I have some questions concerning breeding. My first question is: Do they become mentally retarded if I breed them within the family? My second question is: About how many babies should I expect per litter and how long does it take for them to have the babies after they are concieved?

      Thanks a lot for your help,
                  Nadia

Answer
Hi,

Breeding within the family can cause problems it only should be done by professional breeders who know the genetics of the hamsters. A litter can be anything from one pups onwards. Pregnancy can last for 18-21 days. Also another thing, you said the hamsters are Dalmatian Dwarf Hamsters well there is no such thing. I'm guessing they're probably some type of mottled. If so then two mottled shouldn't be bred together, doing so can produce eyeless, teethless white pups. These pups sadly only live a couple of weeks.

Deborah