How To Keep A Hamster And A Dog 13 Steps With Pictures

These tanks heat up quickly. Keep them far away from heating vents and direct sunlight. Buy a hamster-safe thermometer to make sure the temperature doesn’t rise more than a degree or two above 75℉ (24℃). The ideal range is 65-75℉ (18-24℃). [2] X Research source Glass tanks can also lead to a quicker buildup of ammonia, which could cause respiratory problems for your hamster. Remove wet bedding daily and clean the cage weekly.

Wire cages may be a better option if you live in a hot climate or are worried about cleaning the cage consistently.

Instead, provide tunnels inside the cage.

Because your hamster will be away from the family’s main action in these rooms, hang out with your hamster in its private area for at least an hour a day. Hamsters are crepuscular, so they will move around in the late evening and dawn hours. This noise could disturb your dog, so keep the hamster in a separate area from where your dog will sleep or rest.

If you can’t completely separate your hamster and dog, it’s especially important that the cage be up high. Try to put the cage higher than your dog could reach with its paws.

Never punish or shout at your dog when they’re barking. Instead, reward them when they’re being quiet. You can also figure out what makes your dog bark and avoid exposing them to the source of the problem. [11] X Research source

Don’t open the hamster cage without the help of a parent or another adult. Keep the hamster cage securely closed if your dog is nearby. Never handle your hamster or let it out to play unless the door to its room is closed. These guidelines are especially important to emphasize to children aged about eight and younger.

Let your dog outside or keep it in a different room during this time. This will allow your hamster to visit other parts of the house outside of its room. Keep the exercise ball away from ledges or steps. It’s also safer to keep the ball on carpeted flooring, if possible.

It’s much more likely that your hamster will get hurt if you try to encourage a friendship between your dog and your hamster.