Hello! New breeder

[Catherine G]

Hello!
My name is Catherine and I'm new to this board. I'm a new but serious breeder of Syrian hamsters. I've learned a lot and would like to learn more about genetics and coat colors. I'm starting out with pet store hamsters, which I know is frowned upon, but I was unable to find any nearby breeders (one reason I'm getting into breeding). I'm certainly not doing it for money - I don't see how I can break even actually.

I will leave you with a pic of my Aurora (one of my month old pups that I'm keeping).

Thanks for reading!

[Pebbles82]

Hi there. There are experienced breeders on here who can advise on genetics etc. However, I think most people would say, don't start with pet shop hamsters if you don't know their genetic history. Things can go badly wrong with genetically inherited illnesses and disease with the wrong pairings.

But do stay! You will find out a lot more about breeding from experienced breeders. Also you might want to look at joining the NHC where you can meet and discuss things with registered breeders.

[Catherine G]

Originally Posted by Serendipity7000

Hi there. There are experienced breeders on here who can advise on genetics etc. However, I think most people would say, don't start with pet shop hamsters if you don't know their genetic history. Things can go badly wrong with genetically inherited illnesses and disease with the wrong pairings.

But do stay! You will find out a lot more about breeding from experienced breeders. Also you might want to look at joining the NHC where you can meet and discuss things with registered breeders.

Thanks! I can use any advice anyone would care to give me. I don't think I can join the NHC though because I'm in the US? They still have good info though.

[Pebbles82]

Oh sorry I didn't realise you were in the US. I think it is harder to find breeders there. Nancy breeds and is in the US - she hasn't been on for a while but I'm sure she could guide you where to start.

[Catherine G]

Thank you!

[Vectis Hamstery]

Hello and welcome to the forum. It's tough starting out breeding in America. You could contact the California Hamster Association to see if they know anyone reputable nearer you (even though California is a long way away). The National Hamster Council site has a copy of the Handbook free to download that has the colour standards as well as the breeding code and code of practice. I'd recommend having a look at that: https://hamsters-uk.org/joomla30/ind...o/nhc-handbook

Which colours are you aiming for?

[Catherine G]

Originally Posted by Vectis Hamstery

Hello and welcome to the forum. It's tough starting out breeding in America. You could contact the California Hamster Association to see if they know anyone reputable nearer you (even though California is a long way away). The National Hamster Council site has a copy of the Handbook free to download that has the colour standards as well as the breeding code and code of practice. I'd recommend having a look at that: https://hamsters-uk.org/joomla30/ind...o/nhc-handbook

Which colours are you aiming for?

Thank you for the info! I'll try contacting the CHA. To be perfectly honest, since I'm working with genetic unknowns I'm not sure what I am aiming for color-wise yet. My original goal was to be an alternative to big box pet stores.

[Vectis Hamstery]

I'd recommend keeping a good eye on type as well as temperament, even if you're not sure on the colours. The type in the hamster standards is set for health, e.g. the head shape allowing space for the eyes to sit well and the brain to develop.

[Catherine G]

Originally Posted by Vectis Hamstery

I'd recommend keeping a good eye on type as well as temperament, even if you're not sure on the colours. The type in the hamster standards is set for health, e.g. the head shape allowing space for the eyes to sit well and the brain to develop.

OK. Thanks for the help and info!