male vs female

[acapae]

From a pet-keeping perspective, is there much of a difference between the sexes?

Also in hamsters, what are the proper terms for boys and girls? Are they bucks and does, or something else?

[BrainGirl]

I have found that the females are much more alert and active while the males are a bit more laid back and easygoing. Don't know if it's universal but the same goes for the chinchillas I've known, and the dogs. Hmm...come to think of it, maybe the humans too...

[Vectis Hamstery]

I have also found male Chinese hams to be more laid back and snuggly (on the whole - there can be individuals who are different) than the girls.

In hamsters they are referred to as 'male' and 'female'. Bucks and does are ratty terms

[Ilovehamsters]

Bucks and does are ratty terms (I have a buck and a doe )
My Bella is quite skittish and playful, but she's the first and only chinese hamster I have had!

[acapae]

Buck and doe as terms are also used for rabbits, mice, and degus; so it wasn't a totally obscure question! The internet is telling me that officially hamsters are sows and boar, like gerbils and guinea pigs. Guessing no one outside the scientific community actually uses them for hamsters then haha.

[evel_lin]

Originally Posted by BrainGirl

I have found that the females are much more alert and active while the males are a bit more laid back and easygoing. Don't know if it's universal but the same goes for the chinchillas I've known, and the dogs. Hmm...come to think of it, maybe the humans too...

*snigger*

To be fair I'd agree with you about males being slightly more laid back, it's the same with my cats too. I shan't comment about my DH...

[Truffle]

I have two females, and they are both super alert and very active (even a little hyper). My Syrian is not so keen on cuddle though Pippa is for short periods of time.

My friend has a male Syrian who is much more laid back and will happily sit on you hand for a hour at a time.

[hamsterhelper]

Originally Posted by BrainGirl

I have found that the females are much more alert and active while the males are a bit more laid back and easygoing. Don't know if it's universal but the same goes for the chinchillas I've known, and the dogs. Hmm...come to think of it, maybe the humans too...

I have to agree, my wee female chinese hamster is so tame, but then again really alert and active. When I got her, she was tame and let you hold her happily, but wouldn't take food out of your hand. Now she will take food from your hand and will fall asleep in your hand if you stroke her wee face. But anyway, back to the question, I prefer female chinese as they are more alert and active and also I don't like the look of the males chinese bits from behind!!!

[acapae]

Thanks for the info. Another aspect on the same question; are there any differences in terms common age-linked health issues between the sexes?