How to train your hamster

By David Lessem

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Sunflower seeds
Other treats

Step 1:
Allow a new hamster enough time to get comfortable. When you first take the hamster home from the store, you should keep him in a fresh, clean cage for several hours without disturbing him.
Step 2:
Take it slow. Don't immediately pick up your hamster. Instead, put your open hand in the cage with a sunflower seed or other treat on it. It may take several minutes, but she will come and take the seed.
Step 3:
Repeat Step 2 several times. When he has had enough time to get used to your scent, start petting him gently when he comes for the seed.
Step 4:
Once your hamster has gotten used to you, pick her up gently. Hold her for a few minutes, then put her back.
Step 5:
You may not realize it, but you have already taught your hamster his first trick. If you put your hand in the cage, he will come whether you have a sunflower seed or not. Now, teach him another trick.
Step 6:
Call the hamster by putting out your hand. When she comes, hold the sunflower seed above her head and say "stand." When she stands to get it, give her the treat and pet and praise her.
Step 7:
Repeat the stand trick until your hamster will stand with or without a treat.
Step 8:
If you want to try something more challenging, teach your hamster to roll over. First call him over to you.
Step 9:
Put a sunflower seed on her back and say "roll over." She will roll to get it. Repeat this trick until the hamster gets it down.
Step 10:
Once your hamster knows how to roll over, make him do the trick before you give him the sunflower seed. Once he has done the trick, reward him.

Tips & Warnings

Most hamsters love sunflower seeds, but other treats can be used. Experiment and see what your hamster really likes to eat.

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