A hedgehog is not a common pet. They are illegal in some areas, but if they are welcome in yours, you’ll find these hedgehog basics useful.
The pet hedgehogs found in North America are a mixed species. Breeders call them “African Pygmy Hedgehogs” but that is a made up name, rather than a species name. The hedgehog breeds that make up a pet hedgehog’s ancestry do originally come from Africa. They come in a wide range of colors, thanks to careful breeding.
Yes, hedgehogs are prickly. Their backs are covered with short prickly spines; their bellies have soft fur. The rows of spines lay nearly flat when a hedgehog is relaxed. If your hedgehog feels threatened, he’ll roll into a tight ball — only the spines will stick out.
Hedgehogs are relatively small, reaching an average of six or seven inches in length. They may live as long as eight years or as few as three years, but the average expected life span of a hedgehog is around five years.
A hedgehog is a relatively low maintenance pet. They don’t mind occasional handling, but don’t need constant attention and play. The younger your hedgehog is when you get him, the more adjusted he’ll become to handling. Six to eight weeks of age is the recommended age for a young hedgehog to join his new family. Both males and females are good pets, but plan on only one. Most hedgehogs are happy to be kept alone; hedgehogs housed together may fight.
When picking a hedgehog, try to locate a reputable breeder — this will ensure that the young hedgehogs are handled regularly and bred for good temperament. You can try to pick up your hedgehog of choice; a good natured hedgehog will let you pick him up, even turn him on his back and not curl up into a defensive ball.