My DD being bullied. Going to get hamster. Advice please!

[Hamsterthoughts]

So... long story.

Dealing with the school and it will improve.
However I am desperate to do something to make her happier in the interim.

She has been desperate for a hamster for last two years. She’s deeply caring and very responsible, so I have no doubts about her caring for it (with my help)

I’m very house proud though. So that’s concerning!

My questions
What are they like as hamsters?
What’s upkeep like?
Are they affectionate?
Do they smell?!
Best place to keep them?
Best breed to get?

Thanks so much

@parrotonmyshoulder. So helpful thanks

These might help too!

One more question I can’t see if I have asked you already....

Do you have male or female?

Ours are girls. I used to have boys though (I had them pre kids). Boys are generally slower and a bit easier (as adults). But they have the most enormous balls, that are fine once older and furry but a bit off putting as adolescents!
Our new ones (6 months old now) have never bitten. Taming took a while - we just put our hands in the cage and sat there for hours at a time until they would come to us. DD has them loose in her room a lot and they are fine BUT watch wires and corners of carpets. The old lady is entirely free range and puts herself back in her cage when she’s ready.

Sounds wonderful
Also heard boys pee lots
So I’m now thinking two girls

Thanks again - so appreciate

Did you get from a breeder btw? Local independent pet shop seemed lovely and absolute rat lover - but then I keep hearing about importance of breeders

Not a ‘proper’ breeder I’m afraid. Someone who breeds a litter each year - a hobby breeder I guess. 3 is good - if one dies early you still have a pair so not a lonely one.
They all wee a lot. But so do all rodents.