04/30/2021
If there was just one thing that I wanted new and potential owners to read before coming to me and reserving their baby, this post would be it.
Hedgehogs are cute, I mean they are REALLY cute! But hedgehogs are also little bundles of attitude wrapped in a pokey exterior. They each have their own personality and have the potential to improve upon their current friendliness. They are small, but can have BIG attitudes. Hedgehogs in general are very dramatic creatures. They love over reacting to most everything going on around them. They are also quite prickly. They will stand their quills up on end, and begin hopping around in an effort to poke and deter predators, including people.
I am asked on a regular basis if hedgehogs are soft. This is an interesting question. They have soft tummies, if they trust you enough to allow you to touch it...that's a whole other story. Quills are not soft, they are this animals defense mechanism. Hedgies are far less prickly feeling when they are relaxed and they lower their quills. But in general, no. The answer is no, hedgehogs are NOT "soft". They are literally an armored mammal.
So please consider your own personality when choosing a hedgehog pet. Are you jumpy? Are your hands very sensitive? Will you be offended by a little pet that grumps at you when you wake him or her up?
I believe there is a hedgehog to fit with everyone's personality, but it might take some chatting with the breeder and waiting before you find your perfect fit.
This new pet is a commitment, not something to rush. This is also not a time to simply purchase the cheapest hedgehog you find. Not unless you are willing to spend real time being steady and patient with what could be a shy and worried animal. Many people view this personality as "mean".
As a breeder, I will be the first to say that sometimes despite early handling, there are some babies that are just naturally cautious and will require extra time to bond with.
Ask your breeder questions about the baby you're interested in.
I utilize a personality scale on my For Sale page. I hope buyers take the time to read it and understand it before looking at the adorable babies for sale.
I don't want to consider this a rant, it really isn't. But this is a request to give your new pet a little extra thought and consideration before just looking at that cute face and the price tag.