The Complete Guide to Guinea Pig Breeds

[andersontyf]

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<br>From their endearing faces to their charming antics, guinea pigs redefine cuteness. While basic care remains consistent, breed-specific needs exist, particularly for long-haired, hairless, and satin varieties. The American Cavy Breeders Association (ACBA) and American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) champion responsible breeding, currently recognizing 13 breeds. Many other breeds are well-known within the cavy community, though not officially recognized.
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<br>Let’s delve into the diverse world of guinea pig breeds, exploring both recognized and unrecognized varieties, and discuss how to properly care for these cavies.
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<br>Abyssinian: These piggies boast a wonderfully chaotic coat featuring numerous cowlicks, or rosettes, across their bodies. Martha Panda, owner of Priceless Farms Caviary, notes their spirited and attention-loving personalities. Abyssinians are considered the “greyhounds” of the cavy world, known for their athleticism and love of running. They are judged while moving in competitions. A good Abyssinian, it’s said, has “abytude.”
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<br>Abyssinian Satin: This is simply an Abyssinian with a unique “satin” sheen to its coat. The rosettes remain, and the coat maintains a slightly coarse texture. Susan Jones, cavy breeder and ARBA cavy registrar, confirms their energetic nature, mirroring that of standard Abyssinians. The satin sheen results from a genetic mutation called satin syndrome. This condition causes difficulty in calcium absorption, potentially leading to neurological issues, skeletal abnormalities, and weakened immune systems, explains Erica Montefusco, ACBA District 3 director, ARBA registrar, and owner of Critters on the Move Caviary. A diet richer in vitamin C and calcium is essential. Long-haired guinea pigs also benefit from a diet with 18% protein.
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<br>American: Likely the most familiar breed, the American guinea pig is a common and the oldest breed, formerly known as the Smooth Coat. Kody Keister, cavy breeder and member of ACBA and ARBA, describes them as curious and gentle. These guinea pigs have short, dense, and soft coats, come in various colors, and typically reach around 3 pounds. Their easy care makes them a great choice for beginner owners, needing less grooming than long-haired breeds.
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<br>American Satin: Known for their friendly and sociable nature, American satins are curious and gentle with their owners. Their coats are glossy and sleek. While generally low-maintenance, regular brushing or smoothing with a cloth helps remove loose hair. Erica Montefusco notes that satin guinea pigs share the same standard and size expectations as regular-coated guinea pigs, though poor breeding may result in smaller sizes.
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<br>Coronet: The defining characteristic of Coronets is their long, majestic hair and a single distinctive swirl, or rosette, on the top of their head. Erica Montefusco highlights the challenge of preventing matting and tangles due to their continuously growing hair, necessitating regular brushing, bathing, and trimming. These guinea pigs have mellow, sweet, and cuddly personalities. They tend to be vocal as youngsters, becoming quieter as they mature.
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<br>Peruvian Satin: Recognized in 1987, these guinea pigs could be the face of a hair-care brand. They have a satin sheen all over and a coat density that’s only one-third of a normal-coated cavy, according to Susan Jones. Long-haired guinea pigs are a special commitment, and you should consider whether you have the extra time needed before adopting a long-haired animal
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<br>Silkie (Sheltie): Imagine a Coronet without the head rosette – that’s a Silkie! Their hair grows back and away from the face. Erica Montefusco explains their soft and silky hair, hence the name. Like other long-haired breeds, regular grooming is essential. By two months old, their hair typically reaches floor length. Show pigs can grow hair up to 18 inches long after a year!
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<br>>Silkie Satin: This breed combines the long, flowing hair of the Silkie with the satin sheen. Erica Montefusco considers Silkie satins wonderful and friendly choices for dedicated owners willing to provide occasional haircuts and baths. If kept trimmed to a manageable length, their daily care is no more demanding than any other guinea pig.
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<br>>Teddy: Teddy guinea pigs have a distinct fuzzy appearance, like a teddy bear. Their coats are dense, even in length, and offer some resistance when touched. Dan Main, owner of Mainly Meadows, suggests the coat should feel like a Brillo pad. Sizes vary, with boars (males) exceeding 3 pounds and sows (females) reaching 2.2–2.5 pounds. Teddies tend to have sweet, laid-back personalities and enjoy chin scratches.<br>p><br>p>Teddy Satin: Sharing the same coat characteristics as regular Teddies, Teddy satins are set apart by their sheen, says Jessica Butler, cavy breeder and owner at Celtic Caviary. Friendly, curious, and outgoing, they typically weigh between 32–48 ounces and measure 10 inches long as adults. Their short, kinky coat with an obvious sheen is easy to maintain with regular brushing. Brush them from rump to head due to the hair growth pattern.
White Crested: The White Crested guinea pig has a smooth coat, similar to the American, but features a signature white crest on the top of their head. Thad Ritch de Herrera, cavy breeder, describes them as fun, adventurous, outgoing, and inquisitive, with more energy than some other breeds. They’re known for being bold and engaging, readily climbing on people for attention.
Baldwin: One of the two hairless breeds, Baldwin guinea pigs are born with a full coat that gradually falls out, leaving them nearly hairless except for their whiskers. Dr. Tyler Baum, exotic veterinarian, suggests they are ideal for allergy sufferers. However, they require special care to maintain their body temperature and skin health, needing a warm environment and potential moisturizing to prevent dry skin.
Skinny Pig: This hairless breed resembles a miniature hippo. Ideally, they only have hair on their face and legs, explains Naomi Williams, owner of Faithful Friends Caviary. Those with more hair are sometimes called “werewolf” skinny pigs. They need steady room temperatures between 72–75 degrees Fahrenheit, requiring blankets and space heaters. Due to their higher metabolism, they need unlimited pellets with a higher-protein content (at least 18%) to maintain healthy skin.

Alpaca: Similar in appearance to Texels, Alpacas have longer, curly hair, resembling their namesake. Regular grooming is essential to prevent tangling and matting, according to Dr. Baum. Their gentle temperament makes them a pleasant breed.

Sheba: Recognized in Australia, Sheba guinea pigs resemble Abyssinians and Peruvians due to their long, tousled hair and rosettes. Created by Wynne Eecen in 1969, they were nicknamed “Sheba Mini Yak” for their yak-like appearance. Routine grooming is a must for this medium to long-haired breed.

General Guinea Pig Care:

While guinea pigs are relatively low-maintenance, they need time, love, and attention.

Diet: 70–80% hay, 20–30% greens, and a limited amount of pellets daily.
Vitamin C: Guinea pigs cannot produce their own vitamin C, so it must be included in their diet.
Water: Fresh, clean water daily.
Habitat: Cage or playpen, equipped properly.
Handling: Handle with care, supporting their body properly.
Veterinary Care: Regular vet visits are crucial.
Young guinea pigs: Annual wellness checkup with blood work.
After age 4: Checkups every 4–6 months.
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Signs a guinea pig needs a veterinarian:
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Change in appetite or water consumption
Lethargy or weakness
Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Diarrhea or constipation
Blood in urine
Hair loss or skin lesions
Abnormal lumps or bumps
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FAQ:
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Friendliest Breed: Personality varies individually, but short-haired breeds are lower-maintenance for begin<br>.
Number of Breeds: The ARBA and ACBA recognize 13 breeds, but many others exist. The British Cavy Council recognizes over 50.

Guinea pigs make wonderful pets. Researching specific breed needs before adopting ensures you’re prepared to provide the best care.
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