Guinea Pig Types and Breeds

Many different types or breeds of cavy or guinea pigs have been developed since they were first domesticated over seven thousand years ago. They originated in the Andes, the mountain range that runs down the west coast of South America. They were originally domesticated by the Andean people as an agricultural stock for food, just as we breed chickens today.

Guinea pigs were first introduced to Europe in the fifteenth century when they were found to be quiet, relatively easy to keep and handle and naturally appealing in nature. There are mainly four types of pig kept as pets. The short haired, Abyssinian, Peruvian and Sheltie which is sometimes known as the Silkie. All of these were found to be very companionable even though they may fall short of the perfection needed for show animals. The show breeds can be a little more difficult to maintain and some prone to genetic defects. Most of the breeds are also available as Satin which have a special gloss to their fur. This is caused by their hollow hair shafts. It has now been found that the gene responsible for the hollow hair shaft is also responsible for severe bone defects and problems.

Short Haired or Smooth Coated

The short-haired or smooth coated variety is also often called the American or English cavy. These pigs have consistent short, glossy hair with no parting. This is the most similar pig to its ancestors and is the most common variety kept as pets. There are very few problems with grooming and they only require an occasional brush to keep them tidy.

The Abyssinian

The Abyssinian has a short rough coat with rosettes through it, where the hair spreads out from a central point. The pigs should have at least eight of these rosettes. There should be a rosette on each shoulder, four across the animal's back. There should be one rosette on each hip and two on the rump. They should also have a harsh textured coat with the hair standing on end forming ridges.

Abyssinians can have a raised fur over their noses which can look like a little moustache. The Abyssinian is not thought to have originated in Abyssinia which is today called Ethiopia.

The Peruvian

The Peruvian which is a long haired pig also has a rosette in its hair, on its head. This makes the hair fall forward over its nose. The hair is normally shiny and soft. This hair can grow quite long and this means that you would have to take more care with the Peruvian. Grooming is a constant with this breed to keep them tidy.

The Sheltie or Silkie

Shelties are very similar to the Peruvian but they do not have the rosette on their heads so that their hair does not fall forward over their face but lies back. Shelties have long hair on their cheeks which can look like a beard,

No matter which type of breed you get I am sure that you will enjoy getting to know and love your little piggy.

John Evans is a lifelong guinea pig lover. For more great information, visit my website.

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