Guinea pigs are loved as pets across the globe for their friendliness, fluffiness, and smart nature. Historically, these cavies were mere livestock, but today, they’re popular, furry companions that have been bred in various coat colors and textures. This includes the Peruvian guinea pig with hair that can grow more than 20 inches from head to toe!
In this guide, we explore five of the most unique breeds recognized by the American Cavy Breeders Association and whether they make good pets.
1. Texel Guinea Pigs Are Sweet and Intelligent
First on our list of unique guinea pig breeds is the curly-coated Texel. Known for their incredible locks, this breed is sweet and affectionate, and they’re quite intelligent, too. Compared to other guinea pigs, Texels are shorter and reach a length of between eight and 10 inches. While they are spectacular in appearance, they come with a great deal of maintenance.
The Texel guinea pig is more popular in the show ring than as a pet because of the amount of grooming it needs. Because of their curly coats, they tend to collect dirt and debris that may cause matting and skin irritation. You’ll need to groom them by brushing their coats several times a week. Look for soiling around their bottoms and clean the area to prevent discomfort and infection. Other than their grooming, Texel guinea pigs are soft-natured and trustful, making them excellent pets. Add a few guinea pig-approved toys for enrichment, and you’ll really see their personalities shine.
2. Peruvian Guinea Pigs Have Long, Flowing Locks
The Peruvian guinea pig is admired for its long, flowing hair and gentle nature. Their straight hair covers their heads and bodies and can grow up to 24 inches long. Originating from South America, they were once called Angora guinea pigs for their dense coats. The Peruvian guinea pig needs some maintenance, which includes trimming the hair around its face. Their locks can cover their eyes, obscuring their vision, and this can lead to skittishness. Your pet guinea pig’s cage should be cleaned weekly to prevent bedding and fecal matter from clinging to their fur.
Peruvian guinea pigs will grow up to 14 inches in length, and while they’re considered large for a guinea pig, they make great pets. Guinea pig fanciers not only praise this breed for its appearance but also for its devoted personality and gentle temperament. The Peruvian breed is friendly, and they enjoy regular cuddles once tamed. They’re high maintenance because their coats need constant grooming, but if you have the time to dedicate to their care, you’ll be rewarded with tremendous love.
3. Coronets Have Rosettes on Their Foreheads
Coronet guinea pigs resulted from the combination of the silkie (another guinea pig breed) and American breeds. They have long hair, but what distinguishes them from Peruvians and silkies is the rosette feature on their foreheads. Coronets reach up to 16 inches in length with coat colors ranging from brown and tortoiseshell to agouti. These little pigs have adorable personalities, and their temperament is described as easy-going. They get along with less aggressive guinea pigs, and many breeders prefer to place them in the ring for their showmanship.
Much like the Peruvian and Texel, you’ll need to spend time brushing your coronet guinea pig. They require a daily brush to remove tangles––but be gentle! Guinea pigs are sensitive creatures, and if their grooming time is spent in discomfort, it can lead to stress and fearfulness. Daily guinea pig grooming should be a relaxing experience, allowing you to bond.
4. White-Crested Guinea Pigs Easily Learn Tricks
One of my favorite guinea pig breeds has got to be the white-crested. While they may not have amazing curls or luscious locks, the white patch or crest on top of their heads is just adorable! The white-crested guinea pig is recognized by the American Cavy Breeders Association as quite rare. Also known as the American crested, this breed was only registered in 1974. These guinea pigs can be pretty shy and need some coaxing to build their confidence. Much like other breeds, white-crested guinea pigs are smart, and with time you can teach them a few tricks. Guinea pigs can be taught to jump through hoops or stand on their hind legs to beg for food.
In terms of grooming, white-crested pigs don’t require daily brushing because they have quite short hair. You should still brush them at least twice a week to keep their fur clean and sparkling, but this cavy breed doesn’t experience matting. Always check their bottoms for dirt and clean any soiled fur to avoid blockages and infections.
5. Teddy Guinea Pigs Have Short, Plush Fur
The teddy guinea pig breed comes from South America and grows to a length of 12 inches. They are characterized by their soft and plush fur, which is quite short, making grooming a breeze. If your teddy guinea pig spends time outside, always look for dirt, dry grass, and twigs that get stuck in their fur. Simply remove the debris and give them a weekly brush to maintain healthy skin and coat.
When it comes to personality, teddies are social animals that need friends. This cavy can suffer from loneliness and prefers companionship with other mild-tempered guinea pigs. An interesting relative of the standard teddy cavy is the teddy satin guinea pig. When compared to teddies, the satin breed has a tightly curled coat and needs frequent grooming, including a special guinea pig bath, to stay clean.
When you’re ready to get a new pet cavy, consider the five most unique guinea pig breeds with their exotic looks and exquisite personalities. Whether the long-locked Peruvian or the cute and cuddly teddy, there’s a lot more to pet guinea pigs than you could ever imagine.
