American Guinea Pig Breeds

Experts believe it was first domesticated around 5000 bc in the andes.

American guinea pig breeds. There are many breeds of guinea pig or cavy which have been developed since its domestication circa 5000 bce. The american guinea pig is the most common breed among the guinea pigs. These varieties vary in hair and color composition. American guinea pigs typically develop the same health problems that occur in other guinea pig breeds.

Types of guinea pig breeds 1. The most common varieties found in pet stores are the english shorthair also known as the american which have a short smooth coat and the abyssinian whose coat is ruffled with cowlicks or rosettes. By european traders on south american expeditions. We have raised a few american guinea pigs ourselves and out of all the breeds we ve had the pleasure to raise we can say that they are.

A small breed such as the american guinea hog may be the best choice for. Guinea pigs are great pets to have and there a several different breeds to choose from. There are two types one is the white crested guinea pig also called american crested where the crest is white in contrast with the rest of the coat there s no white on the body. Breeds vary widely in appearance and purpose ranging from show breeds with long flowing hair to laboratory breeds being used as model organisms for science from roughly 1200 to 1532 ce the spanish conquest of the inca empire selective breeding by indigenous south american people.

They were brought to the u k. Eventually guinea pigs were brought over to europe where royals like queen elizabeth i bought them as pets. The american is the oldest and most popular guinea pig. Some breeds produce large amounts of meat 130 to 150 pounds per pig which may be too much for a small family s needs.

This breed is very soft in nature and they get along easily with other pigs. The american guinea pig breeds are descendants of the south american tschudi guinea pig breeds. It is the breed that anyone would imagine when the name guinea pig is referred to. They include dental problems heatstroke vitamin c deficiency respiratory problems abscesses trauma and more.

Domesticated guinea pigs occur in many breeds which have been developed since their introduction to europe and north america. Crested guinea pig freedom. These conditions are likely what sends a guinea pig to the veterinarian. They are very loveable and friendly towards children as well.

American guinea pig temperament. The american cavy originated from the andes of western south american. Check out our guide of guinea pig breeds to learn more about physical traits behavior and grooming needs.