Peruvian Guinea Pig — breed guide

At a glance

Group

longhair

Size

Toy

Weight

0.7–1.4 kg (2–3 lb)

Life span

5–7 years

Coat

Floor-length silk that grows about 2.5 cm a month

Living with a Peruvian Guinea Pig

• Low energy — happy with gentle daily exercise.
• Daily grooming — this coat is a commitment.
• Moderate shedding.
• Trainable with consistency.
• Vocal when there is a reason.
• Good with children.
• Not always easy with other dogs — introduce carefully.
• Only with secure housing and no unsupervised contact with a cat.
• Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
• Better with previous experience behind you.
• Struggles in heat — walk early, walk late, and watch for distress.
• Feels the cold.

Temperament

Placid · Regal · Patient

Health to watch

• Coat matting and flystrike
• Heat stress

Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.

Did you know

Show coats can pass 50 cm — pets usually get a sensible trim.

Questions people ask

Is a Peruvian Guinea Pig good with kids?

Generally yes. Peruvian Guinea Pigs are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.

Can a Peruvian Guinea Pig live in a house with a cat?

Only with care. Secure housing, separate space and no unsupervised contact — a cat's hunting instinct is not something training removes.

How much exercise does a Peruvian Guinea Pig need?

A gentle daily walk.

Can a Peruvian Guinea Pig handle hot weather?

It struggles; keep summer outings short and shaded.