A Full List of Guinea Pig Breeds, From Classic American to Fluffy Teddy

With a coat type more unusual than other types, Texel guinea pigs have a medium-length, fluffy, curly coat. Texel guinea pigs are a cross breed between a Silkie and Rex guinea pig. Their dense fur is prone to tangles and matting so they require coat maintenance pretty much every day. Their fur should be curly all over, including their stomach, and is typically parted along the middle of their back.

Breeds Recognized by the American Cavy Breeders Association

This breed of guinea pig is known for the numerous cowlicks, formally called rosettes, that cover their bodies. Ideally, an Abyssinian will have six to eight open standing rosettes that are evenly spaced across their body. What breed is the friendliest guinea pig? Abyssinians are also known to be one of the more vocal, friendly, and energetic guinea pig breeds. Abyssinian Guinea Pig Abyssinian guinea pig breed

Abyssinian Satin Guinea Pig

Abyssinian Satins are very similar to Abyssinian guinea pigs, with the largest difference being the satin sheen of their shiny fur. This can make the colors and patterns of their rosettes appear even more striking. Their glossy fur is what gives them their name, however, the breeding of this variety brings a gene that makes these type of guinea pigs prone to many health problems and shorter life span. This might be a breed you come across if you are around guinea pig rescues. Abyssinian Satin Guinea Pig abyssinian fun fact

American Guinea Pig

This type of guinea pig is the most commonly-owned, likely thanks to their sweet and docile personalities. Their short and smooth coats can come in 19 different color classifications and should have no cowlicks or rosettes. They have a matte appearance and generally need less grooming than other types of guinea pigs. American Guinea Pigs are a great breed to choose when it comes to first time pet owners.

American Satin Guinea Pig

Just like the Satin version of most breeds, the American Satin is nearly identical to the American guinea pigs. The most obvious difference in their appearance is that their smooth, short coat, void of rosettes is also shiny. Just like Abyssinian Satin Guinea Pigs, they are prone to many health concerns and deformities. This breed is great for people who are ready and are patient with caring for special needs piggies.

Coronet Guinea Pig

Most easily identified by their voluminous, flowing mane, Coronet guinea pigs have quite the appearance. Their long fur grows mostly backward except for one single rosette on the top of their head, hence their name. Thankfully, this breed loves playing and receiving attention, because their coat needs to be regularly brushed and maintained.

Peruvian Guinea Pig

The Peruvian guinea pig’s are another breed with longer hair. Their coat is certainly impressive if not enviable. Their smooth, straight fur grows from back to front along a center part and can grow up to two feet long! Despite two rosettes, one over the hindquarters and one on the head, their mature coat usually covers their face and requires frequent grooming and trimming. Peruvian Guinea Pig

Peruvian Satin Guinea Pig

The coat of a Peruvian Satin guinea pig is equally impressive as the standard Peruvian breed. Added to its long beautiful coat is a satin sheen, evident through the middle part along the back down the length of the fur. Unfortunately, like all satin breeds, they come with many health concerns and need patient and loving care.

Silkie Guinea Pig

Silkie guinea pigs, sometimes also known as Shelties, have a soft, luxurious curtain of fur. Their fur is naturally parted down the middle of their back and guided away from their face, unlike Peruvian guinea pigs. Their fur is slightly longer along their hindquarters. Silkies have no parts or rosettes in their fur, and should ideally, have a teardrop body confirmation when viewed from above.

Silkie Satin Guinea Pig

Just like the standard Sheltie, Silkie Satins may also go by the name of Sheltie Satin. Their coat grows from front to back with no center part, and thanks to no rosettes, their hair is quite straight and smooth. This breed is like other satin breeds in which they exhibit health issues, including bone and dental complications.

Teddy Guinea Pig

Unlike other guinea pig breeds with smooth, sleek fur, Teddy guinea pigs have a short, dense coat that stands up out from their body. Their plush coat is resilient to the touch, and greatly resembles a teddy bear, hence their name. This fun, fluffy appearance suits their loving and playful nature and allows for only periodic grooming and maintenance.

Teddy Satin Guinea Pig

Teddy Satin guinea pigs, similarly, have a short, plush coat which gives them a bear-like appearance. Their dense fur, which stands away from their body, has a bright, satin sheen. This type of guinea pig breed needs patience and love, as they may come with many health concerns.

Texel Guinea Pig

With a coat type more unusual than other types, Texel guinea pigs have a medium-length, fluffy, curly coat. Texel guinea pigs are a cross breed between a Silkie and Rex guinea pig. Their dense fur is prone to tangles and matting so they require coat maintenance pretty much every day. Their fur should be curly all over, including their stomach, and is typically parted along the middle of their back. Texel guinea pig breed

White Crested Guinea Pig

This short-haired breed can come in a variety of colors and is most recognizable by its single white whorl or rosette on its forehead. They are considered to be very closely related to their cousin, American guinea pig breed, as they short coats. White Crested guinea pigs should have short, smooth fur, and in show cavies, the rest of the coat’s color must be a different solid other than white.

Hairless Guinea Pig Breeds

Baldwin Guinea Pig

This breed guinea pig is completely hairless, thanks to a genetic mutation in a white-crested golden agouti. They are the largest of the hairless guinea pigs and often live longer as well. Since so much of their skin is exposed, special care should be provided to keep them clean, reduce irritations, and avoid wounds. Always be sure to keep easy to clean guinea pig bedding, like GuineaDad Liners, so they can live in a warm and clean environment.

Skinny Guinea Pig

Although Skinny Guinea Pigs are also classified as hairless, they tend to have hair on their muzzles, legs, feet, and sometimes along their back. They tend to be smaller and live shorter lives compared to other hairless guinea pigs. Being hairless means that they require special consideration such as specialized skincare, avoiding direct sunlight, and having access to a warm and soft GuineaDad Liner at all times. Skinny Guinea Pig Popular Guinea pig breeds

Miscellaneous Guinea Pig Breeds

Alpaca Guinea Pig

Often considered one of the most beautiful breeds, Alpaca guinea pigs have dense, curly fur. Although it isn’t super long, their coat is prone to tangling, so it will need to be brushed regularly. Because of its coarse nature, their fur should feel plush, and springy to the touch when properly groomed. The Alpaca breed can live up to eight years!

Lunkarya Guinea Pig

This breed actually carries three variations: Lunkarya Peruvian, Lunkarya Sheltie, and Lunkarya Coronet. They all boast a long, curly coat that cascades in all directions, giving them a mop-like appearance. Because their fur is so thick, “Lunks” don’t do well in heat, and require daily grooming.

Rex Guinea Pig

Rather than a typical guinea pig appearance, Rex guinea pigs look more like a chinchilla. Their fur is short and similar in texture to wool, making it much more manageable than breeds with long fur. Additionally, their large droopy ears and desire to be handled make them stand out even more. rex guinea pig breed

Sheba Guinea Pig

While lots of guinea pig breeds have unique fur, Sheba guinea pigs have long mutton chops which frame their face. The odd way their fur sticks out without a true part gives them the nickname “Bad Hair Day” guinea pig. Although they will need regular maintenance to care for their coat, it grows slower than other long-haired breeds. Sheba guinea pig breed Now that you’ve read a brief description on each breed of guinea pig, it’s a good idea to go and read our blog posts on the individual breeds, as well as learn about the kinds of care and maintenance that they require, especially if you’re thinking of owning one yourself!

A Full List of Guinea Pig Breeds, From Classic American to Fluffy Teddy

They’ve all got sparkling personalities, and are cute to boot.

Guinea Pig breeds

Guinea pigs may not be spoken about as often as dogs or cats, but trust us, they make the perfect pets. While the American Cavy Breeders Association (ACBA) recognizes 13 different breeds, several other guinea pigs exist and are sought after for their rarity. If you’re considering adopting one or your curiosity has been sparked, we have all you need to know.

Guinea Pig Basics

Guinea Pig Breeds American on Pumpkin with Yellow Flowers

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Originally coming from the Andes in South America, these gentle animals love spending time with their owners, exploring, and being groomed. It’s recommended to adopt two or more guinea pigs at the same time because of their social nature. It’s also important to find the right bedding and make sure they’re getting enough vitamin C.

Abyssinian Guinea Pig

Guinea Pig Breeds Abyssinian Eating Carrots

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The Abyssinian is a great choice for first-time owners because of its extremely affectionate personality. It requires only a bit of training in its eight-year lifespan. Recognize one by spotting eight symmetrical swirls (formally called rosettes), giving it a messy hairdo. You can also adopt the Abyssinian Satin breed which has a glossy fur.

Alpaca Guinea Pig

Considered one of the most beautiful breeds, Alpacas have wavy, coarse fur. Daily brushing and de-tangling is needed, making this breed a bit high maintenance. Although it isn’t officially recognized by the ACBA, an Alpaca can live up to eight years.

American Guinea Pig

As the most common breed, the American Guinea Pig by default wins the popularity contest. They are known for their great temperament and also get along well with other piggies. Its short, smooth coat makes it easy to take of, particularly for children.

Baldwin Guinea Pig

Hairless guineas can be spotted a mile away. There are two to choose from: Skinny and Baldwin. The Baldwin is completely hairless and can live to celebrate its sixth birthday. This breed is encouraged to be adopted by individuals who truly appreciate their special look. A Baldwin should live indoors, not be exposed to direct sunlight, and have a warm blanket nearby at all times. The ACBA doesn’t recognized it.

Coronet Guinea Pig

A Coronet can be identified by its flowing, voluminous mane that doesn’t have a part. This sweet ball of fur craves attention and easily attracts it with its curious personality and playful behavior. If you’re considering adopting one, make sure you set aside time every day to brush its beautiful coat.

Himalayan Guinea Pig

Himalayans are considered the Siamese cats of the guinea pig world. This albino breed has a white coat with brown or black coloring on its ears, feet, and nose. This breed is recommended for people who live in a colder climate, and away from sun. When a Himalayan is put in direct sunlight or in hot weather, their dark spots fade. This also happens if the guinea is sick, shocked, or scared. They do best indoors and can live up to seven years. The breed isn’t officially recognized by the ACBA.

Lunkarya Guinea Pig

Also known as the Lunk, this guinea pig has long, rough curls. Because of the fur’s thickness, it doesn’t do well in extreme heat and shouldn’t be near direct sun. Lunks are a curious breed that enjoy being held and can live up to eight years. The ACBA doesn’t recognize it.

Merino Guinea Pig

Merinos are an intelligent breed who enjoy exploring. It’s ideal to provide a large cage and even roaming time around your home (supervised, of course!). Because of its affectionate nature, it’s a popular choice for owners, but not officially recognized.

Peruvian Guinea Pig

The Peruvian’s coat is the envy among all the breeds. The smooth, straight fur can grow as long as 2 feet! The soft, thick fur needs dedicated grooming time and an occasional trim. The coat also grows forward over its head, giving it a sweet fringe. This breed is known to be alert and curious, often greeting visitors who stop by its cage. A Peruvian Satin breed also exists.

Rex Guinea Pig

The Rex has short, wool-like fur and is a big hit with children. Its droopy ears are a unique feature that make it look even more lovable. This breed likes to be held close and petted. With those curly whiskers, who could resist! It isn’t recognized by the ACBA.

Sheba Guinea Pig

The Sheba, formally known as the Sheba Mini Yak, is affectionally called the “Bad Hair Day” guinea pig. There will always be time for bonding thanks to its dense fur that requires daily maintenance. It isn’t officially recognized by the ACBA.

Silkie Guinea Pig

The Silkie (also named the Sheltie) has long locks which only grow backwards. Discovered in the 1970s by breeders in the UK, they are described as being the most gentle breed with laid back personalities. Because of the extensive grooming needs, they should only be cared for by adults. A Silkie Satin is another breed that can be found.

Skinny Guinea Pig

The Skinny is part of the hairless guinea pigs, despite having a few furry spots on its back, legs, and feet. It can live for more than four years and it needs another guinea companion to be happy. Although no grooming is necessary, its exposed skin needs a lot of care to avoid wounds or irritations. If this exotic piggy tugs at your heartstrings, make sure to find the right blanket and bedding. It’s not officially recognized by the ACBA.

Teddy Guinea Pig

Nicknamed after the famous stuffed animal, the Teddy is an easier breed to keep up with. Its short, dense coat only needs a brushing once in a while. This breed make a playful, loving partner for children. Being social with other piggies is in their DNA, but you may need to watch how they react to sharing a cage. Teddy Satin guinea pigs can also be adopted.

Texel Guinea Pig

Texels are a rare cross breed between a Silkie and a Rex. Tangling will happen with their fur, and it can be difficult to take care of. They are known for winning first place at shows, but they make great pets as well.

White-Crested Guinea Pig

The white crown atop of its head gave the breed its name. It can be considered the cousin of the American — sharing a short, smooth coat. They are shy, but smart creatures. Don’t be surprised if yours quickly learns when it’s time to eat or even recognizes your voice.

Selena is the entertainment and news editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers the latest on TV, movies and celebrities. In addition to writing and editing entertainment news, she also spotlights the Hispanic and Latinx community through her work. She is a graduate of CUNY Hunter College with a B.A. in journalism and creative writing.