Cavia porcellus, guinea pig or guinea pig, keiwi - it's all about the guinea pig, a small domesticated rodent called "pig" for its distinctive sounds.
Representatives of the most popular marine speciespigs reach 25-30 cm in length and weigh from 1 kg to 1.5 kg. Live animals from 5 to 7 years. A description of some of the many breeds of guinea pigs with photos and names will be given in the text of the article.
Why in ancient times domesticated rodents?
В это трудно поверить, но морские свинки были domesticated more than 7 thousand years ago. It happened in the countries of South America, in the mountains of the Andes. In those days, the guinea pig was a dish on the table of the South American tribes.
With animals carried out breeding work, and toAt the time of the appearance on the continent of the conquistadors of the varieties of guinea pigs was a lot. In the middle of the XVI century, the guinea pig gets to Europe, and not just anywhere, but to the royal family, where it becomes the favorite of Elizabeth I of England. Further, the guinea pig is becoming increasingly popular and ceases to be "food".
The portrait of the XVI century depicts the children of a rich English noble family. One of the boys holds a bird in his hands, and in the hands of the girl a guinea pig is depicted.
Since the 1540s, about 20 breeds have been bred.Guinea pigs, with photos and the names of some of them can be found in this article. Crossing of pigs was aimed at obtaining animals of unusual appearance.
Why are guinea pig breeds so popular?
The secret of fame of small rodents is very simple.They are incredibly cute and unpretentious for keeping at home. Guinea pigs are easier to follow than a wayward cat and a playful dog. The animal does not need to walk, comb and wash it much easier than a large animal. A significant role is played by the lower cost of keeping the pig.
Make sure the animals are cutejust look at the photo of the family of a popular breed of guinea pigs, the name Satine. Satin pigs are so charming that more than once and not two participated in the filming of children's films in the lead roles.
A variety of guinea pig breeds
Although the breeds of pigs very much recognizedonly 13 counts are considered. Guinea pig breed descriptions, exterior, and standards for the assessment of individuals have been developed. Guinea pig shows are held in Europe and many others.
All 13 breeds are recognized not only by European standards, but also by the American Pig Breeders Association.
In addition to recognized breeds, there are a numberGuinea pig species for which there are no standards. The unrecognized varieties of guinea pigs include: Harlequin, Baldwin, Belted, Panda, Ridgeback, Skinny, Soroka. These breeds are considered rare, individuals of the species were the result of unsuccessful attempts at crossing. Rare breeds are not popular with professional breeders.
After one of the attempts to mix different types ofpigs appeared a strange mutation. Cubs are born hairy, but with maturation they completely lose their hair. You can get acquainted with the description and photo of the breed of guinea pigs with the name Baldwin below.
Since Baldwin is completely bald and artificiallybreed, its individuals require special care. Guinea pigs do not tolerate cold or heat and are not adapted to outdoor living. Animals can burn in the sun, as they have very delicate silky skin.
Breed Description American Guinea Pigs
American breed or English Kevy is one ofmost famous and popular in the world. The animals of the American breed have smooth and short hair. The color may be different, but more often there are multi-colored individuals.
American pig breed will be a great pet for a child. The animal has a calm character. Pigs are picky and do not require special care for the fur.
Живой и веселый зверек прекрасно уживается с decorative rabbits and their own relatives. It is worth noting that in nature mumps are social animals, so they love to communicate with people and love affection and attention. They are able to show even a certain attachment to the owner.
Peruvian Guinea Pig - breed description
Efforts of professional razvodchikov on removalnew breeds of animals sometimes lead to unexpected results. First you should get acquainted with the photo of the breed of guinea pigs and the name of this amazing animal.
The appearance of animals is more like decorativerabbits, rather than guinea pigs, lack only hanging ears and a round tail. Peruvian pigs are known for their long and silky to the touch coat. This breed is very fond of breeders and individuals can often be found at international exhibitions of guinea pigs.
Long-haired guinea pig breed, reviews aboutwhich is not the most flattering, not the best choice for a lazy or inexperienced host. The hair of the Peruvian pigs can grow up to 50 cm, so animals require daily combing and hair care, otherwise rubbish accumulates in the wool. Also, representatives of the species are very active, require a lot of space for games and the attention of the owner.
Description of the Abyssinian Guinea Pigs
Abyssinian - the oldest and widely known breed of pigs. The pig of this particular breed became the pet of Elizabeth I of England in the 16th century.
Abyssin pigs are famous for their incredibly thick fur. Wool grows in bunches - rosettes located throughout the body.
Incredibly energetic and inquisitive, little animalsare real individualists with their own character and habits. Animal fur requires mandatory brushing 2-3 times a week. Abyssinians need a spacious cage and regular walks in the fresh air.
Breed description Coronet
Coronet pigs are very similar to guinea pigs.Sheltie Both breeds are famous for their unusual long hair. Coronet beasts have one big hair growth socket on their heads. Due to the tuft looks piggy fun. Below is a photo of the animal.
Like all long-haired gilts requires daily care. If the animal does not participate in exhibitions, wool can be trimmed. The length of the animal's hair for the exhibition must be at least 15 cm.
Description breed Merino
The breed Merino is obtained by crossing Coronet Guinea Pigs. A short curly coat grows throughout the body of the animal.
Like the Coronet Pig, Merino is very active.breed. For their maintenance will require a large cage with a large number of tunnels, squeaking toys and balls. Pigs Merino enjoy the attention and affection of the owners. Guinea pig hair is noticeably shorter than that of the Coronet, but also requires regular care.
Breed description Texel
Texel is from England, pigs are a hybridSheltie Representatives of the species have a large round head and long curly hair all over their body. It is very difficult to care for the fur of guinea pigs, therefore it is not recommended to give them to children.
In addition to combing, animals need regular grooming, trimming claws and cleaning the ears. Pets also need to be washed regularly with shampoo, otherwise the wool will have an unpleasant smell.
For the rest, Texel guinea pigs do not differ from other breeds. They are energetic, curious, attached to the owner, funny in tricks and beautiful.
Breed description White Crested
Guinea pigs of the White Crested breed got theirthe name for the characteristic for all individuals white crest on the forehead. The most common colors of animals - it is a monochromatic red, rarely found other options.
Animals are unpretentious in care and requirecombing once a week. Crested are very modest pigs, they are not as arrogant and curious as pigs of other breeds. Also, the animals show exceptional intelligence, memorize the words for feeding and games, can distinguish the voices of the owners.
White Crested will be an excellent choice for people of age and families who, for whatever reason, are afraid to start large pets.
Guinea Pigs Breeding Tips
In one litter, guinea pigs range from 3 to 8cubs Like all rodents, pigs are very sexually active and can produce offspring 3 times a year. Individuals carry cubs for 2 months. Toddlers grow very quickly and in 3-4 months become fully grown up.
При скрещивании необходимо обратиться к special literature and find out the compatibility of species and animal coloring. The books describe the possible and undesirable consequences of mixing rocks, and do not neglect such valuable information.
Immediately after purchase and before breeding the animalneed to show the vet. Do not forget that the beloved pet is primarily an animal that can tolerate dangerous diseases. Therefore, visits to veterinary clinics should be regular, it will not only protect family members from diseases, but will benefit the mumps itself.
