Guest Speaker Blog

Today we have the amazing Racheal from @Guineapiggardens writing a blog all about those wonderful Sheltie Piggies.

You can see more of Racheal’s posts here: https://www.facebook.com/Guineapigstsv

🐹Sheltie (Silkie) Guinea Pigs 🐹

Sheltie or Silkie guinea pigs (as some call them) are a straight, long haired breed of guinea pig which developed back in the 1970’s. They come in a variety of colours, are are a more petite breed & can live between 5-7 years on average. They’re hair is extremely soft/silky & grows back along they’re bodies. It can grow up to 24inches long if cared for properly. This means they take more time to care for on a daily basis & are considered a ‘high maintenance’ breed. 💇‍♀️

To keep this breed in good condition you will need to brush them daily, trim the hair regularly (if your not growing it out), clean the ear wax regularly that will develop due to the long hair in/around the ears & keep this breed housed indoors. If you do not provide regular grooming to your Sheltie/Silkie guinea pigs it’s hair will matte & you may need to cut clumps out. This breed is also more susceptible to heat stroke.

In terms of personality, as with all guinea pigs the more time you put into them, the more you will get out. Generally people who own this breed describe them as shy & gentle. This breed can be very quick & slow to warm up to you but once familiar they will be wonderful. ☺️