The Silkie/sheltie Guinea pig

• Posted on 7 December 2024
• By DRD Knaagdierwinkel
• Posted in Guinea Pig
• 0

The Silkie guinea pig, also known as the Sheltie guinea pig, is one of the most elegant caviar breeds thanks to its long, silky coat. This unique guinea pig is not only beautiful to look at, but also has specific care needs. In this blog we take you into the fascinating world of the Silkie guinea pig. From the origin and appearance to extensive care tips: everything you need to know about this special breed is discussed.

The Silkie Guinea Pig - A Gentle Beauty from the Guinea Pig World

Origin of the Silkie Guinea Pig

The Silkie guinea pig originates from England, where this breed was developed in the 1970s by crossing Peruvians with other long-haired guinea pigs. The goal of this cross was to create a guinea pig with a smooth, backward-growing coat without bangs. This unique appearance quickly made the Silkie popular among breeders and enthusiasts worldwide.

The name "Silkie" refers to the texture of the coat, which is silky and shiny. In the Netherlands, this guinea pig is often called Sheltie, but both names refer to the same breed.

The Appearance of the Silkie Guinea Pig

The most striking feature of the Silkie guinea pig is of course its coat. It grows long, smooth and straight back, without vertebrae or crests on the body. This makes it look like the guinea pig is wearing a luxurious, flowing coat.

• Head: Round and compact, with large, expressive eyes.
• Coat: Long, silky and always shiny. Unlike the Peruvian, the coat grows completely away from the face.
• Colors: Silkies come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including solid shades such as black or white, as well as unusual patterns such as agouti or tortoiseshell.
• Size: An adult Silkie grows to an average length of 20-30 cm and weighs between 800 and 1200 grams.

Their majestic appearance makes the Silkie a popular show animal, but also a favorite with enthusiasts who would like to have a beautiful guinea pig as a pet.

Behavior and Character

Besides their impressive appearance, Silkies are known for their gentle and friendly nature. They are generally calm and enjoy interacting with their owner. This makes them ideal for families with children, provided that the children learn to handle them gently.

Although they are sociable, Silkies can be a little shy at first. With patience and love, however, they develop a strong bond with their owner.

Caring for a Silkie Guinea Pig

Because the Silkie guinea pig is a long-haired breed, it requires more grooming than short-haired guinea pigs. Here are some tips to keep your Silkie healthy and happy:

1. Coat care

The coat is the most distinguishing feature of the Silkie, but also one of the most important points of attention.

• Daily brushing: Use a soft brush or metal comb to prevent tangles and remove loose hair.
• Regular clipping: The coat around the hindquarters and legs can get dirty quickly. Keep it short to prevent hygiene problems.
• Special shampoos: If your Silkie is really dirty, use a mild shampoo specifically for guinea pigs. Avoid drying out the skin by bathing too often.

2. Nutrition

A healthy diet is essential for the overall condition of your Silkie.

• Hay: Available in unlimited quantities, as it aids in good digestion and dental care.
• Vegetables: Fresh vegetables such as peppers, endive and cucumber every day.
• Vitamin C: Guinea pigs do not produce this themselves. Therefore, give pellets enriched with vitamin C or a supplement.
• Pellets: Choose a quality food without added sugars or colourings.

3. Housing

A Silkie guinea pig needs space to run around and get rid of its energy.

• Guinea pig cage : Minimum 120 x 60 cm, but bigger is always better.
• Bedding for long-haired Guinea pigs : Use dust-free materials such as cotton or paper, so that the long fur stays clean. Avoid sawdust, because this quickly sticks to the fur.
• Hiding Places and Toys : Silkies love sheltered places and simple toys like tunnels or cardboard boxes.

4. Health and Control

• Nails: Regular cutting with special nail scissors prevents discomfort and overgrowth.
• Teeth: Check that the teeth are not too long. Provide hay and safe gnawing material to keep the teeth in good condition.
• Ears and skin: Look for signs of parasites , irritation or infections.

Silkie vs. Other Longhaired Breeds

Although the Silkie looks like other long-haired breeds such as the Peruvian at first glance, there are clear differences. The Silkie has a smooth coat without bangs, while the Peruvian has bangs and crests. The Texel guinea pig is another long-haired variant, but this one has curly hair instead of smooth locks.

Each breed has its own charm, but the Silkie is often chosen for its easier-to-maintain coat and soft appearance.

Is a Silkie Guinea Pig Right for You?

A Silkie guinea pig is an excellent choice for enthusiasts who are willing to spend a little extra time on care. Their calm nature, combined with their stunning appearance, makes them ideal for both beginners and experienced guinea pig owners.

Do you already have a Silkie guinea pig or are you planning to buy one? Share your experiences and photos in the comments. We are curious about your soft friend!